SARLA Supports SA Children Helping Children
South Africa’s children are her greatest hope for the future of this magnificent country. The South African Rugby Legends Association (SARLA) is committed to the youth of our country and continues to pledge support and aid charity organisations that make a difference in the lives of children across South Africa.
Although SARLA is best known for the massive contribution to the development of sport, specifically rugby, in South Africa, there are a number of projects that deserve to have a much higher profile.
SARLA Speaks To Kirsty Watts About Children Helping Children in South Africa
14-year old Kirsty Watts was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour in 2007. After a lengthy operation, came the devastating news that she had to undergo six months of chemotherapy and thirty- three days of radiation. With her family’s extensive support Kirsty made it through the gruelling process. At times depressed, and reeling from the physical effects of the treatment, Kirsty Watts made a monumental discovery: She was one of the lucky ones.
Treated at the best hospitals and surrounded by top specialists and surgeons, Kirsty knew that there were hundreds, even thousands of children who did not have the means or the access to specialised treatment facilities. The Kirsty Watts Foundation was established while Kirsty was in hospital and became a driving force in the teenager’s road to recovery.
SARLA is honoured to be able to support The Kirsty Watts Foundation as it embodies the very spirit of South Africa and the ethos of a new generation of proud South Africans. The mission of the foundation is “Kids Helping Kids” and Kirsty works tirelessly to raise funds and awareness for children who are less fortunate than she is.
Kirsty receives guidance from the trustees of the foundation, but oversees all of the projects and identifies organisations and children in need. The foundations hosts golf days, poker challenges and other fundraising events throughout the year. In 2011 the Kirsty Watts Foundation Golf Day raised R400 000 for projects and outreach programmes.
The projects that the foundation undertakes to support are close to Kirsty’s heart after her own ordeal and recovery: The Steve Biko Paediatric Oncology Ward, the Bara Paed Ward and the current refurbishment of the Lesedi Home For Children with mental and physical difficulties.
“Kids Helping Kids”; organisations like the Kirsty Watts Foundation, is a sign of hope for the entire country. It strengthens the commonality between us and raises the spirit of giving, volunteerism and values.
Golf Day 2012 – Parkview Golf Course
The Kirsty Watts Foundation Golf Day was held on 26 October 2012 and has beaten the R400 000 raised at the 2011 event with a total of close to R500 000. Hosted by the Parkview Golf, the event was a massive success and is becoming one of the preeminent charity Golf Days in Johannesburg. The overwhelming response from return sponsors and keen golfers alike is one of the most heart-warming and inspiring events organised by Kirsty herself and the team at the Kirsty Watts Foundation. Every rand raised on the day and from the generosity of the sponsors and golfers goes directly to the organisations that are helped by The Kirsty Watts Foundation.
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