Your R50 will help SA Guide Dogs change the world for 500 visually impaired people

The SA Guide Dogs Association’s College of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

Marketing co-ordinator for the association Nicole Barros explained that the college has been at the forefront of training O&M practitioners over these five decades, successfully skilling 180 such practitioners who, in turn, have collectively reached over 100 000 visually impaired people.

“Over the last 10 years alone, we’ve provided about 7 000 assistive devices and given ten years of direct services,” she added.

It is in this spirit that the association is excited to launch the Give a Cane campaign.

It’s a nationwide endeavor aimed at raising R550 000 to buy canes for the 500 visually impaired people on their waiting list.

The campaign runs from April 8 to July 18 and valued donors and the public are urged to get involved.

By supporting the Give a Cane campaign, even through a donation of only R50, you can help them to continue their vital work, ensuring they can train more practitioners and clients for at least another 50 years, provide more assistive devices and uphold a commitment to freedom and independence.

Here are a few ideas on how you can get involved:

• Donate R50;

• Host a donation drive – each employee at the office donates R50 and appeals to others to do the same;

• Host a walk-a-thon, step-a-thon or blindfolded activity day at your office, office park, community or school;

• Host a casual day or dress up day at your office;

• Host a lucky draw in your community or office;

• Set up a collection box at your office or business;

• Set a personal record by walking, running or cycling 50km and get sponsored; and

• Take part in online gaming for SA Guide Dogs.

The possibilities are endless.

In return, the South African Guide Dogs Association can offer:

• A Section 18A tax certificate for donations received.

• Support for your fundraising event by promoting it on their social media platforms or a visit with their O&M practitioners.

Visit www.guidedog.org.za to find out more about the campaign and how to set up your fundraising page.

Alternatively, email NicoleB@guidedog.org.za to discuss ideas or find out more about how to help the association.

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