Now or never for SPCA
The main reason SPCAs have closed over the past 20 years is the lack of community support. Let's help ours. Details here...
The SPCA is in need of new dedicated persons who are able to commit time, effort and expertise to ensure its survival.
Franci Swanepoel, manager of the Randfontein and Westonaria SPCAs, explained that the two SPCAs are in the process of amalgamating, and that they will need to appoint a new management committee.
“We would like to take this opportunity to inform you that Lucy and Trevor Phillips are no longer involved with the SPCA. We would like to thank them for the years of hard work they put in, and for making a difference in the welfare of many abused, abandoned and neglected animals.
“We are, however, in need of new dedicated members who are passionate about our SPCA and willing to help ensure that our doors stay open. Each SPCA is an independent registered non-profit organisation, responsible for its own survival. Of course, the key factor is funding, especially as no financial support is received from government and any income from a municipal source is not a grant but payment for services rendered, either in connection with enforcing by-laws or taking in stray animals.”
She added that it may surprise many people to learn that the main reason SPCAs have closed in the past 20 years is the lack of community support.
“Each SPCA needs an elected Management Committee (or “Board”) comprised of local people. This is the body which directs, plans, organises and ensures the future of the SPCA. In instances when an insufficient number of people from the surrounding community can be found to undertake this function, the SPCA has floundered and closure has followed.
“Please do not let this happen in your area. An appeal is made not to take the SPCA for granted but to be part of its future and the solution to animal welfare in your district. The SPCA provides a service which is essential to the animals and the community. Far too often when an SPCA is in financial difficulty, well-meaning people come forward offering to help by raising funds. This is deeply appreciated but ensuring the existence of an SPCA is an around-the-clock function and firmly vested in the community.”
Swanepoel added, “Please enquire to find out what skills are needed and how you may be able to help. Individuals especially with business backgrounds, may submit a short CV to Franci Swanepoel at manager.randwest@gmail.com.”
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
