The Selfless Efforts that Inspired a Community
The Selfless Efforts that Inspired a Community
Another fire season has passed and despite at least one big fire in the region, damage was kept to a minimum thanks to the dedicated fire fighters of the various Fire Brigades, as well as the Volunteer Wildfire Services.
Needless to say the fires were a talking point throughout the valley and beyond and many people donated their time and resources, even though they were not able to physically help fight the fire. Water, food and other supplies were donated to help ease the load on the fire fighters and it was one of the most talked about subjects on social networking and news sites, with many people sharing their insights but most importantly, their support.
The most shared photo on ShowMe Paarl’s Facebook page was of a silhouette of a group of fire fighters on the Franschoek mountains, reminiscent of the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima during the Second World War, and as quite a few people commented, symbolised not only the devastation the fire had caused but the selfless bravery these men and woman displayed in putting their lives at risk to help stop the destruction of property and possible loss of life.
Many were inspired by the images and actions of the fire fighters and the Volunteer Fire Services are now giving people the opportunity to give back to the community and possibly becoming a volunteer fire fighter by attending one of their recruitment days. There are no specific criteria regarding age, gender or character type, but applicants must be over 18 years of age and physically fit. For those that are not fit or would like to help in other ways, the Volunteer Wildfire Services is also looking for control room operators, planning and logistics members, so by all means, feel free to attend.
One of the volunteers, who ShowMe interviewed earlier this year, is Kirstin Cilliers, who is finishing her BSc in Geology at Stellenbosch University. Read the article here.
Most of the volunteers have day jobs, some are students, others run their own companies – but all are dedicated, motivated and highly-trained to ensure that the ultimate goal for the Volunteer Wildfire Services of wildfire suppression is taken care of. They currently have over 150 volunteer members from all walks of life.
To see the dates and times the recruitment days will take place, CLICK HERE.
Giving of yourself is the most selfless gift you can give your fellow man and the knowledge that your actions are making a real difference is a great reward, despite the hard and sometimes dangerous work.
There are various non-profit organisations in Paarl and Wellington and most of them are looking for volunteers to help out in some way or another. ShowMe actively supports our charities and we have many listed on our site. See our list of charities here and see how you can get involved and make a difference in our community.