Giving back is important. Now more than ever
September 2011
In support of National Recycling Week last month and World AIDS Day, Expand a Sign are trying to create awareness about the benefits of recycling and show that it is possible to make a difference in the lives of young South Africans through partnership ventures. A leader on portable branding, Expand a Sign is very conscious of the environmental effects associated with manufacturing, and has re-committed to their Environmental and Social Responsibility Pledge.
A recent joint-venture with OneVoice South Africa (OVSA) on encouraging healthy lifestyles and behaviour – proved a unique opportunity for Expand a Sign to show their support of young people engaging on issues of positive living and healthy lifestyles. OVSA is a vibrant and unique non-governmental organisation that actively engages with young people on HIV prevention in school. The programme provides young people with the platform to discuss and address a number of topical issues, including HIV and AIDS, life skills, sexual reproductive health, gender and human rights.
Expand a Sign recently joined OVSA at King Shaka Secondary School in Umlazi, to present 40 learners with a certificate and a drawstring bag in recognition of their completing the OVSA Schools Programme. Expand a Sign donated 15 000 school bags (made of polyester off-cuts from their banners) which were hailed jubilantly by the learners. A brief speech by the OVSA Facilitator, Nontobeko Mbatha, was followed by names being called out and each child going forward to collect their certificate and school bag. “We are so grateful for organisations like Expand a Sign and OVSA for taking an interest in our youth and making a difference in their lives,” said Grade 8 teacher, Mr Mkhize.
Earlier this month, Expand a Sign also supported the launch of a small home-based business run by a group of previously unemployed women, who now sew shopping bags, sports bags and raincoats from their waste fabric.
For more information on the work Expand a Sign does, please contact Amy Lawrence on +27 (0)31 2072327 or visit www.expandasign.net
For more information on the work OVSA does, or to schedule an interview with the OVSA Managing Director, Dr Josianne Roma-Reardon, please call Marlijn van Berne on +27 (0)31 2020555 or email Marlijn at marlijn@onevoice.org.za