ROCKINGHAM Day View Club celebrated their 13th Birthday on May 5 at the Ocean Clipper Inn, Rockingham.
Members of the club were treated to a talk from special guest Travis Papalia.
Mr Papalia has been a recipient of the club’s main fundraising venture, the Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, an anonymous sponsorship program that helps families in need to afford a child’s education essentials such as uniforms, shoes and stationery.
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Mr Papalia is currently studying the Assured Graduate of Medicine Undergraduate Program at UWA.
“It is about giving back, I feel like I’ve been given a reason to put in the effort with my studies,” he said.
“I wouldn’t have been able to get here without my View club sponsors.”
View members from all six WA clubs attended and were delighted to see living proof of what their fundraising efforts achieved.
Students are also connected with a Smith Family Learning for Life Program Co-ordinator who supports them to stay engaged with their learning.
It is about breaking the cycle of disadvantage.
Rockingham Sound Day View Club president Mabel Laidlaw said it was trying to establish a club in Dunsborough.
“It’s a way to connect with other women; it extends networks for people and on a philanthropic if gets businesses involved,” she said.
“Travis wanted to connect with his sponsors, it is rare that we get this opportunity,” she said.
“But we do go to the Smith Family Graduation ceremonies and it is amazing how these kids give back and how much they appreciate the help they have been given.”
“It’s humbling to see. I get a big buzz out of it.”
Mrs Laidlaw said if people would like more information they can call 9527 2911.