Harold the Giraffe closes in runners pushing for the H2H finish line

Look out for Harold at this year’s 5th March H2H. He will be on one of his “friends” eye-catching set-of-wheels. He may even wander through the finishing line and pose with fans – he’s a big celebrity throughout Australasia!  This is because he is always alongside school children learning about their uniqueness and their right to stand tall and proud – just like a giraffe.

Read more about entering and prepaying here: h2h.org.nz/entering/about-entering

Jeff Paul, retired as a school principal, well understands this importance. “The decisions young people make today can dramatically affect how they live their lives tomorrow.” He emphasises. “This is why Harold and Life Education exist.” They step children into high-tech mobile classrooms, away from their day-to-day learning, to help them “understand how their decisions affect their future health and well-being”.

“The purpose of H2H fits in perfectly with what is taught… the thrill of achieving a goal… getting to the end and feeling proud of yourself and your friends.” Jeff adds about his involvement.

The local classroom is supported by volunteers of the Mid-South Canterbury Trust, headed by Jeff and Clare Bruce as deputy. Education is significant to Clare too, who has been volunteering since age of 15 in many related community roles. It is not about “sitting on your hands”  Volunteering is about being loyal and committed, “working hard for the benefit of others”.

“Our trustees, educators and Harold supporters enjoy donning high-vis to man the intersections so runners and walkers can safely participate” Clare says. In return, some funding helps cover classroom costs and three paid staff - two who are qualified teachers.

Results multiply up when organisations work together, combining vision and abilities. The Mid-South Canterbury Life Education Trust has long standing connections with many supporters, including 20 years with the Rotary Club of Timaru North. One member, the late Don Hayman regularly organised the mobile classroom to at least 65 schools to help cater for 8000 odd children each year.

Like to volunteer? please contact John Keenan: keenanj.s93@gmail.com or 027 292 5267