Individual Social Responsibility

What does it mean? It is about an individual becoming responsible in his/her actions that have affect on communities outside his/her immediate circle. The immediate circle being family and friends.

What is ISR? The individual social responsibility includes the engagement of each person toward the community where he lives, which can be expressed as an interest towards what’s happening in the community, as well as in the active participation in die solving of some of the local problems. The individual social responsibility also could be expressed in making donations for significant for the society causes – social, cultural or ecological.

Is ISR practical? It has to be as the trends show that the biggest growth for big charitable organizations in the world is coming through individuals and not through corporations and governments.

What is being ethical? Ethics is a set of beliefs about right and wrong. The beliefs are dependent on personal experience, family background, religious background and education. Integrity to your beliefs is an important element of being ethical.

Is ISR practical, especially the ethical bit? Difficult but possible, making decisions based on what is good for greatest number of people. Promoting individual self-interest as long as it does not harm others. Making decisions with a belief that everyone has a fundamental right that should be respected and protected. Making decisions which treat everyone fairly and consistently.

I know CSR, how is ISR different?

  • ISR is at the roots of CSR, because a corporate comprises of individuals and hence determines the social responsibility culture it follows.
  • As CSR is being increasingly viewed as a tool to push wares a greater need for ISR is expected.
  • The example of kiva.org in giving people the power to empower is a big indicator of the shift.
  • If ISR becomes way of life CSR may be an automatic end result.

ISR is a tool for social change, powerful and practical

Sources:

“The Inconvenient truth about corporate fundraising” by Sean Triner

www.sofli.org

Workshop for Civic Initiatives Foundation (WCIF), Bulgaria, position statement on Social Responsibility.

http://www.wcif-bg.org/en/sr

Community support through a helping hand

Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community. (Anthony J. D ‘Angelo)

Perfection throughout the years to do good for communities and employees is a vision we work hard at.

To obtain all the hard work simple rewards like thank you and big smiles make every effort worthwhile.

With every donation we accomplish new beginnings; schools have funds for new equipment for mental and physical strength. Transport is provided to make every sports and cultural day a memorable one. Food on the table makes standing up in the mornings much easier.

 

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Social responsibility is a duty every individual has to perform to maintain a balance between the economy and the ecosystems and at the end of the day by giving back to the community and not receiving.

As simple as leftover food like meat, we makeup meat parcels and provide it to the nearest churches to give to the less fortunate communities. Corporations that care about the lives of people outside the walls of their businesses are more likely to create a positive environment.

Providing housing and fresh meat for employees and their families every week make being a worker worth the while.

KINDNESS THROUGH TEACHING!

 

Opening a stepping stone foundation like a pre- primary school for children whose parents does not have the financial capacity to send them elsewhere. To focus on the child’s educational, emotional and social development.

Helping someone learn can be beneficial to both teacher and student!

By taking the time to help someone learn, you could be positively impacting the future of their education through simple kindness! This impact could be carried on with the student who could help contribute to spreading kindness in their own life.

WE HAVE A HEART FOR ANIMALS

At Wild Hearts Rehab center we believe education is an integral component of the anti-poaching effort. We will maintain an Educational Facility for the local community, general public and youth to learn about the consequences of poaching, the benefits of wildlife rehabilitation and re-introduction and the need for conservation/preservation.

Our focus is on the rehabilitation of injured or orphaned animals and re-introducing them back into their native habitat.

“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” (Audrey Hepburn)

BENEFITS OF SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

 

  1. Positive Workplace Environment

When corporations exhibit philanthropic behaviour, they are more likely to provide employees with a positive workplace. Consequently, employees feel engaged and productive when they walk into work each day.

Instilling a strong culture of corporate social responsibility within every employee from the top down will help to create a positive and productive environment where employees can thrive.

Corporations that care about the lives of people outside the walls of their businesses are more likely to create a positive environment.

  1. Increase in Creativity

Employees who know that their employer is committed to bettering the local and global communities feel a stronger connection to the company. Because of this close relationship that employees share with their company, workers feel more inclined to be productive and creative.

Employers have identified creativity as one of the most important leadership qualities that an employee can possess. Creative employees enjoy working for companies that they can believe in and stand behind.

  1. Encourages Professional & Personal Growth

When companies have a culture of corporate social responsibility, they can easily promote volunteerism to their employees and encourage them to donate to non-profits.

