Children and Youth
Christian education and academic support programs are offered to school-age children throughout the community. There is an emphasis on creative activities, group support and encouraging ethical behaviour. Many attendees have provided links to family members in need of other services such as HIV care, food assistance or vocational training. Parents and teachers have been very supportive, and many community members have volunteered in the program’s activities.
Simunye Time
In the Zulu language “Simunye” means “We Are One”, and this program for kids 4-10 years old certainly lives up to its name. Each afternoon, over 100 kids attend Simunye Time where they sing songs, do crafts, play games, and learn about health, the Bible, and positive values. One day each week is devoted to HIV/AIDS and health education.
After School Youth Program
The daily “After School” program is for youth ages 11-16. Each afternoon they meet at the Centre and participate in a variety of educational activities. Each day of the week has a different focus with days devoted to learning English skills, music, strong character skills and biblical values. There is also a weekly health class taught by a Registered Nurse. Among other things, the health class covers topics such as the human body, HIV/AIDS, puberty, sex, and positive relationships.
Children’s Daily Meal
Each day after the Simunye and After School programs, all the children and youth are fed a nutritious meal cooked on site. The kitchen staff work to ensure that the meals are balanced with a variety of food groups as for some kids, this is the only meal they might eat all day.
Live Out Loud High School Program
Live Out Loud empowers youth ages 16-19 by building strong character, and teaching skills such as Teamwork, Leadership, Effective Communication, and Goal Setting. Weekly classes are made up of games, discussions, guest speakers, and activities that are aimed at building strong character and leadership in youth.
Each session builds on the topics from the previous week’s class and at the end of the program the youth do a community project together. The students research a community issue, brainstorm solutions, and use their new skills and confidence to make the community of Bhekulwandle a better place.
By teaching strong character skills and then encouraging youth to become leaders in their community, we hope to see a generation who is equipped and passionate about making a difference in their community. The future is in the hands of these youth. They are not content to sit back quietly as it passes them by; instead they are learning how to Live Out Loud.
School Outreach
Seed of Hope staff and volunteers visit local schools to encourage the students and speak to them about the value of education, biblical integrity and community service. Staff also plan prayer meetings and organize guest speakers for the schools and help support the school staff in various ways.
It is through these school partnerships that many children and youth find out about our programs and services. This connection with the schools also gives our staff another way to assess what needs are present in the community.
Youth Sports Outreach
The Centre staff involve youth from Bhekulwandle and surrounding areas in soccer teams, camps and tournaments. These provide a venue for building relationships with teens, particularly young men, who often do not participate in other activities. Very few recreational activities are available to youth, who subsequently tend to drift toward high risk activities.