Apartheid ended in 1995 which means that many of the children who were born just before that time are now turning 18. Many programs have been created for the young children in this community but the young adults have for the most part been neglected which has resulted in many 18+ young men in particular losing hope for the future. Throughout their life they have been subject to extreme racism, chronic poverty and taught by society that no matter what they do in life, no matter how hard they work they will still fail. This negative life experience has resulted in many of these young adults falling victim to dropping out of school, abusing drugs, disconnecting from the community and sadly even crime.
The elders of this community have requested that this negative trend end today and I am very pleased to announce that we are now in the position to grant this community what they have long asked for, a special soccer team devoted to these neglected young men.
Soccer is much more than "just a sport", it is an opportunity to escape the harsh realities of life in Thembalethu, it is a chance to laugh, and have fun in a team environment, something these boys rarely get to do.
Becoming a member of this team has special privileges as well as expectations. Members of the team will also be required to return to school to finish their education. On a weekly basis the members of this team will also engage in community volunteerism and take on such activities as helping the youngest children with their reading, working in the gardens belonging the elders to ensure that they have adequate food, as well as one on one mentor-ship with well respected adults in the community.
The long term effects of this special team will make an incredible impact on these boys and the community. By learning to love and respect themselves and by helping the other community members these boys will become positive and respected members of this strong community.
Fund Raising is currently taking place, if you would like to contribute to this leadership opportunity please click the Donate button below. Your gift, big or small will make positive and lasting change in this community.
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Catherine Robar
Founding Director
The Themba Development Project
http://www.thembaproject.org/
Donate today, it all adds up to ending chronic poverty! http://www.paypal.com/
One person, One community CAN change the world, we have already begun!
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