When employees contribute their time and money to worthy causes, they develop professionally and personally.

By helping those in need and volunteering as teams, employees learn to work better together on important projects. Employees also experience a sense of pride when they know that they work for a company that cares about the community and encourages them to be passionate about worthy causes.

  1. Promotes Individual Philanthropy

When employees notice that the company they work for is involved in charitable endeavours, they play follow the leader and begin to engage in their own philanthropic activities.

If a company encourages group volunteerism and matches donations to non-profits with a matching gift program, an employee is more likely to take advantage of those programs and become more individually philanthropically minded.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Ever wondered what social responsibility mean for a company and the success they strive after? Here are a couple of interesting facts.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR)

One of the most important business ethics quality for an organization to become successful.   The reputation of an organization is very important and implementing social responsibility can increase positive satisfaction results towards stakeholders and customers.

Different organizations have framed different definitions – although there is considerable common ground between them. CSR is about how companies manage the business processes to produce an overall positive impact on society.

A business’s CSR can encompass a wide variety of tactics, from giving away a portion of a company’s proceeds to charity, to implementing “greener” business operations.

There are a few categories of social responsibility that many of today’s businesses are practicing:

  1. Environmental efforts:One primary focus of corporate social responsibility is the environment.
  2. Philanthropy:Businesses also practice social responsibility by donating to national and local charities.
  3. Ethical labor practices:By treating employees fairly and ethically, companies can also demonstrate their corporate social responsibility.
  4. Volunteering:Attending volunteer events says a lot about a company’s sincerity. By doing good deeds without expecting anything in return.

See more at http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/4679-corporate-social-responsibility.html#sthash.AIIFUkbp.dpuf

Examples of corporate social responsibility

Shoes, another notable example of a company with CSR at its core, donates one pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair a customer purchases. How about donating money to an individual, for example, every ten plastic bags/bottles or cans that are being picked up.

Practicing what you preach

Undertaking socially responsible initiatives is truly a win-win situation. Not only will your company appeal to socially conscious consumers and employees, but you’ll also make a real difference in the world.   “Engage your employees [and consumers] in giving back. Let them feel like they have a voice.”

 

The Donations of Wag ‘n Bietjie Lodge as part of Social responsibility

Donation

Simply means opening of hearts. Not a difficult word to understand. In some cases ultimately the best thing that can be given for those who do not have any. As a result we can give so much more back to our communities.

 

Education is a vital part of helping children build brighter futures. 

Owner Wiaan van der Linde opened a Pre-Primary School to give local children the opportunity to receive schooling in their preschool years and for children whose parents do not have the financial capacity to send their children elsewhere. No need to walk far and they have a much capable teacher at the school to teach the most important part of life’s stepping stones.

“Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.   -John Dewey-

By helping and supporting schools on different levels academic, sports and culture events are a donation by itself. To contribute money to schools for fundraisings to make teaching much easier. More possibilities to buy equipment for children to grow mentally and physically. Transport for learners to participate in sports and various cultural activities.

Donating to wildlife

Animals need to be fed and looked after if injured. At the Wild Hearts Rehabilitation Centre Wiaan van der Linde is the main sponsor. Where the focus is on injured and orphaned animals and to be re-introduce in their national habitat.

We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. -Winston Churchill

 

Meat parcels

Leftover meat that is still in good quality we send to the surrounding churches in Jacobsdal and Richie that takes the meat parcels to the less fortunate communities.

Just by donating small things in life, makes those things become big by itself. We are proud to be part of the small things.

The measure of a life, after all is not its Duration but its Donation -Corrie Ten Boom-

Why Consider a Self-Drive Holiday

The benefits of a self-drive holiday are multiple and should be considered before choosing your holiday.  One of the most important benefits of such a holiday is that it is the most cost-effective way to travel in Southern Africa.  Not only is it more cost effective, but you get to see a side of Southern Africa that will keep you coming back for more.  South Africa especially is known for its vast different landscapes and activities across the provinces.  Even more so, South Africa is known for its hidden treasures.  Beautiful quaint places that one do not see as part of an organised tour. 

As mentioned (by www.audleytravel.com) “one of the drawbacks of an organised tour is being shunted along with lots of other people to tourist attractions but then only having a limited amount of time to appreciate them, or spending time in the confined quarters of a coach, bus or train with people you have little or nothing in common with.”

