Amy Biehl Foundation is a non-profit organisation that offers programmes to develop and empower youth (5 – 18 years of age) living in the challenged and vulnerable communities within the Western Cape. The programmes place a focus on the creative side of the child’s brain, and supplement the shortcomings of the educational system in the townships of South Africa. There are huge inadequacies in the schools in which we work, creating a great need for our programmes. In 2011, 52.08% of children that started school did not show up to sit their Grade 12 final exams, the Foundation aims to make learning enjoyable and encourage youngsters to want to learn. (Weekend Argus – Jan 7 2012 edition)
Reaching over 1500 youngsters every day, the programmes are having a very positive effect on the youth as well as the communities in which they live. We provide educational and cultural activities that offer students healthy alternatives to all the negative influences within their society, unlock their creative talent and create future emotionally well rounded individuals, leaders and entrepreneurs for South Africa.
The Western Cape has the highest level of youth crime, tik addiction and dagga use in South Africa, as well as the most 7-13 year olds arrested and charged by police- keeping youngsters off the streets and away from these societal ills gives them hope for a brighter future. (*Excerpts from the Memorandum by Representative Council of Learners and COSAS – August 2008)
A nutritional meal is provided daily for the children, and with the greening & environment programme, youngsters are actually given an opportunity to grow vegetables for their teachers, class mates and communities. Programmes include:
* After School Care * Music, Including Violin, Guitar, Recorder, Marimba, Choral Singing and Brass*
* HIV / AIDS Peer Education * Greening and Environment * Literacy * Creative Arts, Including, Pottery, Beading, * Drama & Dance – Kwaito, Modern, Traditional and Ballet * Sport including soccer, hockey, swimming, diving, cricket, netball * Computer Literacy*
History of the organisation
The Foundation was named after American student, Amy Biehl, a gifted and dynamic young woman who was committed to making a difference in South Africa. She tirelessly worked with members of the African National Congress (ANC) at the University of the Western Cape’s Community Law Centre on the new Constitution and Women’s Rights, as well as helped register voters for the country’s first free elections in 1994.
On August 25 1993, Amy Biehl’s life was tragically cut short in an act of political mob violence in the Guguletu township just outside of Cape Town. Four young men were convicted of her murder, and after spending 5 years in prison were granted amnesty through the parents of Amy and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Determined to honour Amy’s love of South Africa and her belief in the truth and reconciliation process, Amy’s parents founded the organisation.
VISION
To provide the best Children and Youth programmes where all achieve and succeed in life.
MISSION
To provide a safe environment in challenged and vulnerable communities where we develop emotionally well rounded Children and Youth who make positive life choices and become contributing members of society.
http://www.amybiehl.co.za/