Over the past month, Joey Clarkson and Habitat for Humanity have been visiting schools in the Comox Valley with a message of inspiration and empowerment.
Speaking at assemblies and small groups this team has been rallying the youth of School District 71 to get involved with their local Habitat for Humanity branch through the House the Kids Built project — a mission to mobilize the youth of the district into using their talents and ideas to raise money to build a house.
"At one of first the assemblies a young boy came up to me and said, "I found this loonie in my pocket and I would like to donate it to the House the Kids Built," says Joey.
"It may have only been a loonie, but to a child it is a fortune and his generosity was incredible. We are having that coin, the first gathered in our project, framed to hang on the wall in the new house. It really represents the compassion of children and the idea that every little bit helps."
A concert Jan. 19 at the Native Sons' Hall will feature Haley Isles, Alexandria Maillot, Keisja Cox, Cathedral Groove and Joey Clarkson and her band. Habitat for Humanity's Red Carpet Gala will kick off the fundraising efforts of the Comox Valley youth.
Clarkson, along with some talented students, will premier the new song Everybody, penned especially by Clarkson for Habitat. Students will be involved in recording the song that will be used as an additional fundraiser through iTunes.
The evening will be filled with live entertainment, a silent auction, concession, door prizes and games suitable for children and families. All proceeds from this event are going directly toward the House The Kids Built.
The silent auction table will have some wonderful items to bid on including guest moorage at Jennis Bay Marina in the Broughton Islands, grass-fed lamb from Glen Alwin Farm, chicken from Fernwood Farm and a portrait session with Clarkson Photography.
"The reason we are not advertising this event with a minimum donation suggestion is because we really do believe that every little bit counts; we don't want to turn away any support for this project," says Clarkson.
"The smallest donations can make the biggest impact when they are received from a crowd of plenty. This event is about coming together as a community, and offering support in whatever way or measure we are able to; to contribute to an organization that is committed to contributing to our community," she adds.
"Long after the kids are out of school, and with homes and jobs of their own, they will pass by this build and feel the pride of contributing to something very special. They may be young, but they have power to accomplish great things."
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/thehousethekidsbuilt.
Doors at the Red Carpet Gala this Saturday open at 6 p.m. The all-ages event starts at 7.
For more information, contact Joey Clarkson at 250-218-5007 or Tom Beshr of Habitat for Humanity at 250-792-4810.
If you're interested in becoming involved, or would like to contribute to this fundraiser, contact Joey Clarkson at thehousethekidsbuilt@gmail.com.
— Habitat for Humanity