Social responsibility
Over the years we’ve been involved with, and have had links to a variety of social and environmental responsibility projects and organisations. We are very aware of our privileged position in the economy of Southern Africa and we realise that we have the potential to support worthy causes and NGOs by committing to monthly contributions (as we do with Home from Home) as well as connecting international visitors and their generous dollars to organisations such as UTHANDO and Hoops 4 Hope. We have partnered with preferred suppliers to support Rhino protection funds as well as Gorilla Habitat Regeneration initiatives. Being a small team that has been together for a long time, we’ve taken on causes and charities that resonate with the individuals in our office, for example, a family Soup Kitchen operation and the Santa Shoebox Project.
If you’d like to know more or get involved, read on…
Malachite Foundation
Every journey with African Safari Consultants helps make a difference. Through the Malachite Foundation, a small contribution of USD $10 is added to every booking, with all funds directed towards causes that matter most to our team. Rather than supporting a single charity, we invest in a range of community, conservation and humanitarian initiatives across Southern Africa, allowing us to respond where the need is greatest. Together with our travellers, we’re able to create a positive impact that extends well beyond the safari itself.
HOME FROM HOME
Home from Home provides community-based foster care for children who have experienced neglect or abuse, giving them the stability, care and support they need to thrive. Through monthly donations, the Malachite Foundation helps support family homes and an educare centre in Khayelitsha, providing counselling, education and opportunities for children in vulnerable communities. Guests can also visit Home from Home as part of a privately guided Uthando community tour in Cape Town.
SANTA SHOEBOX PROJECT
Towards the end of each year our office becomes a colourful Santa Shoebox packing zone as we frantically shop for, sort, pack and decorate as many shoeboxes as we can. It has become a tradition amongst our team to support this worthy local cause and the giving spirit is catchy! The Santa Shoebox Project distributes the personally labeled boxes filled with gifts, educational supplies and useful items to thousands of underprivileged children who would not normally receive a Christmas gift.
TREE PLANTING IN RWANDA
The Rwanda Park Expansion and Reforestation Program is a Wilderness Safaris and Bisate Lodge initiative aimed at increasing the natural habitat of the endangered Mountain Gorilla. Southern Destinations has adopted a 1-hectare plot of land dedicated to planting indigenous trees on behalf of our VIP clients, whether they be regular repeat guests or refer us to their friends, colleagues, and family. Each tree is geo-located and clients can visit their trees and track their progress as they grow.
hoops 4 hope
Southern Destinations has supported Hoops 4 Hope for more than 25 years, helping connect travellers with one of Southern Africa’s most inspiring youth development organisations. Through sport, life skills education and community mentorship, Hoops 4 Hope empowers thousands of young people across South Africa and Zimbabwe. Guests can also contribute sports equipment or balls when travelling to Africa, helping make an even greater impact.