CHRIS SYMONS Chair
from the chair 2016 has seen the foundation touch many lives in a positive way as we continue our commitment to make a difference for children and families. The board is currently reviewing our plan for 2017 and plan to increase our fund raising efforts so that we can reach more people. This month we wanted to share a couple of amazing pieces of feedback and thank the hospitality industry for their contribution in making this possible. * * * Dear Chris, I don't know if you remember us but we were extremely fortunate to obtain funding from your organisation last year to start and maintain a vigorous program of physiotherapy. We are now about 18 months into that therapy and I wanted to let you and your board know how much of a difference this has made to Christian's life. When Christian first started, he couldn't stand on one leg for more than 3 seconds, he had no core strength, couldn't hop, ride a bike nor swim. Today, he is doing us all proud. Last week, he swam 50m backstroke in our local pool and today (for the first time ever) received an award from his Sports Teacher for having a red hot go at everything he was asked to do. More importantly, when he received this award in assembly, the entire school community erupted in thunderous applause, high fived and fist punched him for his achievement. Christian was well known in the school for not ever trying at sports and the kids used to mock him endlessly. Now, with his renewed sense of determination and willingness to give things a go, everyone is behind him and
recognising what an effort has been put in to get this far. We still have a little way to go. This is and will continue to be an ongoing thing but today, after watching my boy go through that crowd with a massive smile on his face, I just had to go back to original source of Christian's funding and say thank you. Thank you for helping make such a massive difference in my son's life. * * * Colony 47 Movie Day Hi Chris Thank you to THAT for your generosity in bringing such a ray of happiness to the Colony 47 programs parents and children today. It is amazing to think that this act of care and kindness can give so many people some quality time to be together as a family and feel that they are part of a community. Diana reported a close to full house and I know that the tickets were highly sought after and valued. Thanks again on behalf of Colony 47 and all of the people who were fortunate enough to attend. If you know of any children requiring assistance and/or are able to support with donations please do not hesitate to contact me (0408 075 734 or csymons@goodstart.org.au ) or one of the other board members to discuss if we can assist.
December 2016
19
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