THE saying ‘volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart’ aptly describes Durban North resident Tyra Bolton.
In a year that has seen unprecedented challenges for the poor and underprivileged, Bolton has risen to the need by volunteering her time and collecting on behalf of several NPOs and charities.
The Grade 10 learner at Danville Park Girls’ High School has been involved with the SPCA Blanket Drive, volunteering weekly at the PACT cattery (Phoenix Animal Care and Treatment) and supporting The Sweethearts Foundation by collecting Tags and Tops for their recycling fundraising for wheelchairs. She has also been involved in various soup kitchens and feeding programmes. Her latest project has been to appeal to the community for donations of baby items for the NPO ‘Open Arms’.
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“Initially my community service began as a result of being involved in The President’s Award, which is an internationally recognised programme which exists to equip youth to succeed in life and work. I began seeing more people in need and animal organisations struggling due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Through my mom I decided to help as many organisations as I could.
“I used WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram to spread the message that I was collecting items. My mom has been a huge inspiration and help because I wouldn’t have known of these charities without her input. For example with the SPCA, I put out an appeal for blankets and pet beds. I’ve also used my own pocket money to buy items for the charities I’m supporting. For me it’s been heartwarming to be able to give back like this and make a difference,” she said.
Bolton has also collected more than 5 000 bottle caps for the BreadTags and BottleTops campaign by picking up litter in her area on her walks and has also encouraged friends and families to donate bottlecaps to her collection.
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