A new generation of animal welfare supporters has emerged after an entire school voted to get behind SAFE and help the animals. Students at Mt Pleasant School in Christchurch were set a task to make a difference in their community. Teacher Matthew Taylor said the children were given the topic of ‘making a difference,' with the aim of "thinking outside the square."
All of the children felt strongly about animals so after looking at various animal welfare groups they voted to help SAFE. After consultation with SAFE's education officer Nichola Kriek the class decided the best way to help the organisation was to organise a fair. "The kids did this all themselves, we just gave them the resources," she said. Those resources did not include financial help however, as the students were required to manage the event themselves. Local businesses donated everything from a bouncy castle to giveaway prizes that included sweets and movie tickets. Parents happily donated items for a garage sale, while students took a more creative approach to raise funds by busking, making an obstacle course and offering the ‘soak-the-teacher' game, which was extremely popular. Mr Taylor said he was impressed with the positive ideas and strategies the children had, despite some ideas not working out. "We had to make sure it was appropriate for SAFE. They had to find out what the concept of exploitation meant and discuss it with the whole class." Nichola was also impressed at the effort the children went to for SAFE. "The students...not only made a great effort to help animals, but ensured their fair was cruelty free and animal-friendly." This even included sourcing face paint that had not been tested on animals. Over $900 was raised at the fair, with the proceeds going towards creating more awareness of animal welfare issues. "They did more than just raising money for animals, they were also raising awareness," she said.
21 February 2009
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