Call for Helpers Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/call-for-helpers/ Thu, 17 Oct 2024 08:53:43 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/cropped-gtg_favicon-32x32.png Call for Helpers Archives - Good Things Guy https://www.goodthingsguy.com/tag/call-for-helpers/ 32 32 South Africa Unites for Alison Botha as She Undergoes Brain Surgery  https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/south-africa-unites-for-alison-botha-as-she-undergoes-brain-surgery/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/south-africa-unites-for-alison-botha-as-she-undergoes-brain-surgery/#respond Thu, 17 Oct 2024 13:00:57 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=134043

South Africa is uniting for one of our strongest warriors, Alison Botha, who recently underwent a brain aneurysm—The same Alison who survived the unsurvivable after two men brutally raped her...

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South Africa is uniting for one of our strongest warriors, Alison Botha, who recently underwent a brain aneurysm—The same Alison who survived the unsurvivable after two men brutally raped her and left her for dead with more wounds than doctors could count. Now, all those she has inspired are standing behind her as she climbs this medical mountain!

 

Cape Town, South Africa (17 October 2024) — Alison Botha’s story is one many South Africans have shed tears over, felt indescribable rage about, and become inspired by—often in one sitting. Now, as Alison faces a medical mountain, South Africa and people across the world are uniting to help her push onward and upward.

Alison is known across the world as someone who went from survivor to warrior. In 1994, she faced unimaginable horrors when one December night changed her life forever.

Two men abducted Alison and took her to the outskirts of Port Elizabeth. She was raped violently, stabbed over 30 times, and left with her throat slit from ear to ear in the bushes, where she was as good as dead.

Except, Alison didn’t die. With every last ounce of strength she had left, Alison dragged herself to the road where a passing car found her. When she eventually received medical help, she had so many wounds doctors could not count them.

Alison’s decision in that moment was to deny death and to continue pushing on day after day, not simply as a survivor, but as a source of immense strength for countless women.

No one would’ve blamed Alison for losing herself to trauma. But, she chose a new life; one where she would help so many other women become warriors instead by seeing the power of choice to triumph over life’s hardships.

Today, Alison is a champion for GBV victims. Her book, I Have a Life—Alison’s Journey became a best-seller and the epitome of courage. She inspired WomanInpowered—an initiative that helps women protect themselves and won the Rotarian Paul Harris Award for ‘Courage Beyond the Norm’ among many other accolades.

While she might be a formidable warrior, Alison is also a human. And right now, her body is in a terrible predicament.

As her collaborating ghostwriter, Marianne Thamm, explains per Daily Maverick, Alison endured an aneurysm in late September where bleeding on the brain ensued.

She underwent surgery to stop the haemorrhage in Cape Town and is currently in and out of consciousness. Today, she is scheduled to undergo brain surgery to help with the fluid that has built up.

But, as Lynette Oxley of Girls On Fire explains, Alison does not have the medical aid to cover all this.

As such, her legal team have stepped forward to help Alison climb this medical mountain via a trust fund, and the support has been significant!

People from all over the world and country have sent their support, love and contributions. Alison has touched so many lives, and now people are paying it forward to ensure this battle is one she won’t go through alone.

Everyone who wishes to support this incredible South African can do so via the following:

Trust Details

Tania Koen Attorneys
Nedbank Trust Account No. 1302230492
International donations include SWIFT code NEDSZAJJ
Tania Koen (Legal Representative) tkatt@mweb.co.za


Sources: Various (Linked Above)
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Carve a Pumpkin and Support Joburg’s Wildlife Veterinary Hospital!  https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/carve-a-pumpkin-and-support-joburgs-wildlife-veterinary-hospital/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/carve-a-pumpkin-and-support-joburgs-wildlife-veterinary-hospital/#respond Wed, 16 Oct 2024 13:00:45 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=133945

The Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital have helped tens of thousands of indigenous animals for free over many years of impact! This spooky season, they’ve got a delicious fundraiser on the...

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The Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital have helped tens of thousands of indigenous animals for free over many years of impact! This spooky season, they’ve got a delicious fundraiser on the cards that anyone who loves pumpkin carving won’t want to miss.