Here are some more reasons why you should consider a self-drive holiday
  • You decide the overall pace of the holiday.
  • Regardless of the car type you choose, you have the total freedom and flexibility to get to places off the beaten track, and then spend as much time as you want there.
  • You can enjoy greater comfort and privacy.  This is especially appropriate for if you have a young family.
  • You get to experience the different cultures,people

    and facilities in their everyday lives.

  • You have to option to choose where you want to spend more or less time, depending on your own interests and experiences.
  • If you enjoy photography, a self-drive holiday is recommended.  You might, for instance, return to the same destination, but at a different time of day to catch the sunset or sunrise.
  • You get to choose your own type of accommodation.  Some people prefer staying in the hub of things, whilst others prefer a more secluded or scenic stop-over.

These are some of the benefits of choosing a self-drive holiday.  You can now enjoy the flexibility to decide for yourself to what degree this will suit your needs.

Sources

https://www.audleytravel.com

https://www.africantravel.com

http://www.thetravelparadise.net

Snacks on your Self-Drive Holiday

Packing the right kind and amount of food on your self-drive holiday is very important.  Not only can it save you unnecessary expenses, it also prevents your time being taken up by long queues in big cities.  Snacks must be easy to eat, but must also add to your road trip experience.  Having a picnic on the right spot with the right food will help to make your trip memorable.  Don’t forget that as a precaution it is also always advised that you have the necessary food and drinks with you in the case of an emergency.  Here are some tips to help you plan for your self-drive holiday snacks.

Preparing the Snacks

It is suggested that you start your trip with a tasty sandwich which you prepared the night before.  After all, you don’t want to start your holiday on an empty stomach.  A chicken mayo or tuna sandwich with fresh salad leaves are some favourites.  Remember to store the sandwiches overnight in the fridge.  It is suggested that you keep an allocated space in your fridge for all your snacks and sandwiches so that there is little chance that you forget some stuff in the fridge.   Here are some examples of what could be in your cooler box:

Ideas for your Cooler Box
  • Carrot and celery sticks & cucumber slices
  • Cherry tomatoes, pea pods, and olives
  • Water, sodas, and juice
  • Sandwiches and wraps
  • Cheese
  • Different fruits, like grapes, strawberries, bananas, oranges, apples, and cherries.
  • Cold slices meat
  • Chicken wings
  • Meatballs, sausage rolls, cocktail wieners
  • Potato salad or macaroni salad
  • Condiments like butter or margarine, tomato sauce, mayo, and chutney.
Snack Box

After you’ve made sure that you’ve got everything you need for your cooler box, you must pack you snack box or crate.  Here are some examples of what you can add:

  • Salt & Pepper and other spices
  • Bread, buns, crackers and tortillas
  • Muffins
  • Nuts, raisins, trail mix and pretzels
  • Chips
  • Granola bars and energy bars
Other Necessary Items
  • Paper towels, serviettes
  • Paper plates, forks, spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Thermos
  • Wet wipes
  • Garbage bags
  • Foil or zip lock bags
  • Never forget your wine glass!

If you have above mentioned, you should be able to make your trip memorable.  Now it’s time to enjoy your self-drive holiday!

Source

http://www.vacation-lists.com

 

Planning your Self-Drive Holiday

A self-drive holiday, could not only save you money, but it can be much more enjoyable.  You are able to enjoy the flexibility that other tours do not offer and experience small places and things that make your holiday memorable.  Unfortunately, a self-drive holiday can also go wrong if not well planned.  Here are some tips to help you with planning:

Begin your planning early

Start asking yourself questions like “what do you want to see?” And “where do you want to stay and what type of accommodation will you prefer?”  You can either make use of a travel agency or the internet to help you answer these questions.  Remember to look at customer reviews before booking your accommodation.

Plan your driving route

You need to think of not only the road you will be taking but also the places that you want to see.  Don’t forget to look at points of interest like museums, shopping, road stalls and amusement parks.  In small quaint towns, you might find special historic sights.

Book your accommodation

Although you want to remain flexible it is recommended that you make reservations for especially the beginning of your trip.  Make a folder that contains all the contact details, correspondence, and dates of arrival and departures.

