Tears calls for Mandela Day volunteers

The Emma Animal Rescue Society (Tears) is inviting the public to volunteer in support of it this Mandela Day.

The annual event on July 18 encourages people worldwide to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to help those in need.

“We are welcoming individuals, companies, families, and groups of friends to join us in various activities aimed at extending kindness and making a positive impact in the community,” said Tears operations manager Mandy Store.

Volunteers can take part in building and maintenance projects – including renovating kennels and making catwalks and ramps – and work in the gardens at the organisation’s kennels and cattery.

“When volunteers help with maintenance and construction tasks at animal shelters, they have a positive effect on both the environment and the lives of the animals they take care of,“ Ms Store said.

Companies could also take part by organising a collection drive for pet food and blankets, and they could continue to help after Mandela Day by encouraging staff to sign up for a monthly debit order donation of R67, said Ms Store.

“With as little as R67, you can provide life-saving vaccinations and deworming to one kitten or puppy every month,” said Ms Store.

Tears also needs donations for its charity shops.

“Take 67 minutes to do a spring clean and drop off those items at a Tears charity shop. Previously loved goods translate into veterinary care, shelter, and much more for animals in need,” Ms Store said.

Tears kennel manager Luke Kruyt said they were thankful for the annual influx of volunteers.

“Each year, we witness a beautiful surge of volunteer support that empowers us to take on extraordinary projects that transform our shelters into havens of happiness, where wagging tails and purring hearts find solace,” he said.

Volunteers can join Tears at 4 Lekkerwater Road, Sunnydale, from 10am to 3pm, for the Tears Mandela Day Weekend, on Saturday and Sunday July 15 and 16, or on Mandela Day itself, on Tuesday July 18. Visit tears.org.za for more information.