Run 4 Charity

The goal of this project is to raise 5,000 CHF, or more, through a fundraising event to build new homes for vulnerable communities in South Africa, improving the living conditions of individuals and families supported by Swiss4Afrika. Through the construction of pre-fabricated homes, we aim to offer protection from extreme weather, ensuring residents have access to better shelter, electricity, and water. This project will significantly improve the health, safety, and overall quality of life for children, the elderly, and vulnerable individuals. In the long term, we aspire to help these communities break free from the cycle of poverty, providing them with a stable foundation for education, employment, and a brighter future. By addressing their critical housing needs, we hope to empower these communities to become more self-sustainable, leading to long-lasting social and economic impact. This project will contribute to creating stronger, more resilient communities.

The project addresses the urgent need for safe and sustainable housing in impoverished communities in South Africa. Many families supported by Swiss4Afrika live in deteriorating shelters with no electricity or water, exposed to extreme weather conditions like intense heat, cold winters, and rains. These conditions make daily life difficult, especially for children, the elderly, and vulnerable individuals. The goal is to replace these shelters with pre-fabricated homes that provide better protection and a safer, healthier living environment. Swissential, a financial planning firm, is partnering with Swiss4Afrika to raise funds through the 2025 Geneva Marathon. The funds will go directly toward building new homes that improve living conditions and offer these communities the opportunity to break free from poverty. This collaboration aims to provide a foundation for a better quality of life, stability, and financial sustainability, empowering people to create a brighter future.

The need for action is urgent due to the unsafe, deteriorating living conditions faced by communities supported by Swiss4Afrika in South Africa. Many families live in shelters without electricity or water, exposed to extreme weather conditions, which puts their health and safety at risk, particularly for children and the elderly. The problem is time-sensitive because these individuals are vulnerable to immediate threats from heat, cold, and rain. Delaying action means continuing to expose them to unsafe living conditions. If not addressed, the consequences will be severe, these communities will remain trapped in poverty, unable to escape their harsh realities. Without proper housing, they will lack stability and opportunities for education and employment, perpetuating cycles of poverty and suffering. Taking action now is crucial to provide a safer, healthier environment and offer these individuals a chance at a better future.

To achieve our goal of providing safe housing, Swiss4Afrika and Swissential will take the following measures: 1. Geneva Marathon Fundraising: A team from Swissential will participate in the 2025 Geneva Marathon to raise funds. Each participant will gather donations, and all funds raised will go toward building pre-fabricated homes. 2. Community Engagement: Swiss4Afrika will ensure the needs of the community are understood and raise awareness about the project. 3. Home Construction: Funds will be used to replace deteriorating shelters with pre-fabricated homes that offer better protection from extreme weather. Resources: - Financial Support: Funds raised from the marathon will cover construction and infrastructure costs. - Personnel: Swissential will handle fundraising, and Swiss4Afrika will manage the project, working with local contractors. - Know-How: Swiss4Afrika’s expertise in community development will ensure effective project implementation.

Swiss4Afrika and Swissential have partnered since 2023 to support housing and community development in South Africa. In 2023, we raised 10,000 CHF through the Geneva Marathon, enabling the construction of two senior homes and two dormitories. For the 2025 Geneva Marathon, our goal is to raise 5,000 CHF. Any additional funds raised will go toward further uplifting minority communities living in poverty in South Africa, focusing on improving housing, education, and living conditions. This ongoing collaboration combines Swiss4Afrika’s expertise in community development with Swissential’s fundraising efforts, making a lasting impact on vulnerable communities in South Africa.

Providing new homes to people living in poverty has a significant impact. By offering decent housing, we restore their dignity, which is the first step in rebuilding their lives. Safe, secure homes give individuals a foundation where they can regain stability and focus on improving their future. Once they have reliable shelter, they can begin to acquire necessary skills and education, opening doors to employment and personal growth. This stability enables them to reintegrate into society and break free from the cycle of poverty. The new homes will provide not just shelter but also the hope and opportunity for a better life. Ultimately, this project transforms lives. By ensuring people have a safe place to live, we empower them to rebuild, gain independence, and contribute positively to their communities. The long-term impact is the creation of more stable, self-sustaining individuals and families who can thrive in society.

The special quality of this project lies in the strong partnership between Swissential and Swiss4Afrika. Swissential, an established financial company in Switzerland, has a proven track record in fundraising and financial management, ensuring efficient use of funds. Swiss4Afrika brings extensive experience in community development in South Africa, having successfully completed housing projects for vulnerable communities. This combination of financial expertise and local knowledge ensures the project’s success. Swiss4Afrika’s on-the-ground presence ensures culturally sensitive implementation, while Swissential provides the financial oversight needed for long-term sustainability. Together, they form a powerful partnership that guarantees the project’s impact and longevity, improving the lives of those in need and fostering sustainable development in South Africa.