How to spend your 67 minutes on Mandela Day
On 18 July, South Africans are encouraged to spend 67 minutes donating their time to do something positive or kind.
Nelson Mandela was the father of our nation for many reasons, but one of the most iconic reasons is that he encouraged us to spread love and kindness to the world around us.
This is why each year on his birthday, on 18 July, people gather in their troops to spread humility in different ways. Some give their time of service to their community by picking up trash, and others spend time with the less fortunate.
Ahead of this Mandela Day, we have some ideas to get you thinking about what you could do with your 67 minutes of service.
1. Get up, clean up
Besides the unsightly effects of litter, environmental and health factors should motivate us to stop littering. Yet, we still see so many people disposing of their waste irresponsibly.
You can do your bit by getting people together and hosting a clean-up. You can do one in your neighbourhood by visiting a public park or a plot of land that has become a dumping ground.
2. Donate blood
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is always looking for more volunteers to help with blood drives. Did you know that one blood donation can help save three people's lives?
Make sure to check with your local blood bank beforehand to find out more.
3. Remember the kids
It's the school holidays, and the kids are at home. You could either check in with children's homes ahead of time to find out what they need help with, or you could help the moms out in your neighbourhood by hosting a fun play date.
4. Volunteer at a soup kitchen
Food insecurity is still a massive problem in South Africa. You can help by donating food or your time to a local shelter, food bank, or soup kitchen. Some people also host their own feeding by packing up food parcels and handing them out around the city centre.
5. Blanket or clothes drive
You can coordinate a blanket and clothes drive with your community. Donating stuff you are no longer using can be a blessing to someone in need. Since it's winter, why not look through some winter clothing and blankets stored away? These could be handed out to the less fortunate.
6. Care bags
Care bags are just bags filled with stuff you feel people need. For example, you could fill a grocery bag or shopping bag with soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, lotion, a hair comb or brush, to make a toiletry care bag. Alternatively, you could fill the bag with groceries and give them to someone begging at the traffic light.
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