Children give back by cleaning up three parks
Children from The Bethany House Trust cleaned three public parks in Krugersdorp by embracing the spirit of Mandela Day through service, environmental care and community pride.
The Bethany House Trust marked Mandela Day on Thursday, July 17, by empowering its children to give back to their community through a clean-up campaign at three public parks in the city.
Children spent the day cleaning, collecting litter and helping to create cleaner, safer recreational spaces at Bunny Park, Bill Taylor Park and Gerrit Maritz Park for local families.
The initiative was inspired by the values of Nelson Mandela, who believed that every person has the power to make a positive difference through service to others.
“Our children wanted to show that you are never too young to make a difference,” said Antoinette Jonker, COO of Bethany House.
“By caring for public spaces, they demonstrated pride in their community while learning the importance of responsibility, environmental stewardship and active citizenship.”
The clean-up formed part of the children’s home’s Mandela Day activities, which focused on practical acts of kindness that leave a lasting impact on the community.
Beyond providing care and protection for vulnerable children, Bethany House believes in raising young people who understand the value of serving others and contributing positively to society.
“Our children are not only receiving care; they are becoming caring citizens,” Antoinette added. “Mandela Day reminds us that every act of service, no matter how small, helps build stronger communities.”
As South Africans honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy, Bethany House encourages communities to continue caring for their neighbourhoods throughout the year, remembering that lasting change begins with individual action.
