Epsom College in Malaysia recently donated RM 15,000 to the Chandbagh School in Kathmandu where at least 150 members of the school community were affected by the disaster.
Epsom College has applied for membership into Round Square, www.roundsquare.org, an organization of like-minded schools that is committed to equipping youth for leadership and service by helping them to prepare for life. The organization had its first opportunity to demonstrate its ideals following a devastating earthquake in the Greek Islands in 1954. So it seemed only fitting that Epsom College should react quickly to support another Round Square school, The Chandbagh School which has experienced first-hand loss of dear ones and homes in its community.
“The Charity Committee also wanted to ensure the money raised went straight to a traceable organization and not into a ‘big pot’. By sending the money raised directly to Chandbagh School, the students are able to keep us updated on where the money is being used, with food and shelter being the first priorities,” said Suzanne Kuster, the Round Square Coordinator at the College.
A college-wide response to worldwide disasters is one aspect of the Charity Charter at the college. Epsom College maintains local long-term charity projects, but is always prepared for unfortunate incidents such as this. Fund raising is an ongoing process and a part of the college life. The aim is to create a fund of money that is always ready for incidents such as the Nepalese earthquake.
“We were able to respond rapidly as we maintain a fund for such incidents. We raise funds in numerous ways and these activities are continuous”, said Ian Squires, the Chair of the Charity Committee.
The effort was coordinated by the Charity Committee, whilst pupils from Early Years to the Sixth Form designed and undertook the fund raising. Some of the activities carried out to raise funds this year included non-uniform days, a 146-meter Prep School coin line, the sale of roses for Valentine’s Day by the Sixth Formers, a sponsored swim, busking, movie nights, bakes sales and stocks and sponges.
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These activities are student-led and it is important that they raise money through positive actions. Donating time, effort and ideas are as important as the financial element.
Epsom College believes its students have a moral responsibility to those in their own community and beyond. It is a very important part of their education. Raising funds and helping to allocate them develops a social awareness and important leadership skills. Academic results without developing empathy for those around would be an incomplete education. Developing a strong moral compass and selflessness are values that rightly underpin all the work Epsom College undertakes.
“As a community we realize that we are in a fortunate position. Therefore, it is our social responsibility to support others when need arises. Selflessness is a core value here and our response to the earthquake in Nepal is an extension of this,” added Ian Squires.
