As a sponsor, we are invited to visit many new and worthwhile projects during the year, but our first introduction to Observatory Primary will always be a memorable one for me.
We found ourselves in a cosy little classroom, which was named ‘The Shine Centre’. Learners were huddled in little corners or sections with their ‘volunteeer mentors”, enjoying a session of reading, or playing educational board games with their volunteer. The vibe was relaxed, yet concentration prevailed and each group or pair were totally absorbed in what they were doing.
We were so taken with this concept that we decided there and then that this was one of the areas at the school which we, as a Company, would like to get involved with and support. Based on our”hands-on” strategy and to get more of an understanding of how the centre operates, I decided to volunteer an hour a week myself, and really get the ‘feel’ of the benefits this centre offers.
The last year has been so rewarding for me, getting to know “Candice” – a gentle, grade 3 learner, and noting her progress. The centre has grown, with 48 volunteers and 78 learners receiving assistance, I have met some wonderful people through this initiative. Maurita has been amazing and keeps us all updated and enthused!
Sadly I will not be able to continue as a volunteer, due to work commitments, but will continue to visit and be involved with the Shine Centre and the school in other ways.
I would like to take this opportunity of thanking Mrs Naidoo, Maurita Weissenberg and all who are involved with this wonderful initiative for the amazing work which they are doing, and last but not least, would like to thank Candice for working so hard on her reading and being such a star with those puzzles!
Gail Moffat
Social Involvement Manager
Truworths
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