Media Releases

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Good Things Are Happening
QUEEN ELIZABETH SCHOOL HOSTS SECOND ANNUAL VIDEO CONFERENCE FOR HOPE

On Wednesday, April 30, from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., approximately 50 schools from around the world will come together through the second annual Video Conference for Hope. This year's video conference will join students with representatives from the United Nations, governments and international aid organizations. The goal of the conference is to raise awareness about the rights of children and education in Nicaragua.

The Video Conference for Hope is working in partnership with Change for Children to raise $10,000 towards the construction of a primary school in Esteli, Nicaragua. Throughout the day, students will have the chance to collaborate with other schools on fundraising opportunities. In addition, students will also be able to listen to experts, debate issues, share personal stories, sing, dance and celebrate the opportunity to receive an education that is free of persecution and hardship.

By working with Change for Children, the Video Conference for Hope will be going live to Nicaragua where participants will have the opportunity to interact with the children and teachers who will benefit from the fundraising efforts.

Change for Children supports sustainable, community-led development in the Global South and encourages Canadians to play an increased role in working for peace, democracy, human rights and a more equitable world.

Dignitaries in attendance include: the Honourable Dave Hancock, Minister of Education; Board Chair Bev Esslinger; and Superintendent of Schools Edgar Schmidt.

More information about the day's sessions is available at http://www.changeforchildren.org/vch/vch.html.

For further information, contact:
Terry Godwaldt, teacher
Queen Elizabeth School
9425 - 132 Avenue
(780) 476-8671