Local resident Gary Cooper will start his ‘Heart and Sole Challenge’ walking the Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway from Pelican Waters to Tewantin on Saturday 6 February local to raise $20,000 for Zephyr Education Inc, to assist children who have been affected by domestic violence.
As local children all head back to school this week, Mr Cooper is stepping it up to raise awareness for children who are not equipped with support and resources to tackle a new school year due to the impact of violence.
Mr Cooper does not let being blind and non-verbal get in the way of helping others and giving back to his community. His mother, Roz Cooper, could not be more proud and will be walking beside her son every step of the walk.
“It is really important to Gary that all children have an equal chance at life and that the money raised will go directly to supporting local children’s participation in extra-curricular activities such as school camps, music lessons and sporting equipment,” Roz Cooper said.
“Gary tries not to let the things he can’t do get in the way of doing things he can do and even though he is blind and non-verbal, he thoroughly enjoys the satisfaction of being able to help others.”
Established in 2013, Zephyr Education Inc currently supports the educational needs of children in 96 shelters and family services organisations throughout Queensland from the Gold Coast to Weipa and west to Mt Isa.
Zephyr Education Inc’s co-founder and President, Isabella Bevan, said that they have just experienced their busiest month preparing children for the school year.
“In 2020 we helped 1150 children start school and we estimate that this year we will exceed that figure with over 1000 school packs assembled before the end of November last year that included textbooks, stationery, lunch boxes and school bags,” Ms Bevan said.
“Many of these children arrive at domestic violence shelters with just the clothes they are wearing and it is vital for their self-esteem and continuing education that they fit into their new school. We ensure they have the same uniform, books and equipment as every other child.”
Mr Cooper is hoping that he can encourage as many people as possible to donate to this important charity and that they can also feel the satisfaction of giving back to the community – the same way he does.
“Walking 96km is a massive effort for Gary and he will be motivated to achieve his target by people joining him on the walk and giving him encouragement and donations,” Ms Cooper said.
“Gary’s walk will culminate at ‘Gary’s Heart and Sole Fundraising Event’ at the Harbour Wine Bar, 5.30pm Thursday 11 February, where people are encouraged to come along to enjoy some live music, a silent auction and go into the draw for a lucky door prize.”
Donations can also be made directly to Zephyr Education Inc by visiting their website zephyreducation.com.au/support-us/donations/ and reference ‘GARY’ so that progress can be tracked. People will also be able to keep up to date with his progress by checking his Facebook page www.facebook.com/garysheartandsolechallenge