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (16 October 2024) — For over seven years, the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital has helped tens of thousands of animals free of charge.

The first facility in South Africa to treat and rehabilitate the endangered Temminck’s pangolin and the team who have given many indigenous wildlife creatures a second chance—especially in cases of poaching or where animals have been a part of the wildlife trade—the impact of their work cannot be understated!

This October, the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital have carved out a clever fundraiser to support their hospital and continue the life-changing work they do. If you’ve ever wanted to carve a pumpkin creatively or do so as tradition; this is your sign to grab a pumpkin and get carving for a cause!

JWVH are inviting everyone who wants to support their work to carve either a spooky or cute pumpkin. The top 3 pumpkin carvings will win themed cakes for any spooky season celebrations; while the animal patients in their hospital will get to enjoy a pumpkin treat!

Everyone who enters will purchase a ticket at R100 (the fundraising portion of the gig) and one ticket permits one entry. Any kind of pumpkin variant is welcome. Once the carving is all done and you’ve taken a photo, drop off the pumpkin at the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital (101 Macgillivray Road, Midrand) between 9 am and 2 pm during the week, before 29 October at 5 pm when the entries close for the patients to enjoy.

Winners will be announced on 30 October and the top pumpkin creators will get to enjoy their cake winnings on 31 October onward; just in time for any Halloween-inspired parties.

You can secure your entry spot here, and don’t forget to email a photo of you with your pumpkin’s final look to info@jwvh.org.za!


Sources: Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Current Measures to Save African Penguins Need a Boost https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/current-measures-to-save-african-penguins-need-a-boost/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/current-measures-to-save-african-penguins-need-a-boost/#respond Thu, 10 Oct 2024 13:00:11 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=133324

Africa’s only penguin needs our help. But why are these seabirds facing extinction and what can we actually do to give them a boost? Is there anything? The answer is...

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Africa’s only penguin needs our help. But why are these seabirds facing extinction and what can we actually do to give them a boost? Is there anything? The answer is yes! Here’s what you need to know:

 

Cape Town, South Africa (10 October 2024) — With International African Penguin Awareness Day celebrated just yesterday, African Penguins are front of mind for many South Africans. But, we do have many questions. Are the measures attempting to protect the seabird from extinction effective? Or do they need a boost? Is enough being done? And how can we, as the public, actually make an effective change?

Need to Knows

  • The species has already lost 97% of its population
  • African Penguins are down to less than 10,000 breeding pairs
  • Estimations point to its extinction in the wild as soon as 2035

What’s Caused This?

The African penguin has faced numerous threats. But, a primary cause of the seabird’s decline is a lack of available food due to competition from commercial purse-seine small—pelagic fishing around its breeding colonies.

As CEO of Blue Marine, Clare Brook puts it succinctly:

“It would be a tragedy if we lost these wonderful iconic birds. And all because of greedy, thoughtless overfishing.”

What Are The Measures in Place to Fix The Penguin’s Plight?

Currently, no-take zones do exist (spots where fishing is prohibited to help restore fish populations for the penguins’ food source), but research by ornithologists has found that these zones are ineffective for penguin conservation.

Based on a recent study that evaluated different no-take zone scenarios around six major penguin colonies (that together support 76% of the global African Penguin population), it has been found that the majority of no-take zones are problematic. This is because they reportedly only restrict fishing in less than 50% of the penguins’ main feeding areas—meaning that the areas counting the most are not being protected effectively.

This essentially means that fisheries are still benefiting while the penguins suffer—not exactly great for the mood in the world of penguin conservation.

Giving Protective Measures a Boost

Scientists, including BirdLife South Africa’s Dr Alistair McInnes and the University of Exeter’s Dr Richard Sherley, have recommended alternative and achievable limits that provide better prospects for the penguins that won’t cause disproportionately high costs to the purse-seine fishing industry.

So, the main matter is one of litigation.

SANCCOB and BirdLife South Africa have united to take legal action to enforce greater protection of the species. The two non-profits instituted against the office of the South African Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to challenge the Minister’s ‘biologically meaningless’ island closures to purse-seine fishing around key African Penguin colonies.

