Bondies walk away with $5837 for charity

by Jessica Borten

The Bond University Community Outreach Group (BUCOG) has raised $5837 for Camp Quality’s Big Walk for Little Kids campaign, placing them eleventh on the national leader board.

BUCOG President, Grace Pucci, says participating in the campaign was a “truly eye-opening experience”.

“Knowing that BUCOG was able to bring everyone together to help young children suffering from cancer, and their families, is inspiring and only motivates me and my team to do even better in the future,” says Ms Pucci.

“Our Executive Team could not believe how much support we received from fellow Bond students and the local community.”

Participants walked 25km, 50km or 100km throughout October, with friends and families donating. This year, more than 5000 walkers across Australia helped Camp Quality exceed their goal amount of $850,000 by collectively raising $911,474.

BUCOG Vice President, Joshua Waite, says after participating in the Big Walk for Little Kids initiative he has developed an appreciation for the work done by charities like Camp Quality.

“I still cannot believe that the Bond University community has managed to raise $5837 for Camp Quality, placing us 11th on the Australian teams’ leader board,” says Mr Waite.

“This is a testament to the incredible enthusiasm and kindness of our Bond students. It has been incredible to see the community support such a worthwhile cause, either by walking or donating to others.”

BUCOG Content Creator, Josiah Neal, says the campaign has made him “cognisant of the hardships that children with cancer and their families suffer”.

“(The campaign has) encouraged me to continue to strive to do my best and to value those around me because no one knows when life could throw you a curve ball,” says Mr Neal.

“The fact that the BUCOG-organised team was able to raise so much money speaks to the social awareness and compassion of all involved.”

BUCOG Liaison Officer, Katie Fleming, and Volunteer Coordinator, Rimaz Toto, say the campaign has encouraged them to prioritise their health.

“Knowing that you were part of something and working with a team to help these kids was really fulfilling,” Ms Fleming says.

“Seeing BUCOG’s end result and the total funds raised by the whole big walk for little kids was really inspiring - it made me feel really proud of myself and others. It also showed how important it is to get moving every day and how we need to be aware of our health.”

Ms Toto says: “It feels good and restores my faith that many people are willing to make a difference to kids who are disadvantaged. (The experience has) enhanced my value and gratitude for a healthy and prosperous life.”

Ms Pucci says the fundraiser has been a highlight of her year and is encouraging other students to get involved in future BUCOG initiatives.

“What I love about BUCOG is that it has the power to positively impact the lives of others in so many different ways,” says Ms Pucci.

“Whether you volunteer with us or participate in awareness raising or fundraising activities, you are guaranteed to have made a difference to the lives of others. That, in itself, is a special gift that people should take advantage of.”