WALKING through the 1000 Hills Community Centre in Inchanga, one can immediately feel the warmth, cheerful laughter, joyful singing, and a sense of unity.

What began as a humble initiative feeding the hungry under a tree has grown into 1000 Hills Community Helpers, a beacon of hope for thousands in the Inchanga area.

Raised in nearby Drummond, founder Dawn Leppan, affectionately known as MaDuma, considers the Inchanga community her extended family.

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“My grandparents owned a restaurant and cared for the local community. I guess that’s where I inherited my passion for helping others,” she said.

Following devastating floods that left many homeless, Leppan wanted to help.

She began a simple feeding scheme, serving meals from the back of a bakkie under a tree.

“When I saw the need to do more, I secured a site for an infant wellness centre under the eaves of a local church. Soon after, five nursing sisters and a paediatrician began volunteering their time to help,” she recalled.

Building a centre of hope

In 2008, a local school donated land, allowing the centre to establish a permanent home. Leppan’s priority was to create a safe haven for children exposed to violence, poverty, and crime.

Today, the centre boasts a well-equipped pre-school with vibrant classrooms and spacious play areas, serving over 350 learners, including many orphaned or vulnerable children. The school offers high-quality early childhood education, from newborns to Grade R, taught by qualified ECD educators.

“The children don’t need to bring lunch. We provide two nutritious meals and a fruit each day, setting a solid foundation for their future,” Leppan said.

Following the pre-school, a kitchen was built to support a permanent feeding scheme. Through its Meals on Wheels project, the centre now serves thousands of meals to those in need across the community.

The centre also operates a fully equipped clinic, staffed by a nurse, four assistants, and Leppan’s daughter, who volunteers her time as a nursing sister.

Recognising the need for adult support, the centre launched a Home-Based Care Programme. This trains volunteer social workers to provide basic healthcare and education in the community.

The centre also offers skills development programmes, empowering locals with tools to find employment or start their own businesses. Handcrafted goods are sold, with profits reinvested into supplies and the local artisans who create them.

An on-site vegetable garden supports the feeding programme and supplies produce to major retail stores.

To ensure children are safe and supported even after school hours, the centre runs an Afterschool Care Programme, offering a nurturing environment for play, learning, and growth. During school holidays, special programmes keep children engaged and off the streets.

A life of purpose

Reflecting on her journey, Leppan said, “I was brought up in this kind of environment, and I believe this is my calling. I love what I do, it’s my life.”

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. Over the years, Leppan has received numerous accolades, including: The Paul Harris Award, The eThekwini Municipality Award, The Standard Bank Award, A Carte Blanche Making a Difference Award, The Impumelelo Award, The Golden Key Award and the eThekwini Living Legend Award.

Despite her achievements, Leppan remains humble. A mother of three, she raised her children and grandchildren in the same spirit of community. One granddaughter now works at the centre full-time.

“None of this would be possible without the unwavering dedication and selfless love of my team,” she said. “To every funder, donor, friend, staff member, volunteer, and partner, thank you. We are forever grateful.”

The centre always welcomes donations, especially second-hand items.

“They are like gold to us, and our beneficiaries are always so grateful,” Leppan added.

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