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Haiti fundraiser in Harrison on tap

Student-led event takes place Sept. 22
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An AESS student is hosting a fundraiser for multiple charities focused on helping in Haiti. (Photo/Carlie Van Oort)

A local event helping an international cause is coming to Agassiz-Harrison soon.

AESS Grade 12 student Carlie Van Oort is hosting a fundraiser for Heart to Heart Haiti and Alongside Haiti at Harrison Memorial Hall on Thursday, Sept 22 from 7 p.m to 9 p.m.

Van Oort chose the fundraiser as her capstone project for graduation; she was inspired to give back to causes in Haiti after a missions trip with Heart to Heart Haiti back in 2018.

“I’d never been to a third-world country before and I didn’t know what to expect,” Van Oort said. “It really changes the way you view things; everybody is so happy with the little things they have. It really impacted me and I just want to give back.”

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A capstone project is, according to the B.C. Curriculum Guide, “an opportunity for students to further develop and showcase their strengths, passions, and learning journey to a relevant audience.” This project is meant to apply Core Competency principles to a project that would leave a lasting legacy even outside of their academic career.

Thursday’s fundraiser will feature live music from Harrison’s own Andy Hillhouse, a silent auction and refreshments. Admission is $15 per person and children aged 12 and under are admitted by donation.

Heart to Heart Haiti is a Canada-based non-profit organization dedicated to education, adult literacy, health and dental services to Haitians. Alongside Haiti is designed to help the Haitian people achieve educational goals and ensure their needs are met through sufficient income.

To donate silent auction items or to learn how you can help, contact VanOort via email at carlie.jvo@gmail.com.