BY NATHAN MORTON
Fundraising is never easy.
The organisation and effort required to raise money for good causes can sometimes be seen as a daunting task, but Elim Christian College is determined to show the incredible outcome of student involvement in the name of charity.
The school made headlines last year by raising $40,000 for World Vision and is more motivated than ever to raise the same amount in 2017.
The school’s annual talent show, held on Saturday night, is one of the various ways the school has raised money toward setting up child-friendly spaces for Syrian children in refugee camps.
Elim’s Got Talent was judged by Andy Wright from MoreFM and World Vision ambassadors Britney Marsh and Julia Budler, who witnessed first-hand the plight of millions who have been displaced from their homes as a result of conflict, war and devastation during her recent trip to Jordan.
Event organiser Karen Symons confirmed the competition raised at least $4000 toward the goal, supported by a number of local businesses who donated prizes for the event.
Student involvement is a crucial part of being able to reach the fundraising goal set out before them, she said.
“If every student raised just $40, we would reach our target [for $40,000].
“All of our school students are encouraged to take part in raising funds, especially in the 40-hour famine… and last year we encouraged students to pack a backpack of the things they love most, and live out of it for three days – because that’s the reality for Syrian refugees. They grab a bag and they go.”
Mrs Symons said the money raised by the school this year will have a strong impact on the lives of Syrian children through the work of World Vision, from providing them with school gear and morning tea for a school term to creating astro-turf sports fields for the kids.
“We love being able to help these kids in whatever way we can, and every little bit counts.
“We have so much we can give to help. If we don’t, then who will?”
