9 Year Old Builds School, Brick by Brick

Avery Skog raises $12,000 to help build a school in Kenya

TORONTO, June 17, 2014 /CNW/ - When 9-year-old Morris, Manitoba native Avery Skog learned that more than 120 million children worldwide couldn't go to school, he had to do something about it. He sold his bike, and donated his hard-earned allowance, and then challenged all his friends and family to help him, brick by brick.

Avery's goal was to raise $10,000 before his 10^th birthday for Free The Children and RBC's We Create Change campaign, to build schools and school rooms in developing countries. Avery surpassed his goal by raising a total of $12,000.

"I know I am young, and I don't have much, but we all have a voice," says Avery. "If we all work with what we have, we really can help others, we can make a difference."

To help fundraise, Avery filmed a YouTube video explaining his goals and encouraging others to donate. He came up with a number of ideas, including a bake sale, 50/50 draws, and a Week of Change where students at his school brought in different amounts of change each day.    

"I am so proud of him," said Darren, Avery's Father. "Avery is very committed to this project and helping others, and we look forward to continue raising money for We Create Change next year too."

Avery will be speaking to students and answering their questions about his inspiration and experiences in making change. He will be available for interview and kiddie-press conference.

DETAILS:

What: Avery's Talk & Kiddie Press Conference
When: 11:00am
Where: Burrows Hall Junior Public School, 151 Burrows Hall Blvd, Scarborough, ON

The Facts

• More than 120 million children globally are denied the basic right to an education—the key to ending extreme poverty and hunger.
• Education ensures that children learn valuable skills that help them grow, protect themselves from disease, earn a better living and understand their rights to ensure they're never exploited.
• In many places around the world, schools simply don't exist or are in no condition for teaching and learning.
• Approximately 57 million primary school-aged children not in school, and 31 million of them are girls. Without an education, these children, their families, and their communities cannot break the cycle of poverty.  

Avery Skog will be in Toronto and available for interviews on June 17^th and 18^th.

SOURCE: BuzzPR

For additional information, images or interview requests, please contact: Aisha Dhalla, BuzzPR 647.289.3000 [email protected]