Essentially, the legal work is trying to change the no-take zones for alternative zones that are better aligned to the important feeding areas.

These alternatives would hopefully give penguins a boost, reducing feeding competition and allowing fish stocks to be replenished!

In line with this SANCCOB, BirdLife South Africa and the Blue Marine Foundation recently launched a campaign focused on saving the African Penguin. A big part of it is a petition calling on the South African government to make the change! You can sign the petition here.

Ocean Heroes Unite

International action is needed from marine life lovers and ocean heroes around the world. South African free diver and social activist Zandi Ndhlovu (Zandi the Mermaid), for one, has launched an initiative to highlight the plight of the African Penguin in support of the petition and is the narrator of the new campaign video.

As Zandi says: “I urge the international community to sign our petition today to create a catalyst for immediate action—the South African government needs to take action now, before Africa’s only penguin is lost forever.”


Sources: Supplied
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Become a Puppy Raiser and Train a Hero with a Tail https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/become-a-puppy-raiser-and-train-a-hero-with-a-tail/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/become-a-puppy-raiser-and-train-a-hero-with-a-tail/#respond Fri, 04 Oct 2024 11:00:24 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=132631

This is not a drill! If raising puppies sounds like your dream ‘job’, then you’ll be thrilled to know that the SA Guide-Dogs Association is looking for puppy raiser volunteers!...

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This is not a drill! If raising puppies sounds like your dream ‘job’, then you’ll be thrilled to know that the SA Guide-Dogs Association is looking for puppy raiser volunteers!

 

South Africa (04 October 2024) — Training heroes with tails for a super cause is a pretty unique gig. Not only do you get to spend precious time as a puppy raiser, but you’ll also kickstart the young pooch’s journey as a life-changing pal who will go on to positively impact the lives of visually impaired and physically disabled people, as well as children on the Autism spectrum.

If raising a puppy for such an important cause sounds like your dream ‘job’, then we’ve got news that’ll make your ears perk up like a puppy hearing ‘walkies’.

The South African Guide-Dogs Association is in search of volunteers to help them raise puppies.

Puppy raiser

Here’s How it Works!

You will receive the puppy at around eight weeks old from the association along with a puppy pack that contains all the puppy essentials (a collar, lead, jacket, chew toy, treat bag and a blanket. Your puppy will also get access to vaccinations, deworming meds, and tick and flea protection throughout its time with you (all food and vet bills will be covered).

For the many months you two will be together (until the pup is 16 months old), there will be a lot of adventures to be had.

From cuddles and walks to training sessions, the puppy raiser will need to be prepared to spend a lot of time with their four-legged bestie. So, people who love taking their dogs everywhere they go would be perfect candidates!

As for the training sessions, the puppy raiser and the dog will need to attend once a week at the SA Guide Dogs’ premises. Classes are an hour long and run by a Puppy Raising Supervisor.

When 16 months flies by, the puppy will graduate to formal training. Puppy raisers will get to have their dogs at home with them over weekends and holidays, so it won’t be a goodbye just yet.

Once formal training is done and dusted, it’ll be time to let the dog off the leash as they match with a new person whose life will become one of freedom and independence thanks to the dog you raised. They’ll be all grown up and an official Guide Dog, Service Dog or Autism Support Dog.

Puppy Raiser Requirements

  • 18 years or older
  • A responsible dog lover
  • A calm and patient temperament
  • Physical fitness and capable of caring for a puppy
  • Flexible hours (even if you have a full-time office job)
  • Availability to attend the weekly training sessions on weekdays for 21 weeks during office hours
  • Availability to attend monthly or bi-monthly outings with the pup and other raisers
  • Have your own transport and a valid driver’s license
  • Be able to commit up to 16 months with the puppy

You can sign up by emailing AlidaP@guidedog.org.za and find more info at www.guidedog.org.za


Sources: Supplied—SA Guide-Dogs Association 
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Second Hand September Supports People with Intellectual Disabilities  https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/second-hand-september-supports-people-with-intellectual-disabilities/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/second-hand-september-supports-people-with-intellectual-disabilities/#respond Fri, 27 Sep 2024 14:00:23 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=131892

Second Hand September is using sustainable fashion choices to support people with intellectual disabilities, one pre-loved purchase at a time!   Cape Town, South Africa (27 September 2024) — This...

