SCHNETLER’S MAKING A DIFFERENCE ON MANDELA DAY

Mandela Day is an annual international day in honour of Nelson Mandela. This day is celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela’s birthday. The day was officially declared as “Mandela Day” by the United Nations in 2009.

Mandela Day is a day which is dedicated in tribute of the legacy of Nelson Mandela and his values by means of volunteering and community service. Mandela Day is a global call to action that drives the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make a change.

The Mandela Day campaign message is:

“Nelson Mandela has fought for social justice for 67 years. We’re asking you to start with 67 minutes.”

For 67 years, Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humankind – as a Human Rights Attorney, a prisoner of conscience, an international peacemaker and as the first democratically elected president of a free South Africa.

Schnetler’s partook in Mandela Day as a firm. We believe that in order for South Africa to be a better country for every citizen, it starts with us, with the people of South Africa. Every citizen of South Africa needs to come together in order to fight for a better future for all.

We therefore chose to dedicate our 67 minutes to volunteering at an animal shelter, Fallen Angels, situated in Melkbosstrand. We when arrived, we presented our donation to the organisation, which included cat and dog food, food bowls, blankets and pillows and newspapers to line the enclosures. Thereafter we were offered a brief history of the shelter and it came to be in existence, followed by a tour of the grounds, as we listened to the sad stories of many of the dogs homed there. Some of the tales of these animals were terrible to hear, and we all wondered out loud how human beings could treat a living and innocent being in the manner that some of these animals have been treated in their pasts.

We were each permitted to choose a dog and a lead, and thereafter proceeded to take our dog on a short walk on the open land surrounding the enclosures.

We are so glad to have offered our time and attention to some of the many sweet and loving dogs at the shelter, by giving them some extra love and care.

Compiled by: Laura Ames

This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as legal or other professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your legal adviser for specific and detailed advice. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)