Eversdal Primary celebrated its 50th year in a special way by raising more than R358 000 to support organisations making a difference in the lives of children, families and vulnerable communities.
The public primary school in Eversdal decided its half-century celebration should be about more than just the school's own history. Through its well-known DAMUS fundraising project, the school community came together to raise money that is entirely channelled back into the community.
DAMUS part of the school's identity since 1976
The school's 48th DAMUS evening was held on 27 August. The project has been part of Eversdal Primary's identity since 1976 and brings together learners, parents, staff, alumni and the broader community every year.
This year the school set a special goal: to support 50 organisations – one for each year of Eversdal Primary's existence. The project ultimately raised R358 500.
"From the beginning we felt that Eversdal Primary's 50th year should be about more than just our own celebrations. It also had to be an opportunity to live out our motto, 'We Give', in a tangible way," said Salomina du Plessis, the fundraising organiser.
In the 25 days before DAMUS, the school introduced two of the beneficiary organisations daily on its social media platforms. The aim was not just to raise money, but also to give greater exposure to organisations that often do important work behind the scenes in communities.
Headmaster: success is also measured by what you mean to others
According to headmaster Gys Burger, the achievement is proof of what is possible when a community comes together.
"We want our learners to understand that success is not only measured by what you achieve, but also by what you are willing to mean to others. Values such as caring, compassion, service and generosity form an important part of the people we hope our learners will one day become."
Parents and guardians contributed products, time and skills, staff helped organise the project and learners participated themselves. Burger said every person who contributed was part of the ultimate success.
"This amount was not raised by one person or one group. This is what happens when a community comes together around a shared goal."
More than just a celebration of five decades
For Eversdal Primary, the 50th year became more than a celebration of five decades of history. It also became a practical living out of the school's motto: "We Give".
Fifty years, a community joining hands and more than R358 000 flowing back to people and organisations that need it.
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This article is an automatic English translation of a Nuusflits article originally published in Afrikaans. Read the Afrikaans original.
