#WonderWednesday: Rasheera Dopson Inspires Georgia Students

Photo Credit: Bobby Haven, The Brunswick News 

Rasheera drove four hours to share her story with over 250 middle school students at Risley Middle School in Brunswick, Georgia. She spoke about living with and advocating for people born with facial differences like her. Rasheera was born with Goldenhar syndrome. Her words were "inspiring and kept our students engaged throughout her entire presentation," said one Risley Middle School teacher. 

In honor of Rasheera's visit to their school, students held a lucrative "penny war" where they raised $500 for CCA. We are all so grateful for Risley students' generosity.

Not only were the teachers and students impressed, but the local newspaper covered Rasheera's stirring story, too. They also took some amazing pictures of Rasheera in action as she worked the packed gymnasium of students who recently read the book "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio.

Many are reading Palacio's New York Times bestselling book, which was made into a film in 2017. CCA urges schools, teachers, church groups, Girl Scout Troops, and others to contact them to recommend a speaker that lives near them. We also have a number of lesson plans for "Wonder" and curriculum for other grade levels that accompany other books on empathy, anti-bullying, and kindness. You can learn more about all these educational offerings on our website under the "Educators" menu tab.