Watch this 5 min video explaining what OASIS is: 

Introduction:

We are an NPO called ‘THE OASIS’. Over 20+years we have evolved. From small beginnings we have helped partners and funders to deliver meaningful results - contributing to make real change to the lives of 150,000.

Along the way we have learned how to bridge shortfalls that exist in traditional Social Development and support programmes. As the word has spread, communities, families and lost-souls are turning more and more for help at THE OASIS.  

Our plan is to gear up to meet this escalating demand. We have systems and a strategy. Now, with your support, together we will bring change to the lives of thousands more.

The Problem: 

As the gap between socially advantaged v disadvantaged widens, conventional support and interventions are failing; Cape Town has an increasing level of chronic homelessness.

Parents in townships struggle with widespread unemployment, lack of education, skills and low self-esteem. Their children are exposed to social and family violence, sexual abuse, drug and alcohol abuse. Many children end up bunking school and living on the streets.

With little else to turn to, the appeal of gangs and gang life is prevailing. Communities live in fear. Families watch as the gangs lure youth to an apparently attractive life of easy wins. This is responsible for increased crime and violence, gender disrespect, HIV/AIDS, early teenage pregnancy, TB, alcohol/drugs abuse.

Over 20% of learners in South Africa have either been threatened or experienced some form of violence in schools. 31% consume alcohol as a way to release stress and feel part of peer groups

There is a chasm between SD policy and the realities of life. Traditional social interventions aren’t effective in the ganglands. People are scared, subject to peer pressure.

To be successful we need is to go out and meet people in their own environment and on their own terms.

We need to change the perception that it’s cool to be in gangs and miss school. We need to focus on ways that prove to our kids that it’s cooler not to be. And give them options that they can see are right and will work.

What makes us different:

We are based and operate in and on the streets where we know how to be effective

Our programmes go out and find the people who need us and invite them to return and stay for help and support

We are accepted by the gangs. Have earned recognition and respect for what we are doing and achievements in overlooked communities

We know how to identify and attract people in need; then follow and support their individual re-integration journey. Like a family we are there at every stage with love and attention to fit complex individual needs

Opening young eyes and minds. Education, awareness. Giving hope. Providing answers.

Our programs

Events with integrated learning – offering street fun and a choice from crime.

• A place at THE OASIS for rest and recovery
• Individual support for their journey to re-integration

1. Various sports OUTREACH programmes (stimulate participation, fun, high repeat attendance, recruitment)
   1. Daily games on the streets, in communities; weekly events and tournaments at THE OASIS
   2. At schools to help prevent absenteeism and raise awareness of LIFE and HEALTH basics
      
2. Programmes designed by age (U4-10’s; U11–15’s; U16-21’s; 21–35’s+
   1. Mixed gender - OASIS Street soccer and netball
   2. Learning integrated into game-play and coaching (for players, community, spectators)
      
      
3. Home-from-home facilities at THE OASIS (rest, protection, respect, support and love) 
   1. Sport and recreation
   2. Food and shelter; residential care
   3. Community hall, ablutions, shops
   4. Teaching (skills, trades)
   5. Work, placements, career development
   6. Social re-integration (learning respect, etc
   7. Rehabilitation (social work, counselling, group therapy, etc)