Lionel Cohen, who is part of eight permanent staff members at Dorcas Aid, is a director who started as a volunteer, and then went on to become a driver for the organisation.
He recently spoke to the Roodepoort Record and said that he loves what he does, which is giving back to his community.
The organisation, which is based in Florida, has eight volunteers on the register and said that they are all about being a light in their community.
Lionel started in 2008 and said that the work they do resonates closely with his heart as his love for giving started from a young age.
“We all work from the heart and not from the pocket. We love what we do, which is helping others in need,” Lionel reiterated.
What he loves most about serving his community is the hope and joy they bring to the needy.
“Giving to people who do not have what we have – sometimes just a simple thank you means a lot for us.”
As all jobs have their ups and downs, Lionel shared some of his experiences and said that it is very sad to see the destitute pass away because of the cold weather.
“We have had some very sad experiences with homeless people passing away purely because of the cold weather, and it is also sad to see people going to the local clinic and getting medication and not having anything to eat for a while,” Lionel cited and added that they assist by giving them a meal.
The organisation stems from international roots. Established in 1994 by the Dutch organisation, Dorcas Aid International, the Florida organisation is currently working on seven projects, including social care whereby they provide soup kitchens, ECD facilities, food gardens, computer training, disaster management, and laundry services to homeless people.
Their shop sells donated goods to support their projects and pays for their salaries and rent. They also offer collection services with branded vehicles.
As the organisation has its own vehicles to collect items, donations of any kind would be appreciated; anything from clothing items, food, or monetary will be appreciated. You can
send an email to fundraising@dorcas.co.za or contact 073 315 2112 for assistance.