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Second Hand September is using sustainable fashion choices to support people with intellectual disabilities, one pre-loved purchase at a time!

 

Cape Town, South Africa (27 September 2024) — This month, leading Cape Town-based charity, The Oasis Association, has called on sustainable fashion lovers to do what they do best—shop and sift through clothes as part of Second Hand September—an initiative that’s supporting people with intellectual disabilities.

For the past 7 decades, The Oasis Association has played a huge role improving the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Through various projects and programmes, they help people reach their full potential and have even helped secure a Special Olympics Gold Medal for South Africa!

But, like any charity, funding is essential to keep the good work going. One way Oasis does this is through its Charity Shops; all of which are Cape Town-based.

As part of Second Hand September, they have invited sustainable shoppers to pop into any of the charity shops to cop new, pre-loved finds, or to donate the remnants of any spring cleans to these spaces.

You can find the shops here.

How Second Hand September Helps People and the Planet

The shopping and donating initiative will help finance Oasis’ Day Centres, specialised Workshops, and Group Homes that provide affordable and safe housing for up to 500 intellectually disabled individuals!

Beyond the exceptional cause, Second Hand September is also a fantastic way for shoppers to embrace a circular economy and support second-hand shopping as a way to reduce one’s carbon footprint, extend the lifecycle of clothing, and minimize waste.

Executive Director of the The Oasis Association, Gail Bester says, “We are hoping that the Second Hand September campaign, which was launched by Oxfam in the UK in 2019, can have a positive impact by making people more aware of the role fashion plays in the environment and encouraging the public to buy only second hand clothes for the month and support sustainable fashion. When you shop at any one of our charity shops in Claremont, Fish Hoek, or Elsies River your purchases play a direct role in changing the lives of our beneficiaries, for good.”

“When you shop pre-loved fashion, you play a vital part in extending the lifecycle of items that could’ve ended up in a landfill. Oasis Charity Shops offer a win-win experience for our customers as they guarantee affordability, sustainability, and style, providing an alternative to mass-produced fashion while helping to change lives.

“The profit generated from donated items provide employment opportunities for our beneficiaries, allowing them to develop to their full potential in a supportive environment,” concludes Gail.

Proceeds from Oasis Charity shops go directly back into the organisation’s various programmes, helping to provide social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, sports and recreational support to the organisation’s many beneficiaries.

In fact, 100% of the proceeds from Oasis Charity shops go back to supporting Oasis projects for their beneficiaries. So, every cent spent on a thrift fashion or home item makes a positive impact in someone’s life. A difference that can be seen and experienced when you visit Oasis Charity Shops.

To donate pre-loved or unwanted goods to The Oasis Association you can also drop off these items at the Oasis Charity Shop in Claremont on the corner of Lee Road and Imam Haron Road.


Sources: Supplied 
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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Maritzburg Unites to Rebuild Family’s Lives After Flames https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/maritzburg-unites-to-rebuild-familys-lives-after-flames/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/maritzburg-unites-to-rebuild-familys-lives-after-flames/#respond Fri, 13 Sep 2024 14:00:55 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=131021

For a family in Pietermaritzburg, one night and a matter of moments saw everything change when flames engulfed a lifetime of memories and their livelihood. As the co-founder of a...

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For a family in Pietermaritzburg, one night and a matter of moments saw everything change when flames engulfed a lifetime of memories and their livelihood. As the co-founder of a charity, Theresa Pienaar knows what it is to give hope to the hopeless, and now the Maritzburg community are paying it forward to her and her family; helping them rebuild their lives after the unimaginable!

 

Chasedene, South Africa (13 September 2024) — On the evening of 6 September, the unthinkable came knocking for one family in Pietermaritzburg. In one moment, it was just another Friday in early spring. Minds could drift freely, home was still home. In the next, everything would change for the harder. Home was no longer home, and all thoughts pointed to one place—how do we rebuild our lives after this?

