Winners present cheque to Guide Dogs Scotland
Two fifth-year students at Blairgowrie High School presented a cheque for £3000 to the local branch of Guide Dogs Scotland last week as part of the Youth and Philanthrophy Initiative (YPI).
Lisa Fairweather and Grace Atkinson won the money for the worthwhile cause after researching social problems in the community and creating a presentation on a local charity they believe is best placed to tackle an issue they are passionate about.
This was the fifth year local pupils have taken part in the initiative and Lisa and Grace chose to champion Guide Dogs Scotland as it boosts the confidence of people who are visually impaired and helps them to get out and about.
Through the money, the school gets to sponsor a guide dog puppy for its training for a year. They also get to name it and follow its progress.
Lisa and Grace asked their fellow pupils to suggest names for their special puppy and the first choice of name is Wanda with Oakley the second choice.
Blairgowrie High School YPI co-ordinator, teacher Mark Asensio, said:“YPI is a fabulous national initiative that develops and encourages the spirit of giving.
“Including the YPI programme in coursework helps pupils develop an understanding of moral values and find ways to promote a more just and compassionate society.”
Deirdre McVean is chair of the Perth and District branch of Guide Dogs Scotland.
She said:“We’re delighted to celebrate the success of the winning Youth Philanthropy Initiative team from Blairgowrie High School who chose Guide Dogs as their charity. The donation allows them to name a guide dog puppy and also to sponsor a class of puppies.
“The whole school will be able to learn how the puppy is progressing through regular ‘pup dates’.
“Wanda or Oakley will grow up to become a life-changing guide dog which will give a blind or partially sighted person the freedom and confidence to do the things which sighted people take for granted.”