15 August 2024
Hawkes House Success in ‘Wear it Yellow’ Fundraiser: A Community Effort for Children’s Ground
This year, Hawkes House proudly participated in the “Wear it Yellow” fundraiser, a nationwide initiative to support `Children’s Ground and celebrate First Nations culture. The event offered a unique opportunity to not only raise funds for a vital cause but also to foster awareness and understanding of our shared histories. With all proceeds directed towards Children’s Ground, the event aimed to contribute to self-determination, education, health, and employment opportunities for First Nations communities.
One of the standout initiatives of the fundraiser was a baking project that brought together students from Hawkes House and the Junior School at St Peter’s College. The students were given the chance to bake Lemon Myrtle Jam Drops, a delightful treat that also served as a symbol of support for the local Indigenous business community. This cross-campus project was more than just a bake sale—it was a multifaceted effort to promote a sense of community, teach valuable skills, and support an important cause.
Students and families in the Junior School showed tremendous enthusiasm for the event, pre-ordering packets of Lemon Myrtle Jam Drops for just $5 each. The anticipation and excitement were palpable as the school community came together to support Children’s Ground. To ensure the success of the project, volunteers were sought to assist with the baking sessions, which took place on June 11th and 12th in the school’s kitchens. Under the supervision of Hawkes House staff and the Service Learning Coordinator, Ed Ruediger, the students spent their afternoons preparing the cookies, with the goal of baking up to 1,000 jam drops.
The event was not only about raising funds but also about fostering a deeper connection between the students and the cause they were supporting. By involving the students in the baking process, they gained a hands-on understanding of the importance of community service and the impact they could have on others’ lives.
The success of the fundraiser was a testament to the collective efforts of the Hawkes House community. Families played a crucial role, contributing $10 each to cover the cost of ingredients, ensuring that the project could reach its ambitious goal. The overwhelming support and participation demonstrated the community’s commitment to making a positive difference. In the end, the “Wear it Yellow” fundraiser of Hawkes House was more than just an event—it was a celebration of culture, community, and compassion. Through this initiative, students learned the value of giving back, the importance of understanding our shared history, and the power of coming together for a common cause. The funds raised will go a long way in supporting Children’s Ground, helping to create a brighter future for First Nations people.
Nahla Baroudi
Head of Hawkes House
