Young people has a calling for helping other young people
One of the five young people had a calling after seeing their peers destroying themselves with drugs and alcohol.
The five calling themselves People Against Alcohol and Substance Abuse Foundation, were not wrong when they started the organisation volunteering themselves and their efforts to a good cause. The organisation was started by the group of five: Evans Simelane, Karabo Mampuru, Piet Mokoena, Pastor Jerry Makhudu and Khulekani Nkosi.
The aim of the organisation was to give assistance, to people who have a problem with substance abuse and alcohol. The organisation was started in March this year.
“I was touched after seeing young people destroying themselves in this way and that voice from God could not be ignored. After praying and getting guidance from Him, we started the organisation. The problem of drug and alcohol abuse is getting worse and we felt we can play our part in helping. We wanted to help people who are faced with the problem,” started Evans.
The group has a partnership with a local doctor. After consultations with their ‘clients’ family, they then start with the process of rehabilitation. The client is taken to a doctor and receives prescription, gets treatment for three weeks and they receive counselling at the same time. Motivation and prayers are also offered to their clients. Their clients are monitored as well.
The group believes that it has to start with an individual. So far four people have been helped through treatment. Even though treatment is free some families who can afford are asked to help in paying for the treatment.
“Even though we have registered our organisation through the department of health and social services we need a lot of funding. Our vision is to have a rehab centre in our area since we have a drug problem. We will appreciate it if people can pledge to help sustain the organisation. Some of these young people are skilled and we also help them find jobs after recovery.”
The group says they would like to see change and they are planning to hold sports tournaments, talents shows and other activities. They have also formed a partnership with Izodela Development Centre to send some of the people there.
A local motivational speaker has also come on aboard to offers assistance in counselling and to motivate their clients. The group believes that with God’s help nothing can stand on their way in helping other young people.
The group can be contacted through Piet at: 073 026 8113.
