Great generation: One small group can make a colossal difference

‘One small group can make a colossal difference,’ says Helena

The power of local communities never ceases to amaze me. One small group can make a colossal difference. Whether you’ve flown across the world to witness poverty first-hand or simply stayed at home and been inspired to help, everybody is welcome in changing lives.

That is why I joined my sixth form’s CAFOD team who embody the term “Great Generation”. Get involved >>

Helena (second from left, behind the table) entices potential buyers at a cake sale for CAFOD

Over the last 10 months, we have baked cakes, paraded around college with overflowing buckets of water and taught primary school children about international poverty, all in the name of CAFOD. Led by Geography teacher Ellie Turner, we strive to raise both money and awareness. The last year has been so busy, not one of us can pinpoint our favourite moment.

“The entire experience has been really rewarding,” enthuses my peer, Emily Sanders. “I’ve loved every minute of it!”

Having said this, a clear highlight of the year was meeting LemLem, an Ethiopian partner of CAFOD. She gave us an insight into the significance of our fundraising. After recalling her life story – which saw her acquire a degree in engineering – she outlined her work in supplying water to the poverty-ridden towns of Ethiopia. Meeting LemLem was a truly humbling experience – one that will resonate with me for life.
LemLem’s blog >>

Some very stylish water droplets at the ‘Thirst for change’ fashion show

A very creative fashion show was yet another highlight of the year. As a “Thirst for Change” campaign, we set about bringing CAFOD to the catwalk.  Teaming up with the Fairtrade department, there was a whole array of costumes on display, including some very flamboyant raindrop costumes. Essentially, the aim of the evening was to raise a grand sum of money for those deprived of clean water. Not only was the event a success, but we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves!

The “Thirst for Change” campaign also presented numerous opportunities. For example, we filmed messages for the government, pressuring them to provide clean water for under-developed countries. In addition, a select few ran in the 10k Great Manchester run. As 18 students and five teachers from Cardinal Newman College set off on Sunday 20th May, those remaining encouraged and sponsored them.
Join a sponsored run>>

Months after the Thirst for Change campaign, CAFOD has looked back on its effectivenes. This link explains how we all made a difference! http://www.cafod.org.uk/news/campaigns-news/thirst-2012-06-15

Cardinal Newman College of Preston is living proof that charity does in fact begin at home. Working from a small base, we achieve so much from so few resources. Student Eliza Hughes summarises the group’s feelings: “We’re like one, big, dysfunctional family”. It is for this reason I urge anybody to explore their local CAFOD branch for gratifying results.

About the author: Helena Kelly is this month’s Great Generation enews editor.  She was introduced to CAFOD at a young age. As an A-level student, she joined Cardinal Newman College’s charitable team in Preston. From bake sales to fashion shows, she regularly raise both money and awareness for CAFOD.