Yesterday, Year 10 CAFOD Young Leaders from Notre Dame, All Saints School, and St. Pius School gathered at the Catholic University Hub in Sheffield for their second session with Sharon from CAFOD. The day was filled with inspiring presentations, thoughtful discussions, and engaging activities, all aimed at deepening the students’ understanding of CAFOD’s mission and work.
Each school group kicked off the session by presenting what they have accomplished since their last meeting. These initiatives included creative fundraising efforts to purchase World Gifts and raising awareness within their schools about the importance of CAFOD’s work. Through their presentations, the young leaders highlighted not just how they raised funds, but also why such efforts are crucial to supporting communities in need around the world.
Sharon provided insight into the driving force behind CAFOD’s efforts, explaining what motivates CAFOD’s staff and volunteers. This session underscored the powerful message that “giving is transformational,” a central principle of CAFOD’s theology of fundraising.
The students also engaged in two practical activities:
- Prioritizing the ‘WHY’: Each group reflected on the core purpose of CAFOD’s work, considering the values and mission that underpin its projects.
- Project Manager Simulation: Students took on the role of project managers tasked with allocating a hypothetical £15,000 budget. They debated how best to distribute the funds and considered which communities and initiatives their projects would benefit the most.
The activities encouraged working together, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation of the impact of their efforts.
It was a truly inspiring day, filled with meaningful learning and enthusiastic participation. Our young people left feeling motivated and are eagerly looking forward to their next session in May!
We are incredibly proud of our students for their dedication to making a difference and living out the values of compassion, generosity, and justice.
God Bless.
Suzanne
Chaplain
