Written by: Reuven Blignault, journalist for CAXTON Publications
SUNDOWNER – A Sundowner author, motivational speaker, and founder of the JustOneThing365 non-profit organisation is seeking to raise R27 000 for the Sandton SPCA in an effort to support their work for animals in need in Alexandra.
“Our focus this year has been around supporting vulnerable communities and their pets. We’ve been doing bi-monthly outreaches in the Thinasonke and Jackson’s Drift informal settlements in the south of Johannesburg, and supporting other non-profits with funds, donations [food, clothing, bedding, and toys for both humans and pets] and generating awareness, through our organisation,” said Petra Laranjo of the JustOneThing365.
According to Laranjo, her organisation has supported the Sandton SPCA over a number of years and, are always looking for creative ways to raise funds, awareness, and support for them.
“The Sandton SPCA does such important and necessary work in the Alexandra community, helping vulnerable people and pets in need. Personally, my goal is to help people live fulfilled, inspired and purposeful lives of impact as well as being a voice for the voiceless. I’ve been donating proceeds from the sale of my books for years but I thought that focusing fundraising for one organisation would have better traction for this initiative.”
The Sandton SPCA performs regular initiatives including the sterilisation of animals in informal settlements. “There are just too many pets for us ever to be able to help with food, vet bills, blankets, kennels, and more. Sterilisation of pets in informal and suburban areas is the only answer, besides adoption. On average 10 000 animals are put down every day because many people opt to buy instead of adopting pets from a shelter.”
Laranjo encouraged people who celebrate their birthdays in August and beyond to sponsor a sterilisation for an animal.
“My goal is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others – be it humans, animals, or our planet – it doesn’t need to cost much, take much time or effort.”
Laranjo is the author of self-help books such as Living on Purpose, which is a popular ‘how-to’ resource to develop purposeful individuals who are inspired to drive personal and business growth.
For details on how you may get involve or donate to this initiative, visit www.justonething365.com.
