Erin, 13, South Africa

Basic need(s):

Health

Project:

"The Chaeli Campaign"

When Erin's younger sister Chaeli, who has cerebral palsy, was placed in a mainstream school at the age of 9, she needed the help of a motorized wheelchair to increase her independence. This led Erin, Chaeli and three of their friends to join together to raise money for the needed wheelchair. In just seven weeks they raised more than enough money and decided to help provide assistive devices to other children with disabilities. This led to the creation of "The Chaeli Campaign," a nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing the minds and bodies of children with disabilities in South Africa. Since the project began, it has helped provide more than 150 children with custom-made assistive devices, has put over 85 children in support therapy programs and has inspired countless adults and children to rethink their views about people with disabilities. "The Chaeli Campaign" recently opened its own headquarters and hopes to open its own therapy center soon. For more information, please visit www.chaelicampaign.co.za

Photo: Benjamin Quinto