Mormon Helping Hands Provide Service to Belmore Boys School

On Saturday, 29th October more than 120 members from the Sydney Australia Mortdale Stake (Diocese) of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including NRL player Will Hopoate,  partnered with Belmore Boys High School to provide a day of service around the school grounds.

Principal Ms. Hala Ramadan, head teacher Mr. Omar Chahrouk and other teachers also attended for the day. Among those participating was Will Hopoate Canterbury Bulldog player.

Will Hopoate, a member of Mortdale Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and school leaders were introduced to each other through the Bulldogs Community Manager Mr. Saree Boutros who facilitated the meeting and came to support the service project.

Several projects requiring attention within the school were decided upon. Materials were donated by retailers and sponsors including a donation from the Church.

A diverse group from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints including young children, tradespeople, elderly members and missionaries came together to volunteer for the day.

The group reconstructed sheds, repainted walls and awnings, constructed garden beds and performed other tasks to improve and beautify the environment of Belmore Boys High School.

Ms. Hala Ramadan said that she was overwhelmed by the support given to the School and their students, and was grateful to all those who disregarded cultural and religious barriers to give to kids who deserve a chance and a better school environment. She said “our boys come from all around the world covering all continents, but the minute they walk into Belmore, they are walking into their second home with their larger family”.

Mortdale church leader, Philip Barton expressed the strong feeling of family that was felt at the school. “We felt the powerful sense of community as we worked with the leaders in the school and were grateful to be invited in to be part of that for a time. We believe that the family is the most important unit of society and we were happy to have our families help other people”.

A Community Service Award was presented to Ms. Ramadan and Mr. Omar Chahrouk recognising the time they give to the school outside of regular hours making the school a better place for their students. The church and school both expressed their gratitude in a formal ceremony to conclude the day. School captain, Sam Van Der Walle, also a member of the church was there to assist. Both groups look forward to continuing partnerships and working together in the future.