A recent Corporate Brunch has highlighted how lives are being rebuilt, hope is being restored, and futures are being reshaped through the work of Urban Ruins, a Plantation-based non-profit organisation that continues to make a lasting impact on vulnerable individuals and families across Boksburg and neighbouring areas.

The organisation recently hosted its first Corporate Brunch, opening its doors to the corporate sector, business leaders, and decision-makers to experience firsthand the work being done and the difference it has made since its establishment in 2013.

Urban Ruins has grown into a vital community upliftment hub, offering a range of programmes including feeding schemes, skills development, an Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre, and empowerment initiatives.

These programmes aim to address socio-economic challenges faced by disadvantaged communities, particularly among youth and the elderly, while equipping individuals with the skills to become self-reliant.

CEO Clayton Viljoen told attendees that thousands of individuals rely on the organisation’s services each month. He emphasised that the purpose of the brunch was to demonstrate transparency and show potential partners how their contributions directly benefit those in need.

Lives transformed
The true impact of Urban Ruins was reflected in powerful testimonies from beneficiaries, many of whom grew up within the organisation.

Storm Simons described the centre as ‘a place of transformation,’ recalling how it supported her family during a difficult time following her father’s passing.
What began as a simple visit turned into a life-changing journey, with her family becoming deeply involved in the organisation.

Siya Mulomole, who joined the centre during his primary school years, credited Urban Ruins for helping him improve academically and discover his passion for cycling. Through opportunities linked to the organisation, he was able to travel internationally and has since remained involved in supporting its work.

Marcus Pieterse, now deputy chairperson of the Urban Ruins board, shared how the organisation provided him with a safe and supportive environment during his childhood. He has since grown within the structure, from volunteer to leadership, and continues to give back to the community.

Wide-ranging community programmes
Urban Ruins’ feeding schemes support at least three disadvantaged communities each week, providing meals to between 200 and 600 people per outreach. Around 90% of the food is donated by partner organisations and includes a variety of essential items such as cooked meals, bread, and fresh produce.

The organisation also runs a monthly outreach initiative known as ‘Krap n Vat’, where collected clothing and household goods are distributed to families in need, often accompanied by large-scale food preparation.

Its ECD school provides quality early childhood education to children aged three to six, following the CAPS curriculum. The programme ensures that children from financially constrained households have access to a strong educational foundation in a safe and nurturing environment.

Another key initiative is the employment empowerment volunteer programme, launched a few years ago. The programme allows unemployed individuals to volunteer in exchange for meals and food support, while also instilling workplace discipline, time management, and self-respect. To date, at least 45 participants have transitioned into employment.

Urban Ruins also provides immediate relief through once-off food hampers to families in crisis, assessing their needs and offering continued support where possible.

Collaboration and resilience
Viljoen highlighted the importance of collaboration between non-profit organisations, churches, and community groups, stressing that partnerships are essential for sustainability in the current economic climate.

Despite significant financial setbacks, the organisation has remained resilient by implementing innovative fundraising initiatives, including a mushroom-farming project, as well as fun activities to sustain its operations.

However, ongoing support remains critical. Viljoen appealed to both individual and corporate stakeholders for financial assistance, as well as for donations, such as a reliable vehicle to support outreach efforts.

While expressing gratitude to those who attended the brunch, he acknowledged some disappointment at last-minute cancellations but encouraged broader participation going forward.
“The door remains open. We invite anyone who wants to make a difference to become part of what we are building,” he said.

Call to action
One attendee, Shani Smart, emphasised the importance of community involvement in tackling hunger and poverty.
“Without food, people cannot function or think clearly. There is so much we can do as a community – not only through funding, but also by volunteering and supporting initiatives like this,” she said.

Urban Ruins continues to call on the community to support its mission through donations, partnerships, and active involvement, reinforcing the message that collective effort is key to transforming lives.

Also Read: Urban Ruins’ fundraising dinner draws impressive crowd