The Little Optimist is a non-profit organisation which was founded by Greg Bertish. He is well-known for his passion and determination to help children who are struggling in the hospital by giving them hope and bringing a little joy back into their lives. His story is a very inspiring one. Greg Bertish is a multiple cardiac surgery survivor. He works with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Children’s Hospital Trust and is an Ambassador for the Friends of the Children’s Association at Red Cross Hospital. The Little Optimist’s mission is to inspire many, raise funds for those in need, and to just do good! Learn more about Greg’s story here.
Connecting with Kids
The Little Optimist children’s book is a story of a little boat with a big heart and was created by Greg Bertish to help teach sick and needy kids that they should never give up. The Optimist boat is used as a metaphor to help him connect with children and to inspire them to get better – a small boat with a big heart. Through each book Greg sells, an amount is donated and another book is delivered to a child in need of a little hope. The book is printed on recycled paper. Click here if you are interested in buying a book.
Optimistic Projects
The Optimistic Sailing Academy teaches less fortunate children how to sail. They have done a lot for those in need and continue to do more every day. Greg raised R300 000 together with sponsors, that went towards a new Intensive Care Unit at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital through this project. They gave the hospital a new make-over by fixing and painting the front of the hospital. They also do conservation projects and Greg is also the founder of the Shark Spotter Program. If you want to help them make a difference go check out their website and see where you can get involved.
How Ullman Sails are involved
The Little Optimist has made an impact in so many people’s lives and given so many children hope, who wouldn’t want to be apart of an organisation that makes such a big impact in peoples lives? Ullman Sails has an ongoing sponsorship with the Little Optimist which means if they have an event and need new sails and some gear for a race or event, we are happy to help them with whatever we can. The Little Optimist Trust has a Platinum Sponsor, Two Oceans Marine, and two Gold Sponsors, Ullman Sails and Italtile. Their sponsors provide them with much needed operational funding so that they are able to continue the great work we do. Ullman Sails is proud to be helping such a valuable organisation.