Sobambisana (ZAF-29)

Type: Education: Primary school - Country: South Africa

Brief description and main aims

Sobambisana (meaning togetherness) is a NPO dedicated to support and develop the community. It was established in 1987 with the motto “Christianity in Action”. Sobambisana aims to improve the quality of life in the community, develop the potential of the people they serve, and give them hope, dignity and self worth. They reach most of the most vulnerable groups in the community including children disabled and aged. They focus on aspects such as early childhood development old age care, family enrichment, training and education.  

Main Activities

• Educare for 140 pre school children aged 2 to 6.
• Special day care for 35 children with disabilities is provided. Parents are also taught to care for their children.
• After school care for  80 learners A safe environment away from crime, violence and drugs is provided with a snack.  Homework help is offered in a library to assist them with their studies.
• Programmes for  25 elderly people.
• Enrichment training for parents is presented to groups of about 15 parents at a time with focus on aspects such as early childhood development old age care, family enrichment, training and education

Volunteer tasks

• After School - helping children age 6 – 10 years old to read.
• Special Education assistance with disabled children. stimulation in activities to develop their muscles and speech.
• Helping with maintenance of the premises by cutting the lawn and cleaning the premises.
• Working in the vegetable garden
• Assisting at the educare centre by teaching the children and cleaning the classrooms
• Maintaining the book and toy libraries.
• Working with the men at the senior centre

Volunteer requirements / Skills

• Administrative skills
• English language
• Self motivated
• Creative
• Ability to communicate with young children
• Be hands on with the children and flexible
• Have a passion for working with vulnerable and disabled children.

Location

The organisation a based in a black township, the  main language spoken being Xhosa. It is close to the township called Gugulethu. It’s about 20km away from the city centre (cape Town). There are internet cafes that one can utilise. Buses and mini taxis are main of transportation 

Duration

Minimum: 4 weeks

Maximum: 16 weeks

Hosting Situation (Board and Lodging)

Accomodation and food will be provided by the Host Family.