"Laughter and play is the best medicine for children," commented the Othandweni spokesman. "We have 90 children staying at the centre aged from new-born babies to 18-year-old children and music is the best way to engage these various age groups, and break down barriers to communication."
The Chevrolet Ute Force team arranged music for the centre's younger children by inviting the local Soweto franchise of the popular Be Sharp Beetles musical group. Be Sharp Beetles is a musical education programme that caters for children under the age of eight. The programme is specifically written to include a variety of music and song styles that appeal to different cultures, and songs are delivered in various languages. It helps to stimulate and encourage children to grow through play and interaction.
On the day, while the little ones rested the older children, aged from five to 18, were treated to a healing drumming session by The Drum Café. The session was designed to encourage creativity and team building and allow the various age groups to show off their individuality. Volunteers and the centre's dedicated Social Aid Workers were also able to get involved and show off their rhythm.
Bridgette Bolton, Chevrolet Ute Force's project manager commented: "The purpose of the day was to inspire the centre's children to have fun through music and play. We decided that while we were there we would also help to uplift the computer room used by the older children, by painting it and installing new blinds. The computer room is used for school projects and for the children to learn how to type."
Bolton went on to add that the Chevrolet Ute Force project team works closely with the people on the ground to pinpoint what they really need. She noted that needs vary and can be as simple as spending time with the residents and raising awareness of their needs among the broader community.
"The Chevrolet Ute Force project aims to lend a helping hand to communities across South Africa and to inspire others to get involved," said Tim Hendon. "We identify various community centres and care facilities across South Africa and pinpoint ways of getting involved. The project provides sustainable solutions that will make a long-term positive difference on the lives of the people involved and the surrounding community."
