After months of storms and flooding, TEARS Animal Rescue is welcoming volunteers back to its premises this Mandela Day, inviting South Africans to give 67 minutes of their time to help rebuild the shelter.
The initiative honours the 67 years Nelson Mandela spent fighting for social justice, with volunteers encouraged to make a difference by supporting animals who do not have a voice of their own.
Helping TEARS Rebuild
This year’s Mandela Day campaign carries added significance after recent storms caused notable damage around the property.
To help restore the shelter, TEARS has created three volunteer projects, each designed to repair storm damage and improve the environment for the animals in its care.
Three Ways to Get Involved
Painting Project
Volunteers will help brighten kennels and the cattery with a fresh coat of paint, creating welcoming spaces where rescued animals can feel more comfortable while waiting for their forever homes.
Gardening Project
The gardening team will focus on replanting trees and pet-friendly flowers, while rebuilding outdoor spaces damaged by the storms.
According to TEARS, safe, green areas play an important role in enriching the lives of rescue animals.
Cleaning Project
Volunteers can also assist with storm clean-up, deep-cleaning puppy areas and general kennel maintenance in preparation for the cattery’s move to Lekkerwater.
Although less glamorous than painting or gardening, these tasks are essential to keeping the shelter operating.
Community Support Makes a Difference
“The storms hit us hard, but Mandela Day has always reminded us what’s possible when a community comes together. Every hour of painting, planting or cleaning goes straight back into making life better for the animals in our care,” says TEARS Operations Manager Mandy Store.
How to Volunteer
Members of the public are invited to volunteer at TEARS on 18 July.
Registration costs R200 per person, with all materials and equipment provided. No previous experience is required.
Friends, families, colleagues and individuals are all welcome to participate.
Corporate teams looking to give back together can also book dedicated volunteer sessions on 17 July.
Packages for up to eight people cost R7,000 per group and include a Section 18A tax certificate for the donation.
Whether painting, planting or cleaning, every volunteer will help create cleaner, safer and more enriching spaces for the dogs and cats awaiting adoption.
Spots are limited and early registration is encouraged.
To pledge your 67 minutes, register via the TEARS website or through the link in the organisation’s Instagram bio.
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