South Africa
Aspen shares the Madiba magic
Aspen's 2011 inaugural participation in the Nelson Mandela Day campaign took the form of a multi-phased initiative intended to mobilise employees to give back to their communities. The Rekopane Inclusive Development Centre based in Germiston, Gauteng, was selected as Aspen's first Mandela Day beneficiary.
Some 35 employees volunteered to contribute to the programme through donations and by participating in activities at the beneficiary's location. The team worked seamlessly to improve the environment for 45 previously disadvantaged mentally and physically challenged children who are based at Rekopane.
Activities included cleaning and re-painting the centre, refurbishing bedrooms with new curtains and bedding, improving the bathrooms, and upgrading the electricity supply. Extensive work was also carried out landscaping the gardens and installing an irrigation system, planting a vegetable garden and creating outdoor play areas.
Significant improvements were made to the kitchen and food preparation areas and an array of new equipment was donated.
The all important therapy room was vastly improved as were various entertainment areas used by the children for leisure and relaxation.
Throughout the activity, Aspen's team was united with a spirit of selfless joy and tireless commitment, which was a blessing to witness.
Nothing was too much trouble for them as they opened their hearts on this very special occasion. They gave generously in so many ways as they made a very meaningful difference in the lives of this small less fortunate community.
