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GreaterGood News
April 2009
Giving, the African way
Sparked in part by the tough economic climate, philanthropic ideas and stereotypes are being redefined at a global level. GreaterGood SA researcher Annie Devenish looks at what South Africa can contribute to the debate, discussing the idea of ubuntu and how we can apply it in our communities. Find out more
Creating a nation of readers
Last year, hundreds of generous givers made our 2008 Donate-a-Book campaign a success by sponsoring R80 000 worth of books for under-resourced pre-schools in South Africa. In total, 1 000 books were given to 10 pre-schools, changing the lives of countless children. Read More
Easter 'eggs' that change lives
This year, spare a thought for those who won't be tucking into chocolates over Easter and consider some alternative presents for the family. GreaterGood SA's popular gifting site Gifts4Good is an online shop that offers fun gifts - with a difference. You can buy gifts like fruit trees for a community orchard, a food parcel for a hungry child, or a sterilisation for a stray animal. The gifts, which range from R50 to R5 000, support ten critical development sectors in South Africa and make a very real difference to people facing very real problems. Buying a gift is quick and easy - you pick the pressie, personalise a gift card, and presto, your gift changes lives.
Gifts4Good is great for any special occasion - from birthdays, to anniversaries and even Mother's Day.
Should greyhound racing be legalised?
The Department of Trade and Industry is seeking input on whether greyhound racing should be legalised. The SPCA is opposed to it on the grounds of animal cruelty – dog racing has been banned in South Africa since 1945. Other stakeholders have cited numerous social problems. What do you think? Take our poll and vote yes or no. For more information, or to comment, you can email the independent facilitator, Professor Elizabeth Snyman-Van Deventer of the University of the Free State, who is collating research on the issue for the Department of Trade and Industry.
Good citizens
Last month we polled how many readers had registered to vote in the upcoming elections.
We were pleased to see that 86% of you said yes, while just 14% said no. Now all that's left to do is cast your vote on 22 April.
Good views
Building community philanthropy
Traditionally, philanthropy has been defined by the rich helping the poor - not the poor helping the poor. But the times are evolving, and the role of impoverished communities as both receivers and givers is being recognised. We managed to catch up with Susan Wilkinson-Maposa, co-author of The Poor Philanthropist, before she flew to America, to hear her thoughts on community philanthropy in South Africa. Read more
Good connections
- Do you have a heartwarming story of giving or receiving that took place via our site? We'd love to hear it. Drop us a line
- Need a hand with writing and publicity? Ize Goldwasser would like to help. View request
- Calling all handymen and women – LifeLine/ChildLine Western Cape need some help with their repairs and maintenance before winter sets in.View request
- GreaterGood SA is now on Facebook and Twitter. Please add us to your lists and keep up to date on the latest news and events.
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