Slippers and dreams
Lasheigh Lucas
THE peer educators, a nonprofit organisation at Chapman High School, raised R2300 for National Slipper Day.
The funds were raised for the Reach for a Dream organisation.
Reach for a Dream strives to realise people's aspirations.
"Our vision is to grow the foundation, enabling us to continue giving hope through the fulfillment of dreams," an official said.
Their primary focus is on charity and socio-economic issues.
The peer educators raised the funds by having slipper day at Chapman High.
Each pupil had to pay R5 to wear either slippers or takkies.
The pupils all had different styles of slippers and enjoyed their comfortable day without school shoes. All the funds raised were handed over to Reach for a Dream on August 2.
Representative for Reach for a Dream Michelle van Hugssteen said the organisation was truly thankful for the funding from the school.
There were also inspirational speeches during the handover.
"The day was so much fun and all the learners enjoyed it. Helping charity is a big part of our lives here at Chapman High," teacher Jenie Damons said. She and pupil Nandisa Ndepha made speeches on behalf of Chapman High.
Peer educator representatives put together a spirited rap performance to liven up the crowd.
"I'm walking down the street with my slippers on my feet, as impossible as it seems I'm reaching for my dream," the song went.
"We love doing charity work and feel warmth in our hearts whenever we do something good for our community," pupil and peer educator Kaylin Jordan said on behalf of the group. The peer educators undertake a monthly mission to assist various organisations with their challenges.
Last year they helped an orphanage called The Door of Hope in Sidwell and also visited Erica House of Safety on Mandela Day.
The group also has an annual day for the elderly. "We strive to improve the school and our community at the same time," Damons said.
Last month the peer educators had a cleanup drive at the school for Mandela Day.
"Every month we try to promote awareness," Damons said. The peer educators raise funds on a monthly basis, with methods ranging from cake sales to small donations.
The group still plans more fund raising and charity work. The pupils have truly reached for their dreams and they continue making the communities' dreams come true.