No matter where you look there is always an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. There will always be someone less fortunate then you. There will always be a shelter in need. There will always be animals and the environment to care for. We’ve explored the heart of the city and found three winter initiatives you can get involved with this winter to make a positive impact in your community.
They plant trees through urban greening and reforestation projects, spread environmental awareness, and activate people through green festivals and workshops across Southern Africa. So how can you get involved?
• Gift a tree!It’s only R100 (purchase via their website), and Greenpop will plant your tree at a tree-needy school or a tree-needy forest. Email info@greenpop.org for more information.
• Go planting!Greenpop has planting days every Wednesday, and is always looking for helpful volunteers. Simply sign up on their website for up-to-date information about activation days.
• Organise a team planting day!Greenpop takes corporate groups out to plant trees, build team relationships, reconnect with nature and get their hands dirty. Email info@greenpop.org to make a booking.
• Intern or volunteer!Looking to become involved long-term? Email info@greenpop.org for information about internship opportunities.
Show You Care, originally known as Give Responsibly, is a “call to action” developed by the Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) and the Social Development Department. The call is to support the six primary NGO partners in the Cape Town CBD, who provide alternatives to begging and initiative to aid the destitute. These range from rehabilitation services, skills training and education, to the possibility of shelter or family reintegration.
Would you be willing to get involved by donating your time by volunteering or money? You can donate immediately or visit their website for more information. Also, know that this isn’t just one of the many winter initiatives – it runs all year through.
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
If you love animals and would like to make a difference to the lives of rescued and homeless furry or feathered friends, then why not consider becoming part of the SPCA’s special group of volunteers. Also known as animal angels, this is also one of the winter initiatives that get the kids involved too. There are various ways to participate, including exercising dogs, cleaning cages and grooming cats; alternatively, you can also make food and gift donations if you can’t volunteer your time. Those interested in volunteering at the SPCA can attend a volunteer orientation session. Find out more on their website.
If you prefer not to limit your contributions to one organisation, you can help crowd fund a number of initiatives online. For example, the Youth Development Programme in Hout Bay, Streetscapes job creation or rebuilding the community of Mitchells Plein after the Cape Storm.
Go out of your way this winter to give a little and make a big difference.
