Collaboration benefits NGOs, public
Forum, life centre making huge strides in multiple areas
In our community, we’ve encountered numerous development hurdles. However, through the collective collaboration of various organisations and groups, we’re streamlining our efforts to tackle these challenges head-on.
Here’s a glimpse of our journey since establishing the
Sunshine NGO Forum and Life Centre.
Since its inception in 2022, the forum has convened 15 steering and development sector meetings, organised 13 capacity-building events and workshops, and hosted two annual events. Moreover, the forum has identified 10 development programmes, undertaking a collaborative and participatory approach involving beneficiaries in their systematic development.
There are 117 Ndlambe-based development groups and organisations listed on the forum’s database.
In July 2023, the Sunshine Life Centre introduced a dedicated development help desk operational every weekday from 9am to 2pm. Since its launch, the help desk has logged 134 clients, processed 26 referrals, and successfully enrolled 64 clients in various Sunshine programmes.
Efforts are underway at the Sunshine Life Centre to collaborate with other community-based centres, aiming to expand its scope and offer solutions to individuals’ development challenges.
Since its inauguration, the Sunshine Life Centre has conducted 73 household assessments and distributed 89 relief parcels. Additionally, a gift depot has been established, receiving 64 donations including food, clothing, bedding, and household equipment, totalling 5901 items and 837kg in volume-based food supplies.
The Port Alfred Soup Kitchen generously provides soup and bread to more than 2,000 individuals bi-weekly.
Other organisations, such as Vincent de Paul, Soup Kitchen, Port Alfred Rotary, and Loafs and Fishes, significantly contribute to emergency relief efforts in the Port Alfred area.
Nemato Change A life continues to support Nemato youth with various sports and educational activities including rowing, fencing, gymnastics, handball, math and literacy.
A dedicated Sunshine Youth steering group was formed to assess the needs of young individuals and brainstorm potential solutions. Notably, a tennis clinic and survival swimming training were conducted.
Employment and training prospects are regularly disseminated across various youth networks. Plans are underway to appoint a dedicated youth programme coordinator.
Two training workshops were conducted by SANCA for members of the Sunshine NGO Forum, aimed at addressing substance abuse issues within our locality. Consequently, a specialised substance abuse workgroup has been formed, comprising representatives from the police, private security, healthcare professionals, and substance abuse support groups.
Plans are underway to establish a dedicated substance abuse help and report line. An additional AA group has been established at Nemato Change a Life, and an NA group at the Sunshine Life Centre, with further groups in the pipeline.
NGO facilitators underwent two OT Grow training sessions to equip them with life skills in the facilitated group therapy model. Two life groups are poised for initiation, pending training sessions. Furthermore, there are plans to launch a mentorship programme aimed at aiding street children.
In terms of education, a working group has been formed, conducting comprehensive visits to all ECD centres to assess their requirements. Certain centres have received crucial infrastructure support. Thanks to the generous contributions from the Port
Alfred Soup Kitchen, Port Alfred Rotary, and the Sunshine Life Centre, seven ECD centres now benefit from ongoing food support.
Additional activities, such as imaginative literacy reading sessions, have been organised. Plans are in progress to conduct capacity-building workshops next year for teachers.
The Robert Veenstra Centre hosts regular computer training sessions. Additionally, Nemato Change A Life provides its clients with internet access and online learning opportunities. Moreover, the Sunshine Life Centre extends access to tablets and free internet for community members.
Approximately 80% of the Sunshine Life Centre’s clients have enrolled in the employment programme. To date, three work readiness and life skills training sessions have been successfully conducted. Participants have not only developed but also received printed versions of their CVs and their profiles are in the process of being added to the Sunshine Life Centre’s website.
Skills transfer sessions are planned for next year.
A comprehensive enterprise development training workshop was held, empowering participants to craft well-developed business plans and marketing materials. These individuals have been integrated into an enterprise WhatsApp group, where regular updates on microfinancing and startup support opportunities are shared.
Several skills experts have been identified for the forthcoming skills transfer sessions.
The Market Traders’ Store has been instrumental in conducting workshops on sowing, furniture mending, and upcycling.
To boost local food production and food security, this end, a GoogleMyMap has been initiated to gather and map information concerning all local growers.
To operate efficiently, we maximise our resources, leveraging our gift depot, dedicated volunteers, and cutting-edge technology to streamline our operations.
However, some endeavours require financial support.
For one-time or scheduled donations via your banking app, here are the bank details of the Sunshine Life Centre:
AidIT NPO (trading as)
FNB Business 62821699058 Port Alfred 255355 Contributions to this account will be used for the Sunshine Life Centre’s primary programmes. To learn more, visit or contact Hyman van Zyl: 073-897-9179.