South Africa Development Fund

Actively involved in grassroots environmental justice campaigns to protect the rights and improve the health of communities battling toxic waste and corporate pollution of air and water.

How do you help people in my community?

There are two answers to this question. First, South Africa Development Fund has been an active participant in educating the American public about issues in South Africa, and in providing opportunities for South Africans to speak in the U.S. There has been much to learn from the South African experience of overcoming racial divide, particularly from the current healing process - a process which has been largely unsuccessful in the U.S.
Second, when we address human rights violations, whether by speaking out or by providing relief, the "community" becomes global. Defeating apartheid was an international collaboration, as is the continuing struggle to battle injustice.

Why do you need my support?

The work of South Africa Development Fund is about people-to-people exchange. Money from individuals has provided the bulk of the support we have given to poor communities. Donations, however small, have been shown to make a critical difference to projects in South Africa. The South Africa Development Fund is unique in that it is run entirely by South Africans who lived for many years in the US, some of who have returned home. They envision a country that fulfills the dreams and sacrifices of South Africans like Nelson Mandela, Steve Biko and millions of their countrymen.

We hope you will join us in furthering the work of all our civil society advocates. These determined groups remind us that the quest for an equitable democratic society doesn’t end with a vote, but must foster active citizenship on fundamental social issues. They represent the hopes of millions of South Africans seeking relief from poverty, homelessness, and disease. For these South Africans, the struggle goes on.

How can I be sure that you will use my money wisely and won't waste it?

The South Africa Development Fund submits to an annual audit and the results are made available to donors. All finances are supervised by accountants and the Board of Directors. Operating costs are kept to a bare minimum in order to maximize the amount of grant money available to South African organizations. One of the unique features of the organization is that its mission is shaped by a board of South Africans in the U.S. and abroad who determine the most efficient use of our grant money.

Can I Volunteer? How?

It is always helpful to have assistance in raising funds for projects in South Africa. Every little bit helps. If you want to raise funds for our cause, please contact us. Our website can be seen at the following address: www.SADevelopmentFund.org.