Adcomm's first two issues May 2012 Launch issue | Page 43

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Corporate social investment

Giving back…

SCARC’s mission is to ‘take kids off the street, teach them

Most businesses are involved in
corporate social investment (CSI)
initiatives in one way or another. While
it is not something one necessarily
wants recognition for, it is nice to take
cognizance of what fellow industry
players are up to with their respective social responsibility
arenas. This month we give ADreach the opportunity of
disclosing some of their societal contributions.

Preparing for the future:
During 2011 the Soweto Canoe and Recreation Club (SCARC)
reaffirmed its commitment to economic development. It did
this by launching a job shadowing programme in partnership
with various organisations. The programme intends to provide a
platform for young SCARC members to grow through exposure
to various occupation and life situations.
During April 2012, 15 Grade 11 and 12 SCARC’s members were
hosted by ADreach for a two-day job shadowing programme.
They took on diverse half-day positions in Sales, Production,
Warehouse, Human Resources, Training and Admin.
“The objective is primarily to give the SCARC youth an
opportunity to gain exposure to the workplace, as well as the
various jobs and functions within an organisation,” says Brad
Fisher, ADreach CEO and SCARC Founding Member. This enables
them to make informed decisions when making subject and
career choices.”

Building self-esteem and confidence

to swim and then get them into canoeing’. “River racing is
particularly encouraged, as it not only ensures sustainability, but
is loved by most,” says Fisher. “This process builds self-esteem,
confidence, discipline and perseverance. The Project uses this
base to develop the life skills required to prosper in today’s
competitive world. Activities like job shadowing exposes the
children to opportunities that will be available to them if they
apply themselves in a similar way to their canoeing.

“We ultimately aim to produce well-rounded adults who are
able to support themselves and become productive members
of society. Since inception in 2003, SCARC has been about am
changing lives for the better through sport,” he concludes.

Grade 12 Support Programme:
SCARC and ADreach have also implemented a special Grade
12 support programme, through which the SCARC members
completing their final school year receive support services
such as supplementary educational programmes. For example,
additional English
and maths lessons.
In addition, the
youngsters are offered
psychometric testing to
assist them with career
choices.

Men in the
making
During March SCARC
partnered with
ETANA Insurance to
hold the ‘Men in the
Making Day,’ which
saw the organisation
hosting programmes,
presenting instructional
videos and offering
job shadowing
opportunities to
some of SCARC’s male
members.
May 2012

• SCARC Kids
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