RCS supports youth growth and development with JAG Foundation

Last week, Cape Town’s iconic Mount Nelson Hotel hosted the eagerly awaited sixth annual auction, held in support of the JAG Foundation. This year’s event saw retail consumer finance provider and benefactor, RCS, raise an impressive total of just over R1 million. This substantial contribution will play a pivotal role in turning the JAG Foundation’s vision into a reality – offering children in high-risk communities positive lifestyles through their sport and play programmes in the Western Cape.

RCS CEO Regan Adams, reflecting on the achievements of this year’s event, emphasises the pivotal role he believes South Africa’s private sector can play in fostering positive transformations, both in terms of its internal stakeholders and their communities, as well as external initiatives in need of support.

As he explains: “Our partnership with the JAG Foundation is indicative of our commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen and to making a difference where it matters most. Tangible manifestations of the JAG Foundation’s overarching mission include value-based sport and play programmes, training facilitation and mentorship, and the provision of safe transport.

“Our mission embodies inclusive nation-building and fostering better financial inclusion for every South African. This has been the driving force behind our investment of time and resources, all working toward a bigger goal: creating communities where children can truly thrive. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to our invaluable partner network whose generous contributions played a pivotal role in the resounding success of this year’s auction.”

The auction had an array of irresistible items up for grabs. Among the highlights, lucky bidders secured three extraordinary White Desert experiences to the Antarctica, two cutting-edge e-bikes, a luxurious 60-foot motorised yacht cruise for an exclusive party of 10, spanning from sunrise to sunset. Not to be missed was the iconic Snoopy painting, created by the talented painting pig, Pigcasso, alongside a collection of other unique art pieces and unforgettable experiences.

Events like this inject vital funds to expand initiatives like the JAG Foundation’s BullyProof Programme, which addresses playground bullying using ball games. A portion of the proceeds will support the foundation’s Role Model Bursary Fund, aiding families in need with school expenses like fees, uniforms and sports gear.

In its 16th year, the JAG Foundation has transformed high-risk communities, offering safe and nurturing environments for South African youth to learn and play. In these areas, plagued by gangsterism, drugs and crime, safety is a rare luxury.

With the support of its benefactors and volunteers, the JAG Foundation hopes to turn the tide against these social ills and build healthier, happier communities throughout South Africa. 

Thanking RCS and its network of partners, Schalk van der Merwe, chairperson of the JAG Foundation, concludes that the impact of events such as this year’s auction is far-reaching. “The proceeds of the auction will make a tangible difference in the lives of thousands of young South Africans and their families.”