As part of a school initiative, each student was asked to present a case for a charity of their choice. Evie’s passionate plea, in which she shared the daily challenges she faces due to dyslexia, won the full support of her peers.
This led to a generous donation to the local charity, SPELD SA, which provides support for children with dyslexia and other learning difficulties.
“When we first heard about the donation, we were truly touched and incredibly grateful,” said Angelik, Literacy & Numeracy Clinic Manager at SPELD SA. “This contribution will help families who might not otherwise be able to afford the necessary support, ensuring they get the help they need.”
Evie’s teacher, Jess, explained: “All the students were encouraged to choose a charity they felt passionate about, and I helped Evie find SPELD SA because she wanted to raise awareness about dyslexia. Evie struggles with reading and spelling, but her strong sense of self enables her to work incredibly hard and succeed. She practices reading and even memorises parts for performances as she’s also a keen actress.”
“Evie stood in front of 75 students and spoke about how dyslexia is often unseen, but she sees it as her ‘superpower.’ She explained that, although it means she has to work harder, it doesn’t mean she isn’t clever. Her speech moved us all to tears. It was so powerful that her whole class voted for her, recognising how truly inspiring her words were.”
At the end-of-year assembly, Evie and her classmates were honoured for their efforts and personally presented the donation to SPELD SA. Angelik graciously accepted the gift on behalf of the charity.
Through the SPELD SA Literacy Clinic Bursary, the school’s donation will help low-income families access vital support services. In a time when many are struggling with the cost of living, this donation comes as a much-needed boost for those who require assistance the most.
SPELD SA helps children and adults with dyslexia and other specific learning difficulties by offering individual support both in person and online through their Literacy & Numeracy Clinic. The charity also provides free workshops for parents and carers and offers a range of resources for both parents and educators on their website.
Pictured at top is Evie.
For more information on SPELD SA, go to speldsa.org.au