'10 - Jan.'11 - Qingdao Expat Group

Qingdao Expat CharityUChanges in their livesby Marcela Lickova,photo by Jana HalikovaOne of the biggest projects for the Qingdao ExpatCharity group in 2010 was to assist schools in Laixiand Pingdu. With these schools the charity group hascollaborated for several years already. We have supportedseveral students by paying their tuition fees.Through the support (completed in the past)changes to the infrastructure and conditions for studentshave been most significantly - changed the originalwooden windows and doors for new plastic onesand improved the school toilet conditions to meet localstandards in Pingdu schools. Also the donation of computersfor their computer lab, the change the originalwooden windows and doors for new plastic ones andimproving the school toilets conditions up to local standardsin Laixi schools.Step by step the schools have been puling themselvestogether and have tried to become a placewhere the students not only get their education but bea place with better conditions, with nicer atmosphere tobe surrounded by.Nevertheless, previously the children had beensitting in cold rooms, with old wooden windows anddoors unable to resist the wind coming through. It hasbeen not very comfortable for them when they have tofocus on their study. We indeed hope the improved conditionsenhance the quality of their hours of study.With money raised during events organized bythe charity group, plus donations collected at lastyear`s Winter Ball and the pantomime performances,we could pay for new windows and doors for two morebuildings in Laixi and install central heating for ninerooms in the Pingdu school, during autumn 2010.Undoubtedly the students can feel the differencewhilst sitting in the classrooms; you can see thedifference from pictures. There are still some classroomswhich need to have windows changed and roofsto be insulated.By attending the Winter Ball (4 th December inShangri-La Hotel), buying raffle tickets, making a bid inthe silent auction or just volunteer financial donation,you participate in charity assistance. Thank you againfor your generosity – we can make the difference together.Qingdao Expat Magazine 18