FINDING the need to change the narrative and spread love among children in the Wentworth area, Tania Smith founded her organisation, Project Genesis, which aims to uplift and unify children of all ages.
Project Genesis was launched earlier this year and embarked on their second outreach programme recently.
Also read: Help make Christmas Fair in aid of children’s home one to remember
Project Genesis conducts their programmes from the premises of Swift K9 Services, situated in Amoora Road in Austerville, Wentworth, where children who join the programme are provided with the opportunity to interact with and learn about specialised K9s, which are trained for protecting.
The programme also included a motorbike display, where members of the No Problems Motorcycle Club taught children about the different types of motorbikes and safety.
Trainers from Swift K9 Services helped spark a love for furry friends and taught children about the different breeds of dogs, as well as the benefits of having a dog as a pet.
Smith said she was thrilled to see the children learn in a relaxed environment.
“The children and youth came from different areas around Wentworth and interacted with each other. We surprised them further with delicious bunnies which we served as lunch.
“Special thanks go to Captain Gregory Beavon, his team from the Metro Police Street Crime Unit, and Claude Boucher from Swift K9 Services for interacting with the children and answering questions regarding law enforcement.
“The aim of our programme was to show our youth of Wentworth that they are loved regardless of race, colour or creed. I have always had the calling to help people, and with our community now ravished with drugs and violence, I knew I had to start Project Genesis.
“Swift K9 Services prides itself on community involvement initiatives which include collaborations with local community policing forums and K9 awareness campaigns at schools and local events, and they also lend support to animal welfare organisations through donations.
Also read: Tree-planting initiative benefits community
“We are grateful for their support and partnership, and we welcome other businesses or organisations to team up with us to help create new beginnings and opportunities for children and youth in Wentworth,” Smith added.
Project Genesis will host their next programme at the Swift K9 Services premises on Amoora Road on October 29, at 13:00.
To get involved, call Tanya Smith on 084 697 8911 or email projectgenesis917@gmail.com.
For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram.
