GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - If you want to see change, you need to actively participate in efforts to make a difference. The Garden Route SPCA (GRSPCA) George and Mossel Bay branches are looking for a very special breed of people to become members of their committee.

They are looking for dedicated people who are willing to commit their time, effort and expertise to ensure the survival of not only the GRSPCA, but also the hundreds of animals in its care.

Each SPCA is an independently registered non-profit organisation responsible for its own operations and, with no financial support from government, funding is key.

The main reason some SPCAs have closed over the past 20 years is the lack of community support. Each SPCA needs an elected management committee comprised of local people. This is the body that directs, plans, organises and ensures the future of the SPCA.

In instances when an insufficient number of people from the surrounding community can be found to undertake this function, the SPCA has floundered and closure has followed. Please do not let this happen in our area.

Do not take the SPCA for granted. Instead become a part of its future and the solution to animal welfare in your district.

The SPCA provides a service that is essential to the animals and the community. Far too often when an SPCA is in financial difficulty, well-meaning people come forward offering to help by raising funds. This is deeply appreciated but ensuring the existence of an SPCA is an around-the-clock function and firmly vested in the community.

Serving on a committee needn't be daunting and it does not involve work at operational level. Please enquire to find out what skills are needed and how you may be able to help.

Individuals, especially with business backgrounds, may submit a short CV to chairperson@grspca.co.za.

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