Service your vehicle

On a self-drive holiday, you are very dependent on your vehicle, so make sure that your car has been serviced recently.  If it has been serviced, it is always a good idea to have the oil, tires, and fluids checked and filled.  Remember to always have a tire jack, spare tire, jumper cables, simple tools, a flashlight, and flares.  Make sure you have to contact numbers of emergency numbers with you.

Travel supplies

Double check that you have everything your family needs.  That will depend largely on the ages and interests of the family members.  For small children, you need to think of diapers, snacks, milk, bottles etc.  For older children, you need to think of things to keep them busy in the car.  The most important of all is to stack up on enough snacks and water for if you have an emergency.

Self-Drive Vacation in South Africa

Self-drive travelling in South Africa ensures that you see a unique side of the country that you haven’t seen before.  It can, however, prove to be challenging with the unpredictable elements of Africa.  Here are some tips for when you attempt a self-drive vacation in South Africa:

General tips
  • Keep to the prescribed speed limits.  “The general speed limit on South Africa’s national highways, urban freeways, and other major routes is 120km/h (75mph). On secondary (rural) roads it is 100km/h (60mph). In built-up areas, it is usually 60km/h (35mph) unless otherwise indicated.”  It is advisable that you always check the road signs.
  • It is advisable to switch on the headlights of your vehicle to be more visible to other drivers, especially in dusty or rainy conditions.
  • Many of the national roads between the major centres in South Africa are toll roads. Confirm the toll fees before you leave, and make sure that you have either a credit card or cash to pay.
    Toll fares may vary from R2.50 to R61.00 per toll plaza – you may pass through three or four of these before you reach your destination.
  • Make sure that you have a trustworthy and updated GPS.
Choose the best route

In South Africa, there are multiple routes to get to your destination.  Make sure you know what routes have road works and what routes have become difficult to drive on.  Also, make sure how far the gas stations are situated from each other.

What not to do when you self-drive

Rural areas can be particularly poorly lit and not all roads have proper fencing for animals and life stock.  You need to be mindful of drunk drivers, pedestrians and even life stock at night.  South Africans also know that Kudu’s tend to jump in front of cars at night, so it might be a good idea to avoid driving long distances at night.  Never leave your vehicle unlocked, even if it is for a short period.  Also never pick up strangers or hitchhikers.

Source

www.drivesouthafrica.co.za

Preparing for Your First Time on Safari

Going on a safari can be challenging for a first timer – even if you are a South African.  No one wants to look misplaced or be accused of frightening the animals away with their red shirts.  Here is some practical advice for your first safari experience:

What clothes do I need to wear?

Most camps encourage that guests wear clothing that fits in right with their bush environment.  That includes clothes of colours of beige, khaki, green or brown.  Make sure you know the temperatures of the place you are going to.  In winter in the Northern Cape, one can expect anything from very cold early morning and evenings to warm weather during mid-day.  Some basics one needs to have is T-shirts, a long sleeve shirt (one that can roll up preferably), vest, zip-off pants, hiking boots, warm jacket and a safari hat.

What necessities do you need to pack?

There are a few necessities that no person on safari should be without.  Sun block should definitely be your number one priority.  It doesn’t matter if it is in the middle of winter and icy cold, you should put sunblock on before you go out.  Also, put an extra sun block in your safari bag that must never leave that bag – you cannot afford to forget it at home.  Getting sunburnt and the sun sick on your first day is not something you want to report back home.  A hat and sunglasses will also be valuable in the African sun.

Mosquito and insect repellent is also an absolute must.  Before you go on safari, find out if you are in a malaria zone to get the appropriate medications.  There are lots of reading material about what to pack in your first aid bag and always remember your travel insurance!

A common mistake on your first safari

Buying hiking boots just before you go on safari and never walking in them before can really cause uncomfortable blisters.  Even if you think you are only going on a game drive, make sure that the boots you’ve got are comfortable.  Remember, you are still in Africa and unexpected things can happen – An unexpected walk in the bush will definitely not be a rare occurrence in Africa.

Other tips

It can become so hot over midday that most safari companies do not take their clients out over this time of day.  A book and swimsuit will really come in handy during your afternoon relaxation time.  Remember to rehydrate often and listen to what your guide are saying.  They are really knowledgeable on factors regarding the bush and create a valuable experience for you.

Now it’s time for you to go and enjoy your first African Safari!!