Academy’s pupils make charity choice
Pupils at Larkhall Academy competed for the opportunity to secure funding for a charity of their choice.
As part of the Youth Philanthropy Initiative Scotland programme, S3 pupils selected a charity and worked towards getting the £3000 prize fund.
The YPI programme, which is designed to encourage active citizenship and a greater awareness of the community, involved the pupils researching, collaborating and explaining why their charity deserved the funding.
The Trust Jack Foundation took home the grand prize after a winning presentation from Mhairi Macleod, Robyn Edwards, Abby Kane, Katie Lachlan and Holly Wilson.
It was established in memory of former Larkhall Academy pupil Jack Hastie.
The foundation aims to support young people with mental health illnesses through a range of activities, youth groups and clubs.
The judging panel included Hamilton, Stonehouse and Larkhall MSP Christina Mckelvie, who said: “It was overwhelmingly inspiring to see the young philanthropists of Larkhall Academy seize ownership of their projects and present why their charities deserved the funding.
“Presenting to your peer group is not an easy task but the pupils rose to the task exceptionally.
“Their passion and commitment to their charities was clear to see and they should be rightly proud of their work.
“I have worked with the Trust Jack Foundation throughout the years and I know how important this money will be for the foundation in continuing their vital work for young people.”
Jonathan Christie, manager of the YPI programme, said: “This is one of The Wood Foundation’s most exciting programmes, so often a young person’s first experience of philanthropy, providing them with a unique opportunity to explore the big social issues on their doorstep and advocate passionately on behalf the charities they visit.
“We are very proud of the programme and the partnership we enjoy with Larkhall Academy.”