She advised people who would like to start their own charity to get a copy of the book.

“I think the most useful chapter covers mistakes made and lessons learnt. I’ve interviewed many other charity founders about the problems that we have all encountered. There’s also a chapter on how to do fundraising. A lot of people do it wrong or don’t know where to start – and then they wonder why people don’t support them,” said Norcott.

The RHF chairperson said another practical chapter in the book talks about handling volunteers – how to attract them, manage them, motivate, retain, and reward them.

Having been put under a great deal of pressure during the KZN floods, the KZN looting and even the Covid-19 pandemic, in the book Norcott visits another major challenge that she has encountered – burnout.

“Burnout is synonymous with people in this space, so I talk about boundaries. I provide self-care tips so people know how to look after their own souls while trying to help everyone else. I discuss the mistakes we all make, including so-called white saviour syndrome. It’s a very real thing.”

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Through highlighting the multifaceted projects run by this successful organisation, Weight of Hope shows that there are many things that can be done to help others in what Norcott describes as a desperate space of dreadful inequality and endemic poverty.

“This book is very much a call to action, to do something.”

She advises that those wishing to reach out be intentional, starting out with something about which they are passionate, “that thing that makes your heart sore”.

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“Investigate the founder, investigate the chairperson, ask questions. I’ve never earned one cent from this work in 20 years and people like the fact that I’m giving as well. It’s not like I’m doing it so I can get a cushy job. I have a business. People are happy to donate because I am donating.”

She added that giving doesn’t stop with money – your time, insights and professional skills also make a difference. “I feel that everyone in South Africa should practise ‘mateship’. It’s an Australian term which I’ve put in the book where everyone does something because it’s just part of society’s DNA.”

Her goal in writing this book is not about just selling copies, but rather equipping people who are making a difference or who are wanting to make a difference.

Get a copy

Weight of Hope is available at R250 per copy plus VAT from Cindy Norcott and you can email her at cindy@proappoint.co.za or visit her website – www.cindynorcott.co.za. She will donate R50 per copy bought to the Robin Hood Foundation, so it is literally the book that keeps on giving.