THE clinic in Kabah, one of Kariega’s oldest townships known for its history of extreme poverty, has received a significant revamp thanks to the efforts of the Volkswagen Community Trust and the employees of Volkswagen Group Africa.
Through the employee volunteer programme, Show of Hands, employees and their loved ones are encouraged to participate in company-supported initiatives. Over the weekend, more than 160 volunteers came together to lend a hand.
The Middle Street Clinic, located next to the Volkswagen Community Trust’s Ikhwezi Lomso Early Childhood Development Centre, was identified as an ideal project, explained Volkswagen Group Africa Corporate and Government Affairs Director, Nonkqubela Maliza. “Our aim is to make a difference in the communities where we operate. The clinic was in dire need of maintenance, both inside and outside the building. I believe this renovation will restore the dignity of the health facility, its workers and the community which it serves,” said Maliza.
Volunteers took part in general building repairs and painting, replaced broken windows and fused lightbulbs, and fixed fascia boards and gutters. The derelict ablution facilities were restored. To enhance the clinic’s external appearance, employees painted colourful murals, added character to the landscape, and created a garden. Additionally, the water tank, which had been placed flush on the ground, was elevated onto a built platform to allow for easier water flow.
This year the Volkswagen Community Trust collaborated with the SPAR Distribution Centre in Nelson Mandela Bay to expand the impact. Through their hardware affiliate, Build It, an additional water tank was installed at the clinic. The collaboration also included 2.7 tons of non-perishable food ingredients which were packed into 5 000 ready-to-cook meal packs by volunteers. These meal packs can serve at least 20 000 meals.
Martina Biene, Volkswagen Group Africa Chairperson and Managing Director, seldom misses the opportunity to show her hands in the community. She rolled up her sleeves to paint and clean the facility grounds. Biene emphasised the importance of connecting with local communities and stakeholders who share similar values. “Donating money to charity is the easy part, but giving of yourself is not as simple. I commend our employees and their loved ones for stepping up for these initiatives. I am also grateful to our partners for their collaboration. Many hands make light work!” Biene added.
Throughout the year, the Volkswagen Community Trust runs a reading programme at the clinic which is aimed at cultivating a love for reading amongst pregnant women. “Renovating the Middle Street Clinic is more than just a physical upgrade; it’s an investment in the health, education, and future success of our community, perfectly embodying our Cradle to Career strategy,” said Biene.
The Show of Hands programmes are incorporated into the company’s community initiatives and extend beyond Mandela Month.
The next Show of Hands volunteer programme is scheduled to take place in Gauteng on 3 August. This event will provide an opportunity for Gauteng-based employees and their loved ones to contribute to their local community.
Image provided (All hands on deck. Martina Biene, Volkswagen Group Africa Chairperson and Managing Director, sandwiched by employees at the revamp of a clinic in Kariega, where VW’s head plant is based).
