Help David go to Class Afloat
Teens, these days. Right?
Our collective world has lost so much over the last year and a half. As a teacher, I know that the Covid pandemic has particularly cost young people so very much. They have endured lost opportunities and experiences such as graduation ceremonies, prom, sports competitions, academic pursuits and the list goes on. While this may seem trivial to some, these moments and experiences are vital to their personal growth, mental health and sense of belonging in the world.
The pandemic has struck at the heart of many young people's dreams. In these uncertain times, it has become difficult to plan for the future, much less dream. However, I know a certain young man who has notched his arrow and aimed high.
Let me introduce you to David James. David has the extraordinary opportunity to fulfill his dream of joining Class Afloat where he would spend the 2021-2022 academic year abroad sailing on the tall ship Alexander von Humbolt II. Make no mistake- this is not a vacation aboard a luxury yacht. David is expected to maintain his already exemplary academic pursuits in daily classes and work hard as the crew on daily 4 hour shifts scrubbing the deck, doing day and night watch and any other tasks as directed.
David is no stranger to challenge and hard work. In his native South Africa, David completed surf life-saving qualifications and did volunteer beach duties. In November 2019, David and his family relocated to our small, northern community of Mackenzie. He has become well-known locally as the first call for any jobs and volunteer help in the community. No matter how big or small, dirty or tedious the job may be, David has a grateful and willing attitude to serve his adopted community, all while saving towards his dream. In addition to his tenacity, David is an avid and dedicated sailor and scuba diver with a passion for marine biology and oceanography. David continues to volunteer in the Mackenzie area and has broadened his sport pursuits. He has lessened his self-described "Sea Fever" by learning how to snowboard!
David's dream was postponed once due to Covid and lack of resources. However, David has persevered and didn't stop saving and dreaming. David applied for- and won- a $20,000 scholarship! But he still needs our help.
In the face of this beautiful and seemingly impossible dream, David still dares to hope. I invite you to invest in our collective future by investing in David's future. The cost is great but the reward is greater. Watching a young life blossom and grow through dreams made reality will nurture a seed of hope in all of us. We must continue to hold fast to the vision of a greater planet by believing this generation will do more than we can imagine.
What your donation will help pay for:
Fee deposit: $12,000 (required before September 7)
Uniforms, air tickets, medical insurance, travel visas: approximately $5,000
Outstanding program fees: $23,000 (yes, AFTER the $20K and money David has already earned)
** As David earns money or receives donations outside of this fundraiser, you will notice the target donation change**
Please help David achieve his dream of a year aboard Class Afloat with a one-time donation or a monthly sponsorship. I promise you- you won't regret it!
NOTE: If David does not meet his fundraising goal by September 7, your donation can still help David join Class Afloat for the 2022-2023 school year!
Respectfully and gratefully,
Angie Shaqiri, on behalf of the James Family
