Philanthropic donation boost for support charity
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Seven teams of third year pupils representing the Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) assembled at Inverurie Academy on Tuesday evening to go head to head for the final judging of their presentations, with the winner in line to take home some £3000 for their nominated charity.
The seven finalist teams were representing charities, Apex Grampian, Grampian Opportunities, Home-Start Garioch, Kayleigh's Wee Stars, Mental Health Aberdeen, Penumbra and Samaritans respectively.
Each of the participating finalists have spent time with the charities learning about their day to day operation and the wide and varied support that each offers the community at large.
The judges, who had a very difficult task, were depute head teacher Dr Alison Drysdale, Scott Campbell, senior pupil Josh MacRae, Bryan Stuart from the business community and chair of the parent council Elizabeth Watt.
The winning team Apex Grampian received a cheque for £3000 for their chosen charity.
Working across the north-east the charity's aim and purpose is focussed on reducing re-offending, promoting desistance, tackling deprivation and making communities safer.
They also work with ex-offenders, youths and those at risk to give them the skills to find work and stay in work.
Commenting, team leader for Apex Grampian, Rioghnach Armstrong said: “We're absolutely delighted and really appreciative of the win.”
She also said that the money will be used to help service users get into work.
A spokesperson from Inverurie Academy said: “We had a brilliant evening at our YPI Scotland finals event.
“There were super presentations from our young people and fabulous partnership work at home, in the community and with our staff team to get ready for the evening.
“Our thanks go to all who supported and participated.
“We are a very proud school.”
Commenting, a spokesperson from the Inverurie Academy Charities committee who have been involved with the event and liaising with the partner agencies said: “A massive well done goes to the Apex Grampian team who have been awarded the £3000 for their amazing charity.
“Well done to all the groups, everyone did amazing.”
Senior pupil Josh MacRae who was part of the judging panel and who is a member of the Scottish Youth Parliament commented: “It was an absolute pleasure to chair the judging panel for the YPI Scotland finals at Inverurie Academy.
“Well done to all groups for their hard work preparing their presentations.”
