About the Program
The main objective is the facilitation of poverty prevention/reduction programs and uplifting
the settlements; we aim to create self-sufficient and thriving communities. Poverty reduction is such an important issue for SAVE Foundation because we are situated on the outskirts of Cape Town and confronted on a daily basis with the poverty and dire living situations that a large portion of the population exists in every day. Volunteers on this project can expect to be part of various campaigns and projects to improve the living conditions for individuals within local settlements (we mainly assist the Wolverivier Settlement). Employment and education opportunities are also provided where possible.
Poverty reduction
is such an important issue for SAVE Foundation
because of the location where we are situated. In Tableview, on the outskirts
of Cape Town, we are confronted on a daily basis with the poverty and dire
living situations that a large portion of the population exists in every day.
Through the operation SAVE, we aim to reduce poverty and
make our local and national community the best that it can be.
For example, we have instituted programs such as a swap shop, where community members can exchange labor (such as working at one of the vegetable gardens we have created or assisting with construction and maintenance) for goods like clothing and groceries.
Settlement volunteers will be involved in various initiatives depending on the needs of the community at the time. Volunteer tasks can include, but are not limited to: assisting to repair structures in the community (especially during the winter months when rain leakage is an issue), cultivating community vegetable gardens, developing new sustainable initiatives such as a recycling program, and distributing donations among the community members.
Volunteers will work alongside a volunteer leader and authorities within the community to assess and respond to specific needs. The day-to-day activities can vary depending on the project at the time; volunteers can split their time between working in the SAVE office to plan an initiative with their volunteer leader and implementing this initiative within the settlement community of Wolverivier.
2 Day Cape Town Orientation
DAY 1: Friday
You are collected from the airport and taken to your volunteer accommodation. You will be shown around and given a map of the area. Depending on your arrival time, you will meet your volunteer leader and learn more about your project, if you arrive late you will be given a time that you will meet your leader. You have the day at your own leisure so you can explore the beach, shops, bars and restaurants. In the evening we have a traditional South African BBQ, called a braai, at the hostel.
DAY 2: Saturday
Start the day with breakfast and head to Saltycrax backpackers.
A SaltyCrax staff member will teach you about the bus system before you head out to Cape Town city centre.
You have two options to choose from:
1. Walking Tour:
Do a walking tour visiting historical sites like the Castle of Good Hope and the Grand Parade. Learn about life under apartheid in South Africa at the Parliament Buildings and the District Six Museum. Shop for African arts and crafts in Greenmarket Square and St George’s Mall.
2. The hop on hop off bus pass:
Board this open rooftop bus that takes you to all the sites you need to see, such as Camps Bay, the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain… all from the comfort of your seat!
After one of the above activities you can take a bus or walk to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Sit back and sip a cocktail, enjoy some fresh fish and watch the ships in the busy working harbour or walk around taking in the shops, markets and musicians on the side walks. Alternatively, you can take the cable car up Table Mountain and enjoy breathtaking views of the city, or visit the famous Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was held in prison during the apartheid era (own expense).
In the evening head back on the local bus to Table View where you can start planning your next day. We will help you book and arrange all that you need. Later, you can join the staff, guests and the locals at one of the restaurants or bars along the beach front in Table View – all within rolling distance from the hostel where you will be staying the night.
Day 3: Sunday
You will have at your own leisure to relax and get ready before your projects starts.
Typical Tasks
Volunteers will help in the daily running of the project, for example:
- Teaching in the educare centres
- Running fun days and sports activities
- Teaching computers skills
- Educating children in life lessons such as HIV, drugs etc
- Teaching adults in the community
- Helping with events
- Fundraising
- Office admin
- This program is very flexible and open to ideas volunteers have about supporting the community
Project Highlights
- Working with the educare centers
- Working in settlements with disadvantaged families
- Creating your own educational programs to teach children
- Supporting and training adults
- Learning about running a non-‐profit organization
- Gain experience in working with children and groups
- Flexible projects and hours
- Learning about South African cultures and way of life
- Making new life time friends
(54)
Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Families
Groups
