Bring a smile to a child’s face
ILLOVO – Head of business development at Reach for a Dream Natalie Lazaris reflects on the joys and challenges of 2018.
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Reach for a Dream wishes to thank the community for their support in helping them fulfil the dreams of 1 650 children suffering from life-threatening illnesses across South Africa this year.
This year marked their 30th anniversary as a foundation. They also launched the new Dream Rooms project this year, which saw colourful, safe spaces emerge in hospital paediatric wards where children can play and relax while waiting for treatment.
Head of business development at the foundation Natalie Lazaris said, “We do expect to fulfil 1 650 dreams this year. With all our projects, outings, camps and in care hospital programmes, we will have impacted over 35 000 children [this year].”
The foundation raises R25 million annually to continue their work of fulfilling the dreams of children facing life-threatening illnesses across the country.
“The economic times have forced some companies and individuals to pull back, so that has been an obstacle. However, what this has done has forced us to find creative ways to raise funds, which we have managed to do,” said Lazaris.
Reach for a Dream is currently running a campaign with Hamley’s toy store where customers can purchase a postcard for R10 and all proceeds will go to the Reach for a Dream Foundation. Children can post their Christmas wishes in a box at a Hamley’s store and stand a chance of having their wishes come true.
“Thank you South Africa, for supporting the foundation and for believing in the power of dreams. It is because of the companies, individuals and community at large that we are able to positively impact the lives of children who are really ill. Thank you for inspiring hope in our dreamers. We wish all South Africans a safe and healthy festive season,” said Lazaris.
Community members and businesses are encouraged to support Reach for a Dream financially by making donations on their website on www.reachforadream.org.za.