As part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, which began on November 25 and will continue until December 10, the Community Police Forums (CPFs), in collaboration with various stakeholders, will be hosting a community walk in Kareedouw on November 29.
Christelle Visser, a member of the local CPFs, stated that the CPFs play a crucial role in fostering collaboration between communities and law enforcement agencies, such as the South African Police Service (SAPS).
She highlighted that the CPFs’ focus on outreach programmes is an essential part of building trust, improving community safety, and ensuring better communication between residents and the police.
By collaborating with the Victim Support Centre in Kareedouw, Visser noted that CPFs extend their efforts to support individuals affected by crime.
This partnership enhances their ability to provide emotional, legal, and practical support while fostering a safer community environment.
“CPFs make use of outreach programmes to directly engage with residents, addressing safety concerns, educating about crime prevention, and promoting community-based solutions to local issues,” said Visser.
She further mentioned that earning the trust and assistance of local businesses is a significant achievement.
Local businesses’ involvement also adds resources and credibility to CPFs and the Victim Support Centre’s initiatives.
Visser explained that in previous years, outreach events centred around gatherings in a hall, where speeches, pamphlets, and refreshments played a significant role in educating and engaging the community.
While these efforts were impactful, it has been recognised that there is a need for a more dynamic and participatory approach to reach even more people.
Visser announced that this year, they are moving away from the traditional format by organising a community walk.
“The goal is to bring together a diverse group of participants, fostering a sense of unity while spreading awareness in a more visible, interactive manner,” she said. “Walking through the community allows for real-time engagement with passersby who may not have attended the hall event.”
Visser emphasised that a walk encourages people to participate physically and emotionally, strengthening their connection to the cause.
“This format promotes togetherness, reinforcing shared goals and enthusiasm,” Visser added.
She said the walk aims to promote diverse attendance and draw greater attention within the community.
To encourage participation, the first 100 attendees will receive a commemorative T-shirt, serving as both an incentive and a reminder of the significance of the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
Since its establishment in 2012, Visser said that the Victim Support Centre has remained largely unknown to many in the community.
However, through initiatives like this walk, efforts are being made to increase its visibility and ensure that people are aware of the centre’s existence and the crucial services it provides.
“Together, we can foster a more informed and supportive community,” said Visser.
She expressed their belief that no one should suffer in silence, instead, every voice matters, and help is always available.
In line with their commitment to creating a safer, more supportive community, they are working tirelessly to ensure the White Door Centre of Hope, an extension of the Victim Support Centre, becomes a permanent sanctuary for those in need.
“Together, let’s break the silence and take action every single day.”
Visser highlighted that by involving a wide range of stakeholders, including community forums, governmental departments, businesses, and educational institutions, they ensure that the initiative is truly inclusive and well-supported.
She mentioned that this event marks a significant milestone for their town, as it’s the first time they will come together in such a way to foster unity and collaboration.
By reaching out to local businesses, Visser said they have gained significant support and have raised awareness about their shared mission to make a difference in people’s lives and address critical issues like crime and poverty.
While the Victim Support Centre has been serving the community of Kareedouw since 2012, she said this event has brought its work into the spotlight for many who may not have been aware of its existence.
Visser expressed special gratitude to the senior citizens of the town, who graciously contributed their time and effort in preparing refreshments ahead of the event.
“This collaboration truly embodies the spirit of community and shows what we can achieve when we all work together,” she said.
The walk has received generous sponsorships and contributions from Kwik Spar Kareedouw, Vuka Timbers, Tsitsikamma Crystals, and Woodlands Dairy. The 3km community walk is free of charge and will start and finish at Kagiso Heights Community Hall at 10:00.
