Focus | Cholmondeley Children’s Centre
Focus | Camp Quality
Delivering life-changing experiences Looking after our little gems Cholmondeley Children’s Centre has been helping children shine for the past 93 years and now it’s your turn to shine with the introduction of The Little Gems Project. The inaugural annual event was held on May 26 at Sixty6 on Peterborough and was the successful launch Cholmondeley envisioned. More than 300 guests were invited to dig out their denim, put on their sparkle and tighten their dancing shoes to support the much-loved charity that has been a saviour for many Canterbury families. This year’s event was hosted by radio and television personality Jason Gunn. Attendees were delighted with performances from Epic Entertainment, live music by The Corks and a live auction — with all proceeds going towards helping families in their time of need. CEO Arron Perriam says, “The Little Gems Project is based on the concept that Cholmondeley believes there is a diamond
within all of us, and we want to help bring out the inner sparkle in every precious Canterbury child – our little gems”, and as Cholmondeley is 80 percent community funded, it relies heavily on businesses and individuals to continue the vital work it does within Canterbury. Cholmondeley has seen more than 25,000 children through it's doors since 1925. The charity understands children need time to be kids and that can be difficult if their families are going through a rough patch. The demand on Cholmondeley’s education, accommodation and social-work services is greater than ever before and it has a unique and critical role to play in the community. Cholmondeley offers a haven where children can forget life’s pressures, create lasting friendships and learn valuable life skills. The Little Gems Project encapsulates the heart of Cholmondeley and it would not have been possible without the support of their valued sponsors, and of course, the people of Canterbury who attended the fundraising evening. If you missed out this time around, there are plenty of other ways you can show your support through volunteering, donations or corporate sponsorship – every little bit helps. The Little Gems website has been set up to keep you updated and informed and will continue to be a source of information for future events, so you can be sure to be a part of it for many years to come. CT Cholmondeley Children’s Centre 6 Cholmondeley Lane Governors Bay T (03) 329 9832 info@cholmondeley.org.nz www.cholmondeley.org.nz www.littlegems.org.nz
Camp Quality New Zealand does not just benefit the children who attend its nationwide camps each summer, it also contributes enormously to the lives of the young adults who attend as companions. Camp Quality is a national charitable organisation providing camps and recreational activities for children aged five to 16 living with cancer. It is managed and run by committed volunteers dedicated to bringing fun, hope and happiness into their lives. This year more than 280 children were treated to an unforgettable week-long experience at one of Camp Quality’s five locations throughout the country, including the Christchurch camp at Living Springs in Governors Bay. Christchurch camp regional manager Damian Young says Camp Quality provides a stress-free and caring environment for children, where fun and friendship are combined with achievable challenges. These children get the chance to “just be kids”, gaining a sense of normality and independence and focusing on the positive aspects of their lives.
Camp Quality is continually looking for companions for their campers, with about 500 volunteers trained nationwide each year. They must be over 18 and available to attend a training weekend, with male companions particularly sought after.
“It’s about giving them an opportunity to catch up on the things that children should be doing as they grow up.” – Camp regional manager, Damian Young
“It’s about giving them an opportunity to catch up on the things that children should be doing as they grow up,” he says.
“A lot of young people today want to do something meaningful, and being involved with our organisation is hugely rewarding,” he says.
A huge part of the success of Camp Quality in Christchurch is having such an amazing facility to use at Living Springs.
Camp Quality companions gain leadership training, and personal and professional development skills.
"When it comes to organising and running our camps, we are very fortunate to have such a fantastic team at Living Springs who do so much to help ensure that these children get a fun-filled experience every year."
“We are growing our young people of the future and connecting them with a way that they can actively make a difference.”
Camp companions needed A big part of building resilience and confidence in the children is achieved through Camp Quality’s unique companion programme. Each child has a companion assigned to them for the duration of the camp, often meeting the family beforehand and forging a genuine friendship with them. “The companions build a special bond with the campers and ensure each child is safe, sorted and smiling,” Damian says.
Camp Quality is free to attend for both children and companions, with companion applications opening in July for this summer’s Christchurch camp. You can register your interest now on its website. CT Camp Quality New Zealand PO Box 20430 Bishopdale Christchurch 8543 T 0800 CAMP QUALITY (0800 226 778) www.campquality.org.nz
— Advertising Feature
STRUCTURAL STEEL, SUPPLY, FABRICATION & ERECTION SOUTH ISLAND WIDE
Proudly associated with Cholmondeley PO Box 4241, Christchurch Phone: 03 366 8679 Email: admin@jjsteel.co.nz or frank@jjsteel.co.nz HEAD OFFICE & WORKSHOP 18 Sir James Wattie Drive, Hornby
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There is no better place in Canterbury than Living Springs to host a team-building event. Stunning harbour views, facilities for a variety of activities and great food. Only a 20-minute drive from the city and yet a world away. Accommodation is also available. Contact Michelle in the office on 03 329 9788 or email reception@livingsprings.co.nz www.livingsprings.co.nz
— Advertising Feature