At Garden International School, the annual Garden Party is much more than just a celebration – it is a cornerstone of our commitment to community, service, and shared purpose. Every year, our school comes together as a united community, raising funds, forging connections, and making a lasting impact on those who need it most. The Garden Party represents our values of compassion, collaboration, and contribution, and we are proud to carry on this tradition year after year.
A Brief History
The story of the Garden Party began with what was originally known as “Mufti Day”, a casual dress day where students and staff would come together to raise funds for charitable causes. What started as a small initiative soon grew into the larger, more dynamic event we know today. Over time, the Garden Party has evolved into a vibrant celebration that not only embodies the spirit of giving but also exemplifies our school’s dedication to community engagement and social responsibility.
Why We Host the Garden Party
The heart of the Garden Party lies in our commitment to supporting our five core community partners, each carefully chosen for their alignment with our values and their dedication to meaningful, impactful work. The funds raised through this event enable these organizations to continue their essential programs and extend their reach. In addition, the Garden Party also supports a broader network of community initiatives and service-learning activities with various partners. By empowering these organizations, we aim to make a tangible difference in key areas such as education, sustainability, and social welfare. The event also offers students, staff, and families a unique opportunity to connect with these causes, deepening their understanding of social responsibility and the power of collective action.
Beneficiaries of the Garden Party
This year, we proudly supported five incredible organizations: Make-A-Wish Malaysia, GIS Street Feeding Initiative, Pads and Paws, Free Tree Society, and Dignity for Children Foundation. Each of these organizations plays a vital role in addressing pressing community needs, and the contributions we made will help them expand their programs and serve even more people.
Every three to four years, we take a moment to step back and evaluate our collaborations with these core partners. This thoughtful review helps us assess the impact we’ve made and identify opportunities for growth. It’s a time to reflect on our journey together and, when needed, refine our partnerships to ensure they continue to align with our evolving goals. This process allows us to either deepen our existing collaborations or form new alliances with organizations whose missions resonate with our vision for positive change.
A Year to Remember
This year’s Garden Party was particularly special. Thanks to the collective efforts of our students, staff, and extended community, we raised an impressive RM84,000 – a remarkable achievement that will drive positive change across our partnerships and fuel future service-learning activities. We’re more inspired than ever to aim higher in the years ahead, confident in our shared ability to achieve even more.
A Celebration of Collaboration
The Garden Party is not just about fundraising; it’s about coming together as a community. From the colorful stalls to the lively performances and engaging student-led activities, the event is a true celebration of unity, creativity, and shared purpose. It’s a day when we strengthen connections within our school while extending our support to those beyond our gates. In every way, the Garden Party exemplifies the power of collaboration and the importance of celebrating what we can accomplish together.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the success of this year’s event, we are filled with both gratitude and determination. The Garden Party serves as a powerful reminder of the difference we can make when we come together in service of others. It teaches us that while celebration is important, so too is the work of service and giving back. Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue this beloved tradition, nurture our partnerships, and set new benchmarks for what we can accomplish together.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s Garden Party. Whether you volunteered, donated, or simply participated, your involvement has made a meaningful difference. Together, let’s continue to work hand-in-hand to create a brighter, more compassionate future for all.
With gratitude,
The Service Learning Team
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