CORPORATE KINDNESS and GENEROSITY

During my time as a Deputy Principal of Silverdale Normal School in Hamilton, I developed and led a boys’ programme called ‘Guy Time’. This programme was designed to use and develop boys’ learning styles and interests. The programme was popular with the Year 6 boys and to my delight I could hear them running to the classroom it was held in. (Not out!)

My practical skills are limited, so dads and male mentors were organised to come in most weeks to share their knowledge and practical activities such as fishing, diving, plane/parachute flying/making, constructing dams in the local gully and much much more. Successful male business role models also spoke with the boys about the importance of a good work ethic and being open to learning new skills etc. 

Also keen on developing the boys reading interests, and with the generous sponsorship of TalkingTech, we established a library of books that boys would enjoy. John Gallagher (Gallagher industries) heard about what we were doing and without being asked, sponsored our ‘Father and Son’ weekends at his west coast beef and sheep farm south of Kawhia. In return, we cleaned up plastic rubbish on the local beach. 

On one weekend he arranged free helicopter rides for us around his property. Outstanding! John also impressed me with his humility and willingness to help with no fanfare and no fuss. A wise, good man. Seeing the boys bonding with their dads during their time together gave me great joy and satisfaction. A win-win situation for all of us.

POINTS to PONDER

The corporate world sponsor far more in our society than we realise. Many do not seek any publicity, they just want to give back to people in need. They are kind and generous and in my experience, don’t push their own agendas or any sort of personal glory.

If you’re planning or doing something in your community that helps people, seek available sponsorship. Show the potential sponsor how their dollars will improve the lives of young and old alike. Show them your plan/strategy. 

Tell them your stories of lives changed.




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