28th AGM celebrates commitment to vulnerable children

Greater Boksburg Child Welfare (GBCW) hosted its 28th AGM on September 13 in Reiger Park, celebrating the achievements of the past year and honouring staff who have dedicated years of service to the organisation.

During the AGM, 19 employees received long service certificates, including social workers, social auxiliary workers, programme managers, administrative staff, and caregivers, recognising their commitment to supporting vulnerable families in the community.

Chairperson Dorry Naidoo presented the annual report, highlighting the organisation’s impact over the 2024/2025 period.
“It gives me great pleasure and honour to report that our services have touched thousands of families despite the challenges we faced,” said Naidoo.

He urged past and new members to increase their involvement in the organisation through volunteerism, noting that some positions remain unfilled due to emigration and other commitments.
Naidoo expressed gratitude to funders and donors, noting that GBCW had secured over a million rand in funding from the National Lottery Board.

Despite receiving Department of Social Development subsidies late in the reporting period, the organisation was able to provide staff with gratuity payments and utilise donations to support service delivery.

However, challenges remain. Naidoo highlighted difficulties in establishing sub-committees for fundraising due to limited member support, as well as the impact of storms, vandalism, and theft on the organisation’s infrastructure and equipment.

“Our ‘Keep Me Safe’ home has been let out to generate funds for operational costs, and we continue to appeal to both public and private enterprises to support our work,” he added.

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Director Nompumelelo Gidela emphasised the importance of societal responsibility in protecting children.
“We urge the public to support our organisation and work together to fight the scourge of child abuse. Every child deserves to be protected and well cared for at all times,” said Gidela.

A highlight of the AGM was the announcement of Cyril Reeby as GBCW’s new patron, a move welcomed by staff and management as a step toward strengthening leadership and guidance for the organisation’s programmes.

Under Gidela’s leadership, GBCW continues to expand its services through youth development and HIV/AIDS programmes, including Asibavikele, which provides psychosocial support to orphans, vulnerable children, and people living with HIV/AIDS.
The organisation currently employs 74 staff members and maintains offices in Boksburg, Vosloorus, and Reiger Park.

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