OVER 1,600 students from Marist College Canberra participated in their 2015 Walkathon this August, an annual event that has been run by Marist College for 25 years.
The 2015 Walkathon had a social justice focus, with funds being raised directed to two worthy causes, one being the St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn.
Today Richard Sidorko, Headmaster of Marist College Canberra, presented the St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn with a cheque for $30,000 which will go towards the Society’s Night Patrol service.
“I sincerely congratulate the entire Marist Canberra community for their efforts to make this year’s Walkathon such a raging success,” Richard said.
“It was wonderful to see our boys respond so positively to the change in focus for our fundraising efforts.
“To be in a position to give the St Vincent de Paul Society Night Patrol service $30,000 is a wonderful achievement, which our entire community should celebrate and be proud of. It further demonstrates the authenticity that exists at Marist, whereby the actions of our boys match the rhetoric around the important place that service to others has in our community. Reaching out and assisting those most vulnerable in our community is something that encapsulates who we are as Marists.
Night Patrol supports people 363 days a year, annually providing over 12,200 instances of support through engagement, material and food assistance.
Nearly 200 dedicated volunteers provide their time and effort to operate the Night Patrol service.
“The support provided by Night Patrol extends beyond just providing a sandwich and a hot drink. Something as simple as being seen and being heard by someone provides support on a more personal level,” said Frank Brassil, President of the St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn.
“Seeing such a large group of young people come together and raise funds for Night Patrol is really indicative of how important youth are in providing a voice for social justice.”
Night Patrol receives no government funding but relies on support from local businesses and organisations. The support provided by Marist College Canberra has ensured that the service is now fully funded until July 2016.
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