1st Strandfontein Scouts Group renovated and cleaned up the Ebenezer Old Age Home garden to honor their “recycled youths” on Mandela Day.
Garden before Scouts intervention
“We decided to give back on Madiba’s birthday because of the valuable service he had given to all South Africans during his reign as President of this country. He was also our Scouting Patron ad we felt it was also a way of honoing his legacy,” explains Chantal Steer, Scouter at 1st Strandfontein. “We decided on this activity because we wanted to honor our “recycled youth” – as they like calling themselves – in our community. We wanted to let them know that they are still needed as feeling needed and appreciated is very important to everyone and we wanted to let them know just that.”
On the day 8 Scouts, 4 Cubs and 7 Parents gave back to their community. They cleaned up the garden at the old age home so the elders could relax outdoors, set out a table full of tasty goodies and enjoyed a real tea party together. Scouts also gave some of the recycled youthful ladies manicures and pedicures.
“I think these type of activities provide our Cubs and Scouts with a new perspective on life. Life can be hard and when you’re feeling down, your problems can seem insurmountable. Volunteering can offer you a new perspective. Seeing people with bigger problems then you stay strong and positive, can help you see your life in a whole new light. Doing something for the community you live in and returning the favour to those who have helped you, are strong motivators to keep on going. Everyone, rich or poor, takes from society, and volunteering is one way to show a sense of appreciation. Loneliness and boredom are common among retirees so by volunteering we hope to have relieves some of this sense of social isolation.”
garden after completion
When asked what the highlight of the day was, Chantal replied “All the children and parents unanimously agreed that teamwork pays off and seeing smiles all around and a sense of achievement was the highlight of the day. But the smiles on the faces of the residents was priceless. We aim to visit the home on a monthly basis from now on.”
For more information or to share your projects: email pr@scouting.org.za.