Lerato Educational Centre strives to change lives

THE Lerato Educational Centre is striving to make a daily difference in the lives of poor and needy children in the Lerato informal settlement.

Sister Mary Hughes helped to start the centre about 15 years ago and René Parker, who runs the centre, has been involved for eight years. René visited the settlement and the need of the children compelled her to get involved on a more regular and practical basis.

Every July, learners from the surrounding areas come to help with the preparation of lunch and to play soccer with the children. René says they have had volunteers from Waterstone College, Marion College, Bracken High School, St Martins School, Covenant College and several other schools as well.

“It is good for privileged teenagers to be exposed to the reality of this life. They become more compassionate and grateful for what they have. I hope I’ve instilled in them the desire to inspire others to make a difference as well. It’s easy to donate food or give old clothing, but to come in and spend time with these very poor and needy children just changes their frame of mind,” said René.

She has also started a netball team, a boys soccer team and recently added a girls soccer team to the mix. “Taking these teens off the street and on to the field to play sport and become part of a team is mind-blowing. The change in them is phenomenal. A lot of the boys are heads of homes, who bring up their siblings and now have become the perfect role models for them.”

Local resident Joseph Mahlatsane is the soccer coach and mentor, who looks out for the 45 strong boys squad and the 13 new soccer girls. Recently, five boys were scouted by the Diggers Soccer Club.

If you want to become involved in this life changing project, contact René on 083 414 6144 or email reneparker4@goal.com