Ross Garrett has been working since primary school, to give underprivileged children the sporting goods they need to make their dreams come true; his school has honoured his service in the best way!
Johannesburg, South Africa (15 June 2023) – Ross Garrett has been awarded his school colours for service to his school and the community. He has dedicated over 250 hours of service by working with his school and managing “Play It Forward Jozi”. Being committed to the betterment of sports in underprivileged communities, Ross’s school St Stithians Boys College have paid him a great honour for his efforts!
“Play It Forward” is a student-founded organisation collecting sporting equipment for underprivileged children and teens. Ross teamed up with his school friends in 2018 to make a difference in underprivileged communities when he was in primary school. They set up Play It Forward Jozi to make a difference in South Africa.
The boys decided to collect second-hand sporting equipment that could be sent to underprivileged children, schools and sporting clubs. They started collecting takkies and sports shoes, racquets, bats, hockey sticks, golf clubs, gloves and balls.
Over the years, they have kitted out many teams, including Central Joburg Blind Cricket, Alexandra Hub Cricket Club, and many more! Ross’s mother, Alison Garrett, has played a vital role in managing where the donations go, connecting the collections with the people who need them most.
The organisation continues to collect sporting goods that are gathering dust in people’s garages and bedrooms.
They welcome every kind of sporting good but sometimes they also have specific requests from teams or individuals. If you have anything to donate, you can email Alison here or check out the Play It Forward Jozi Facebook page here.
Ross’s commitment to serving his community goes beyond what he accomplishes through Play It Forward Jozi. He recently also applied for the position of Head of Community Engagement at the school going into his Matric year. So 2024 may very well be filled with even more goodness for Ross.
Well done young man! Your efforts are truly changing lives and creating dreams for young South Africans.
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