Winnetka eighth-grader’s GoFundMe supports education in Peru village
In the lofty heights of Colca, Peru, situated over two miles above the ground, a remarkable partnership between a Winnetka family and the local children has blossomed, ensuring access to education for the community's young ones.
For countless years, the Boerjesson family has been generously providing school supplies and toys to the children residing in this Peruvian mountain village. Now, they are actively seeking funds to sustain this tradition.
Elise Boerjesson, an eighth-grader at Carleton Washburne Middle School in Winnetka, spearheaded a class project based on the fundraising endeavor. With Peruvian heritage flowing through her veins via her mother, Elise initiated a GoFundMe campaign with the ambitious goal of raising over $1,000 to support the students of Colca.
Annually, during the month of December, Elise and her family embark on a journey to Colca, ensuring the safe delivery of various items, including notebooks, pencils, and other essentials, to the eager children. Elise enthusiastically expresses that this particular day stands as one of her most cherished moments throughout the year.
"The children derive immense joy from the items we provide them. They truly appreciate everything they receive," Elise joyfully expressed. She further explained that the primary objective of their family's project is to guarantee the children of Colca receive a high-quality education, thereby bridging the gap between their circumstances and the opportunities they deserve.
While the GoFundMe campaign does not possess a set expiration date, Elise's class project will conclude in May. Additionally, she intends to organize a bake sale at Washburne, utilizing this initiative to gather additional funds for the ongoing project.