Konkan Floods CAS Collection drive!
On 26th July, DP1 students received a message from Ms. Mary, our CAS Coordinator who asked if we would be interested in collecting items for those affected by the devastating floods that had taken over the Konkan region. This activity was to be an indirect service since it was an initiative by a few of the students in our school, in collaboration with the ‘Shiv Sena Bhavan’, a service headquarter of the ruling party in Maharashtra. After hearing and learning about Konkan floods, most students were deeply moved at the plight of the natives and felt the urge to help. Soon a plan was sketched out with a timeline of 3 days to collect the necessary items for immediate relief and delivered to those in need urgently. We knew as persevering and determined students, that we could get it done. Moreover, in a time when most people were reluctant to come forward due to the pandemic, we also wanted to send the message that we Indians should stand by each other selflessly at such times of need, to help build a stronger country. It was also an opportunity to fine tune our persuasive skills and grow as individuals. Therefore by afternoon, most of us were quick to reply and show their interest in the donation drive.
Each participating student went on an ushered scout for help. We made several phone calls, sent texts, emails and even reached out to close friends asking for help. We forwarded posters created by some of us. I myself, personally began searching for chats with a large number of receivers, so I could reach out to a wider audience. Over the course of the next 2 days, students persevered in communicating with potential donors on how they would get the necessary resources across (food drains, masks, sanitizers and sanitary napkins). Our aim was to connect with people and confirm contributions by the 30th of August, so that we could receive all donations by the 31st, before noon. We would then deliver them to school by 4pm. Collecting all the items within a matter of 3 days was extremely tough, yet exhilarating. Nonetheless, in the process, we seemed to realise the importance of the timeline, and how much more could we have collected if we did have the time. In a manner, this collection helped us realise our potential as team players and inspiring individuals. However hassled we were, we felt like do-gooders, we felt like we had a purpose.
Now that we understand the power we have to contribute, even as adolescents we can stretch for the moon to help those in need. We understand the power of service and we hope that more of us, at Edubridge, would be as persevering and helpful in driving change.
By Viona Irani, DP 1