Reach for A Dream Foundation launched their annual Slipper Day at Melrose Arch which raises money to make dreams come true.
The foundation, which will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, helps make dreams come true for children with terminal illnesses.
Slipper Day started in 2011 and encourages people to buy a wristband for R10, which allows them to wear their slippers to work or school.
This year, Slipper Day will be held on 11 May. All the funds raised from the wristbands go toward the dream fulfilment.
The launch was an emotional time for many of the people involved with the foundation, who shared how the children have made an impact on their lives. Celebrity ambassadors, including Jonathan Boyton-Lee and Shashi Naidoo, also participated by wearing their fluffy slippers and encouraging others to participate.
Mervyn Serebro, the chairman of the board for Reach for A Dream, was emotional when talking about his love for the work that the foundation does. Serebro has lost both of his children and said that the foundation has helped him deal with his own pain.
“Every time we reach a life and make the impossible possible, I am reminded of my own children,” said Serebro.
“We have touched the lives of 45 000 children. We have never not fulfilled a dream, regardless of what that dream may be, regardless of its simplicity or complexity. It isn’t about meeting the rich and famous, it’s about making what children really wish for happen.”
Boyton-Lee said that some of the most important lessons he has learned have been from the children from Reach for A Dream. “Their strength, their tenacity, their sheer stubbornness to give up despite the odds and living life to the fullest are some of the things that I have learned.
“Anyone who knows the team knows that they are the closest thing to angels that you will ever meet, the work that they do is incredible.”
The wristbands are available for purchase from Pick ‘n Pay stores, Wimpy branches and Reach for A Dream branches. Wearing slippers and showing a wristband will also entitle the wearer to a free coffee from Wimpy.
Details:
Reach for A Dream: 011 880 1740
Will you be taking part in Slipper Day? Share your pictures with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page.
