A.B. Paterson College’s inaugural Race for Kids challenge has raised $33,442 for Gold Coast University Hospital’s Children’s Inpatient Unit.
Don't miss out on the headlines from Partner Content. Followed categories will be added to My News.An inaugural month-long fundraising challenge at A.B. Paterson College has raised tens of thousands of dollars to support the Gold Coast University Hospital.
The Race for Kids program – believed to be a Queensland-first school fundraising initiative – encouraged students, alumni, partners and the wider community to walk, run or move at least 1km a day for the 31 days of May.
The concept was based on sustained daily participation, rather than a single event, to build momentum and a shared sense of purpose across the school community.
And the effort raised $33,442 for two causes close to hearts of the Gold Coast community, with half the proceeds directed to a major upgrade at Gold Coast University Hospital and the other to the A.B. Paterson College Foundation.
The college’s $16,721 contribution will fund the transformation of a space within the Children’s Inpatient Unit at Gold Coast University Hospital, creating a dedicated environment for young people with complex needs who require intensive daily support.
The redesigned space will include soft furnishings and flexible seating, giving children a more comfortable setting in which to stay connected and take part in their own care.
A group of the College’s highest fundraising students were able to present the cheque to representatives of the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation, alongside principal Joanne Sheehy. “When our A.B. Paterson College community comes together to give, the impact reaches far beyond our school gates,” Ms Sheehy said.
“The Gold Coast University Hospital is a place many of our students and families turn to during life’s most difficult moments, and that makes our contribution to the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation deeply personal. This is philanthropy with real meaning.”
“Through the A.B. Paterson College Foundation and initiatives like Race For Kids, our community has shown what is possible when generosity is given direction and purpose. Supporting improved care and hospital facilities for local children and families is not a small thing, and is exactly the kind of legacy we want our College to leave.”
Year 3 student Adaline Glynn was the campaign’s highest individual fundraiser, raising $4343.
“Visiting the hospital helps us understand the real impact of what we’ve achieved through Race For Kids and makes us feel hopeful that we can make a positive difference in the lives of others,” Adaline said. “Knowing that our efforts can help improve the experience of children receiving care at the hospital makes the fundraising feel even more meaningful.”
Gold Coast Hospital Foundation CEO Russell Ousley said the visit gave students a direct connection between their fundraising and its outcomes.
“Being able to connect the funds raised through Race For Kids with real outcomes for children and families in our community brings the purpose of their efforts to life,” Mr Ousley said
“We are extremely grateful for their passion and commitment to helping others in need. It truly embodies the Foundation’s ‘Care Beyond Self’ value.”
