More than 150 families participated in Discovery Mind’s Community Walkathon for Good last November, a fun, festive charity walk that provided a much-needed boost to many before the Christmas holidays.
The cross-campus walk, which took place on November 16 across two kindergartens, a primary school and play centres, raised money for Operation Santa Claus (OSC), an annual fundraising campaign organised by the South China Morning Post and public broadcaster RTHK.
Since 2005, Discovery Mind has been a major supporter of OSC, raising more than HK$1.9 million to support the city’s less fortunate. The 2024 edition raised more than HK$54,000 alone, according to Kabeeta Gurung, Discovery Mind’s kindergarten head.
Gurung said events like the charity walk benefit the development and growth of students outside the classroom, giving them invaluable skills that last a lifetime.
“The partnership between Discovery Mind Educational Organisation and Operation Santa Claus enriches our students’ education by reinforcing the core values of respect, empathy, kindness, and social responsibility,” Gurung said.
“Through community service and charity events, our students gain a deeper understanding of those in need and learn to appreciate diverse perspectives.”
DSC International School hosts successful food fair for charity
The time leading up to Christmas is one of celebration and togetherness, but it can also be tough for those who don’t have a strong support system.
Gurung believes that this year’s tagline, “Everyone can be a Santa Claus”, holds great significance in today’s world, saying that “acts of responsibility and kindness, no matter how small, contribute to building a supportive community.”
Students and parents participating in this year’s cross-campus walk echoed the sentiment.
Four-year-old kindergarten student Aleya Agarwal said she joined the walk so she could help raise money and provide financial aid “to the people who have no food so [that] they don’t [have to] starve”.
Parent Adam Rose said he appreciated the opportunity to rejoin the charity fundraising event after the pandemic.
“It was brilliant to get involved in the walk again after the hiatus over Covid,” he said. “I like the fact that OSC contributes to a number of local causes.”
OSC has raised HK$396 million to support the Hong Kong community through 364 charitable projects since 1988. There are 11 charitable projects of worthy causes being funded this year.
For more information on this year’s beneficiaries, please click here.
