Nathanial Pope made his parents and community proud this past weekend when he turned a special birthday gift into an opportunity for not only the city but also Northern Alberta.
The story begins simply enough, the eight-year-old had always wanted to ride in a Chevrolet Camaro. To help make that birthday wish a reality, his family put the feelers out on Facebook, and, as things have a tendency to do on social media, the idea exploded.
Pope’s dream to ride in the iconic sports car not only came true, but turned into an all-out event. A show and shine was organized by a variety of Alberta car clubs, surprising Pope with a fleet of Camaros and other vintage cars.
While many children Pope’s age would have simply enjoyed their gift, this young man did something that should inspire not only others his age, but the community as whole.
Wanting the help other children’s wishes and dreams come true, he turned the impromptu show into a fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Northern Alberta. The charitable organization endeavours to grant the wishes of children living with life-threatening medical conditions.
With some help, the event raised a little more than $2,600 to help put smiles on the faces of children around Alberta.
Pope should serve as inspiration not only to others his age, but also the community as a whole. In an age where people question the moral fortitude of young people, our society needs more youths with a similar penchant for altruism.