Theresa Pienaar, the co-founder of the charity Porky’s People, had been preparing snacks for upcoming memorials when her 10-year-old foster son with special needs told her that smoke was coming down the passage. Two cupboards in the main bedroom were on fire.

Springing into action, Theresa gathered her two foster children, got them outside and shouted for someone to urgently call the fire department. The flames moved frighteningly fast from the bedroom, ploughing through the home in their wake.

Theresa made a brave attempt to smother them with a blanket, but the damage ensued relentlessly.

“My siblings and I received a call from our mother on Friday night, telling us that our family home was in flames,” explains Theresa’s son Zane Groenewald—who many might know as a BackaBuddy team member who has helped run numerous crowdfunding campaigns across causes.

“The relentless blaze had already claimed most of the house, reducing our belongings and cherished memories to ash and rubble,” he says.

“I’ll never forget the pain in my mother’s voice when she realised that everything she and my stepfather had built over a lifetime was gone,” adds Theresa’s daughter, Kirsty.

Theresa and Deon Pienaar now stood at the kind of intersection most can’t even stand to think about. The power surge in their area had reduced 80% of their home to rubble. But, what goes around certainly comes around; and for a family rooted in kindness, kindness is slowly but surely growing in their favour.

With Theresa’s children based across the country and determined to help their parents, word of the Pienaar’s plight has spread far and wide. Additionally, Theresa’s charity work and Zane’s contribution to helping stories of hardship receive awareness have undoubtedly touched South Africa and now South Africans are helping pay it forward.

“Throughout our lives, our mom has always been there for others, helping in both big and small ways without ever expecting anything in return,” shares sibling Natasha. “It’s truly heartwarming to see the community stepping in to help her and my stepdad in their time of need.”

People from all over have united to help the family rebuild their lives after the flame-filled fate; contributing over R70,000 to their cause.

“We’ve received donations ranging from R50 to R20,000, from friends, family, the generous Pietermaritzburg community, and even strangers. Every contribution and message of support has meant the world to our family,” Kirsty beams.

Beyond monetary donations, the family has also received generous donations of clothes, household items, and other essentials that have made a massive difference in rebuilding lives after the worst has happened.

At present, the family is clearing out their home, assessing the damage and seeing what can be salvaged. Anyone from Pietermaritzburg and beyond can help turn their story into a triumph over tragedy by supporting their crowdfunding campaign here.

As Zane concludes:

“In the hours of unimaginable loss and anguish, the love and kindness from our family, friends, neighbours and even perfect strangers have chipped away at our hurt, reminding us that we are not alone. We can dust ourselves off, let go, rebuild, and start again.”

Lives After


Sources: Zane Groenewald
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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September is Green Season So Keep an Eye Out for Strandings!  https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/september-is-green-season-so-keep-an-eye-out-for-strandings/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/september-is-green-season-so-keep-an-eye-out-for-strandings/#respond Tue, 03 Sep 2024 13:00:57 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=130042

As we welcome spring’s warm weather and the smell of Heritage Day braais just on the horizon, keep in mind that September is important for another reason in South Africa—the...

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As we welcome spring’s warm weather and the smell of Heritage Day braais just on the horizon, keep in mind that September is important for another reason in South Africa—the beginning of Green Season where green turtles wash ashore! Here’s what to do if you spot a stranding:

 

Cape Town, South Africa (03 September 2024) — September is a busy month for South Africans. There’s the joy of spring and all things new, Heritage Month where we celebrate our cultural treasures, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month where cupcakes quite literally change individual worlds, whale season being in full swing and of course the two-month mark until Dezemba, when South Africa comes alive more than ever. But for marine conservationists it also marks ‘green season’—a time to keep an eye out for green turtle strandings along our beaches.

From September, our green turtle friends tend to take a break from the ocean and strand along Africa’s coastlines, as the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation (TOAF) informs.

This year, the TOAF and their network of turtle heroes already had their hands full with strandings as hundreds of hatchlings (baby turtles) taking in a whopping 600 hatchlings as of July largely due to intense weather conditions in the Cape.

While the weather has certainly subsided since the wetter months, green turtles have proven to wash up along our coastlines from this month onward for reasons unknown.

