Breakthru Community Action hosts third annaul Holiday Club

Written by ANiSA Associate

During the week of 21-25 June, Breakthru Community Action (BCA), a Non-Profit Organisation (NPO) located in Boom Street, hosted its third annual Holiday Club for children, ages 6-13, from the surrounding areas. The theme for the week, “Be the Best Player You Can Be,” focused on sportsmanship and the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament. The average attendance for the club was 150-200 children with 50 volunteers each day.

During the daily lessons, the children learned about their own significance, the importance of respecting authority, demonstrating determination and perseverance, and making good life choices. Additionally, the children were divided into different “countries” (based on those participating in the 2010 FIFA World Cup) determined by gender and age. The teams then competed in soccer, netball, and relay races. Prizes were awarded at the end of the tournament.

However, sport was not the only main event during the week. On Thursday, the children were given the chance to participate in various arts venues, such as drama, dance, and music, which they performed for the larger group on Friday afternoon. BCA’s Holiday Club also hosted several guest speakers during the week including ward councillor Judith Lawrence, a representative from TB Free, and the fire department.

Lawrence, who spoke about the importance of caring for the community, encouraged the children to work together as teams. “Remember, while there are teams playing football in this country, you can also work as a team,” said Lawrence. “You can also do your bit to make where you stay a better place.”

Overall, the Holiday Club was seen as a great success thanks to the accountability of volunteers and generous sponsorships.

“My favourite part of volunteering for Holiday Club was getting to know the kids,” said volunteer Constance McKinney. “It was great being a part of this and knowing that you’re making a different in their lives.”

BCA is linked to Breakthru Church International and is registered with the Department of Social Development as an NPO (063-415-NPO). The NPO is based in the 27th ward of Pietermaritzburg. The target neighbourhood is the western end of the central business district. BCA’s mission is to create a social support base the children, youth, and their families, where they can find constructive friendship that adds value to their lives by offering spiritual and emotional support and direction, educational support and assistance, and counselling.