Originally established to focus on the importance of water conservation and security, the foundation has expanded its focus to improving the lives of children in disadvantaged communities across South Africa, with an emphasis on sustainable and environment-friendly solutions, wherever possible.
It is fitting that the foundation's milestone was celebrated at the Marvin Park Primary School in Macassar in the Western Cape on 25 September. During the day's celebrations, Ripples for Good, along with the Chevrolet Ute Force team and other partners, helped to improve the school's kitchen to a standard suitable for its work in feeding the children.
The toilet facilities were fixed, cleaned up and decorated. Tap and toilet leaks everywhere in the school were fixed, to prevent water wastage. The children and their parents cleared the field so that it is suitable for sports, and everyone attending the event helped plant 100 fruit trees, for shade, food and to generate an income.
"My journey of making a difference in this wonderful country of ours has been made possible by partners like Chevrolet Ute Force, most particularly with its donation of the Chevrolet Utility vehicle in February of this year. My tough Chevrolet companion helps me transport materials and supplies to outlining areas across South Africa, such as the brand new fruit trees for the Marvin Park Primary School," says Botha.
"When I pull a project like this together, I insist that everything be completed in one day," says Botha. "This means that everyone has to work together to complete all the tasks, and this always contributes to building a strong sense of community teamwork that lasts long after I've climbed back in my Chevrolet Utility with my dogs and left. It is also vital that the community participates in the hard work - it gives them a sense of ownership and pride which are the foundations for even greater growth."
"What is most exciting about the Marvin Park Primary School Community is that everyone is willing to get involved and do whatever is required to help achieve the school's goals," says Tim Hendon, brand manager for Chevrolet South Africa. "The Chevrolet Ute Force initiative is about helping children through the upliftment of communities; it is also a priority to support inspiring South Africans, like Maria, so that they can to continue along their important journey of helping communities help themselves."