The TOA recorded 17 subadult turtles as of 2022, and 11 last year (including some beloved turtles like Nori Bokkie and Luna who are still in rehabilitation but are almost ready for their release!). Not to mention, Bheni the adventurous turtle whose journey many of us followed is also part of the green turtle family.

Turtle heroes will be on standby for ‘green season’ alerts, but it’s up to the public to ensure that they get the calls in time!

If you find yourself at the beach and notice a stranded green turtle in your midst; make sure to take a few seconds to call the Turtle Rescue Hotline on 083 300 1663.

While many may be tempted to just put the turtle back into the sea, this is a no-go. The turtle could be injured or dehydrated and as such, won’t be able to swim away! Instead, make the call and save a little green turtle’s life by connecting them to the teams who know what to do.

Meanwhile in exciting news for turtle lovers, rescued and released turtles Bheni, Nobomvu and Turbo have all come a long way since their first strides back into the ocean and this is what they have been up to! 


Sources: Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation 
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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Calling Psychologists! One SMALL Act of Kindness Seeks Volunteers https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/calling-psychologists-one-small-act-of-kindness-seeks-volunteers/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/calling-psychologists-one-small-act-of-kindness-seeks-volunteers/#respond Wed, 28 Aug 2024 15:00:01 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=129646

If you’re trained to help the mind heal and have a heart of gold yourself, we’re glad this found you! One SMALL Act of Kindness is looking for psychologists to...

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If you’re trained to help the mind heal and have a heart of gold yourself, we’re glad this found you! One SMALL Act of Kindness is looking for psychologists to volunteer some of their time to help people who cannot afford professional help.

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (28 August 2024) — One SMALL Act of Kindness—a community organisation dedicated to putting the ‘act’ in impact, is on the search for psychologists to join their volunteer programme.

In case you haven’t met them before, despite their name, One SMALL Act of Kindness has made a big difference in the lives of many people—often in destitute situations.

Guided by the belief that the smallest acts of kindness, relief or help matter, the Johannesburg-based organisation founded by Kelly-Anne Van Der Meer follows hand-up focused philosophy. From elderly people to underprivileged children in foster homes, burger nights for the hungry filled with conversation to streets teeming with words of love, One SMALL Act of Kindness is making a special mark in Joburg!

However, sometimes, even the best-intentioned acts of kindness require backup in the form of expertise. As such, the team are hoping 2 or 3 psychologists will be able to lend some of their time to help those who cannot afford professional psychological support.

The One SMALL Act of Kindness team is looking for people based in or around Randburg or those who can do a Zoom call ‘now and then’.

Those interested in being a part of their work and potentially changing many lives can get in touch at info@onesmallactofkindness.org.za.


Sources: One SMALL Act of Kindness 
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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People Rally to Find SPCA’s Longest Resident Mr Gooby a Home https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/people-rally-to-find-spcas-longest-resident-mr-gooby-a-home/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/environment/people-rally-to-find-spcas-longest-resident-mr-gooby-a-home/#respond Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:00:12 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=129565

People have united to help one special boy, Mr Gooby, find a home! The longest-standing resident at the SPCA Randburg, Mr Gooby, is ready to suit up for his next...

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People have united to help one special boy, Mr Gooby, find a home! The longest-standing resident at the SPCA Randburg, Mr Gooby, is ready to suit up for his next adventure – a task social media users are lending him a helping paw with.

 

Randburg, South Africa (27 August 2024) — An adorable black and white boxy face (the kind you can’t help but fall in love with at first sight) has been doing the rounds on social media—to the point where the Mr Gooby is slowly but surely becoming a household name in Joburg!

The gorgeous Mr Gooby’s face has been shared thousands of times with an important mission—to find him a home at last.

Initially shared by the SPCA Randburg, Mr Gooby was introduced as their longest-standing resident.

“Mr Gooby has been with us and we would just love for him to find his forever home. He is stocky and cute, full of personality, and is just a gem to be around,” shared the SPCA Randburg, adding that Mr Gooby gets on with other dogs and even grumpy cats.

Not to mention, he’s put forward as being great with kids and might just become the reason someone gets out of bed in the morning (to take him on walks, of course—his great love).

