Meet Cassidy Hendricks, 9 | the young philanthropist rallying support for Fairmount High's cycling team

Little 9-year-old Cassidy Hendricks has proven that determination and a heart full of generosity can move mountains. 

The spirited youngster from Ferndale Primary School who is known for her reading skills, this time decided to step into the field of philanthropy- by helping the cycling team of Fairmount High school get ready for the Cycle Tour this weekend.

This year, Cassidy began funding her own participation in reading competitions, demonstrating an entrepreneurial flair by launching a crafts industry from scratch. 

Guided by her grandmother, Brenda Tommy, Cassidy started creating inspirational bookmarks, selling them to family and friends. 

Her initial aim was simple: raise enough money to cover the cost of her blazer for the upcoming South African Literary Awards (SALA) competition. 

However, once she achieved that goal, Cassidy didn’t stop. 

She began crafting bespoke painted tiles, two of which she proudly gifted to St Andrews Technical High School in Elsies River and her own school, Ferndale Primary.

Despite her growing success, Cassidy realised that, in order to keep her stock of tiles fresh, she would need to sell more to fund her materials. 

The call for assistance from Fairmount High School’s cycling coordinator and deputy principal, Bruce Anthony, soon reached the ears of Cassidy, who quickly set to work seeking help for much-needed apparel and nutritional products for the team.

Cassidy was able to purchase and receive donations of vital items like helmets, cycling pants, and tops, as well as refreshments for the day.

The final push towards her goal came with a wave of prayers and supplications, resulting in generous contributions from various local businesses. 

Cassidy secured support from Aquelle, who donated bottled water and sports drinks; Ben, who provided cycling tops; Bioteen Health, who supplied sports drinks and bottles; and her printing company, Authentic Printing, which offered to print her bespoke labels and cover courier fees.

“I decided to help because I know not everyone is in the same boat when it comes to attending events. I decided to help my community, because charity starts at home,” Cassidy said.

Anthony called Cassidy, a little philanthropist with the heart of an angel.

“We cannot say thank you enough. Cassidy is truly like an angel, the fact that a young girl like this can look past herself to help others should be an example to all of us.”