FOOD FOR THOUGHT
A big step up in community service
The difference that 40 hours without food makes can be profound.
In 2016, Palmerston North Boys’ High School student, Benji Pritchard decided he would take part in World Vision’s annual 40-hour Famine. Immersing himself in the cause, Pritchard raised $1800 in two weeks.
More importantly though was the wider impact his involvement had. It raised his level of social conscience. With his saxophone, he had busked in support of Christchurch earthquake victims.
‘‘My social concerns had always been there, they have just grown,’’ Pritchard said.
This year was a big step up and the school prefect co-ordinated an ambitious campaign to raise a large sum in support of World Vision’s Syrian refugee programme.
The multi-pronged strategy run by senior students at the school, involved a cake competition with the Topp Twins, an art display and auction, a fun run and walk, a concert, a fight night and a speakers’ night.
Our Generation United raised $2500, with the Boys’ High Syrian refugee campaign realising $15,000.
The 18-year-old had also set up a social enterprise known as Education Is A Right Not A Privilege.
‘‘It’s to help low-decile schools in the region by looking at the issues that affect children’s learning and make school difficult for them - things like not having any breakfast, not having study space, family background, mental health, and access to stationery.’’
As well as working with suppliers on stationery for the group, in June next year Pritchard is planning a youth leadership conference. Although he was leaving Palmerston North for Wellington to further his growing interest in third world countries and cultures, globalisation and geopolitics at Victoria University, Pritchard has set up contacts for the group through the city council and at Square Edge, where he is on the board.
His efforts on behalf of others were recognised in November when he received a special accolade from the Palmerston North City Council for services to the arts community.
Last Thursday during an assembly and farewell to the school, Pritchard was the recipient of the Boys’ High Prefects Cup for community service.