Mustangs
Helping to Fulfill Bucket List of Former Student
Mustangs once
again banded together in the name of a cause as they helped the Rawlingsā
family accomplish fulfilling a wish for their late son, Matt Rawlings.
Rawlings, who was
a student at Vincent Massey Secondary School, died on August 19, 2012, but left
behind a āBucket Listā---- a compilation of 50 hopes and dreams for his future. Although he was only 18 years old, many of
Mattās aspirations demonstrated a kindheartedness, generosity, and maturity
beyond his years. Having more meaningful
relationships with siblings, becoming a good father, and helping the homeless
are just some examples of accomplishments he wished to undertake.
Massey teacher
Mrs. Frye, who had coached Matt for four out of his five years on the soccer
team, was fortunate to have the opportunity to watch him grow and mature into a
caring and generous young man. It was
through this experience with Matt that she found the motivation to support the
Rawlings family with fulfilling Mattās wish of helping the homeless by
participating in the Sharing the Warmth Campaign. Throughout the campaign, Mrs. Frye was able
to collect five sleeping bags and approximately $600 in Canadian Funds from
individuals, classes, and the community.
Thanks to Joeās
Army Navy Supply in Waterford, MI, Mrs. Frye was able to purchase new and used
sleeping bags at a substantial discount, along with 30 wool winter hats. Furthering his generous spirit, the owner
then donated 40 recalled hooded sweatshirts to the cause.ā
On
Monday November 24th, the Rawlings family came to Massey and were able to
collect the sweatshirts, winter hats, and 24 sleeping bags from Mrs. Fryeās
students. In total, the Rawlings family collected approximately 630 total
sleeping bags---and there were almost 800 in total with what was brought in
directly to the charity itself. All
items were donated in Mattās name on what would have been his 21st
birthday to Street Help Charity.
It is easy to see that Mattās kind
and generous spirit lives on through his wishes to help those in need. In working together to see his bucket list
filled, Mattās kindness will continue to shine on those who will be comforted
by this generosity. The warmth that this
compassion will spread to those who are facing a harsh winter without shelter
will continue to keep his memory alive in the hearts of those he has helped.
