Volunteering with TLC Outreach Projects

The non-profit organization TLC Outreach Projects is dedicated to supporting individuals from socially challenging backgrounds.

The "Street Ministry" program involves social work professionals traveling through the three informal settlements of Radar Bush, Wolwerivier, and The Village, which together have a population of around 4,000 people. Many residents face challenges such as poverty, malnutrition, lack of educational opportunities, domestic violence, and substance abuse. The staff connects those in need with medical care, psychotherapy, or addiction rehabilitation services provided by other NGOs. They also invite individuals to participate in TLC’s programs aimed at improving living conditions. This support is also extended to the approximately 200 homeless people living in Blaauwberg.

The "Independent Living" and "Skills Development" programs focus on prevention. By providing access to education and training opportunities, these programs aim to help individuals improve their living and family circumstances. People from informal settlements and the homeless who are motivated to improve their situations can join courses at the Skills Centre. These courses cover soft skills like communication, health, social presentation, and relationships, as well as hard skills like computer literacy, plumbing, electrical work, welding, math, and reading. Participants can also engage in sports activities, including endurance training, bodyboarding, soccer, and netball.

Children and young people are engaged through the "Preventative Program," usually held on Thursdays, which provides basic educational activities and educates them playfully on topics like drugs, crime, HIV, and homelessness. The "Crazy Daisy" program distributes free hygiene products to girls, ensuring they do not miss school during their periods.

Once a week, the street workers visit a retirement home for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s, offering entertainment, conversation, and handicraft activities.

Your Role as a Volunteer

As a volunteer, you will join from Monday to Thursday, 9 AM to 5 PM, contributing to all of TLC's programs. Your tasks may include:

• Assisting with outreach activities in informal settlements and supporting social workers in their efforts.
• Helping with educational programs for children and teenagers, including the Preventative Program.
• Participating in sports, creative, and skill-development workshops at the Skills Centre.
• Contributing to the Crazy Daisy program by preparing and distributing hygiene kits.
• Supporting activities and providing companionship during visits to the retirement home.
• Assisting with team meetings, cleanup initiatives, and maintenance of the center.
• Sorting material donations and performing administrative tasks.

Fridays are generally free unless events are scheduled.