Since the team put Mr Gooby on South African animal lover’s radars, people have wasted no time in sharing the sweet lad’s search for a home.

The effort from so many strangers uniting to help one dog find his next family has been nothing short of a heart-warmer (his post has been shared over 3,000 times!). Especially in a world where—sadly and often—many posts just like Mr Gooby’s get lost in a sea of news, memes and videos, this flavour of community action reminds us that even if we can’t champion a cause ourselves, we can certainly spread the word (or in this case, the woof).

Anyone interested in adopting Mr Gooby can contact the SPCA Randburg via admin@spca-rbg.org.za or call 011 462 1610. To visit you can find them at 229 Northumberland Avenue.


Sources: SPCA Randburg 
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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Calling All Artists! Help Make the Night of 1000 Drawings Dazzle https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/calling-all-artists-help-make-the-night-of-1000-drawings-dazzle/ https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/calling-all-artists-help-make-the-night-of-1000-drawings-dazzle/#respond Fri, 16 Aug 2024 07:00:04 +0000 https://www.goodthingsguy.com/?p=128653

Another Night of 1000 Drawings is on the cards for Johannesburg, and if you’ve been looking for a way out of any creative rut, making art for a special cause...

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Another Night of 1000 Drawings is on the cards for Johannesburg, and if you’ve been looking for a way out of any creative rut, making art for a special cause might just be your answer!

 

Johannesburg, South Africa (16 August 2024) — If you never thought that sitting down to doodle or unleashing some paint on a tiny canvas could change someone’s life, reconsider. Another Night of 1000 Drawings is on the cards for Johannesburg, and if you’ve been looking for a way out of any creative rut, making art for a special cause might just be your answer.

Night of 1000 Drawings is an art-for-charity initiative that invites art lovers and makers to do what they do best—love and make art.

While events happen throughout South Africa (in the Western Cape, Hermanus’ 1000 Drawings is an absolute must), the Victoria Yards version is essential for any art enthusiast in Jozi.

Here, you’ll get to immerse yourself in mini-masterpieces for only R200. No matter how new or seasoned an artist is, the point of the event is to make art accessible whilst securing funds for causes that need a hand (or in this case, a paintbrush and pencil).

Now you might be wondering how the organisers secure enough art. That’s where you or someone creative you know comes in. The Night of 1000 Drawings team hosting at Victoria Yards are looking for art donations for the upcoming event on 7 September!

How to Help with Art

Grab anything A5-sized and set your mind free. From whimsical doodles to vibrant sketches or even striking photographs and embroidery—what you make is up to you. Remember to submit your art before 20 August at one of the following drop-off locations:

  • Keyes Art Mile (Rosebank)
  • Fallen Heroes (Blairgowrie)
  • The Bliss Monger (Randburg)
  • Luna Black Tattoos (Blairgowrie)
  • Lefika La Phodiso (Parktown)
  • Salon Bambino (Bryanston)
  • Joon’s Art Bar (Linden)
  • Nice On Poplar (Riverclub)
  • 44 Stanley (Braamfontein)
  • Oakfields College (Edenvale)
  • Alf’s Stationers (Roodepoort)
  • South Art Centre (Glenanda)

You can also get involved by volunteering on the night by contacting drew@thesquad.co.za / jess@thesquad.co.za or lisa@thesquad.co.za

The Charities

  • Lefika La Phodiso: Africa’s trailblazer in community art counselling, Lefika La Phodiso, has been a pillar of healing since 1994. They provide art therapy and counselling to those impacted by trauma, ensuring that creativity helps heal hearts and minds across Gauteng and beyond.
  • Home  Hope for Girls: Since 2000, this incredible organisation has been offering a safe haven for girls escaping abusive situations. Home for Hope is dedicated to restoring dignity and providing support for a brighter future!
  • Safe Study: Born out of the COVID-19 crisis, Safe Study is a lifeline for youth in Lorentzville. Offering academic support and creative arts enrichment, Safe Study turns challenges into opportunities for learning and growth through an after-school enrichment programme.

Sources: Email Submission
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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

 

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