Page 10 - Dainfern Precinct Living Issue 8 2024

HOME FRONT Natalie du Toit

FROM HARDSHIP TO

HOW COMMUNITY EFFORTS

HOPE CHANGED AMOS' LIFE

n the heart of Fourways, a story of resilience, community, and cleanups. They rely on the support of residents and businesses, and
second chances is unfolding, thanks to the efforts of Better Amos’ story is a shining example of the positive impact that can be
IFourways and Lawn Care Plus. achieved when a community comes together.
Nick Dunn, the owner of Lawn Care Plus, recently shared a For Amos, who had been living on the edge of desperation, the
heartwarming development: “Amidst all the efforts we’ve put into opportunity to work with Lawn Care Plus was life changing. As of 1st
revitalising the area, a remarkable story emerged. One of the men August, he has been offered full-time employment with the company,
living in the informal settlement we were cleaning up approached us, a chance he never thought possible. “My dream was about survival,”
eager to help. His dedication and hard work stood out so much that Amos shared. “I am now 37 years old and only got this permanent
we offered him full-time employment. Now fully equipped, he’ll work job. It’s too early to set goals as I have had plenty of challenges and
with us five days a week, and we’re thrilled to have him on board.” still cannot believe this happened to me. I want to save the money
first that I am earning before deciding what to do.”
The man at the centre of this story is Amos, a 37-year-old Fourways
resident who lost everything during the Covid-19 pandemic. Amos Amos’ story is not just about one man’s journey; it’s about the power
has been living in an informal settlement, scraping by day-to-day of community, the importance of giving back, and the belief that
in a makeshift shack near busy Witkoppen Road. Life had been a everyone deserves a second chance. Lawn Care Plus and Better
constant struggle for Amos, who, despite finishing only Standard 3, Fourways prove that with a bit of effort and compassion, we can all
had always found ways to survive. “I can survive and will never give make a difference in someone’s life.
up, whatever is thrown at me,” Amos said, reflecting on the harsh
realities of his life.

Before the pandemic, Amos found occasional work as a gardener
and painter, but nothing permanent. When Covid-19 hit, those
opportunities disappeared, forcing him to return to his childhood
home in Giyani. Amos lived with distant relatives with no work and
no money, but the overwhelming challenges they all faced meant he
had to fend for himself. Determined to find a way out, Amos returned
to Fourways, seeking shelter with a cousin in Cosmo City while
searching for work.
When Better Fourways and Lawn Care Plus began their cleanup
efforts in the area where he lived, Amos saw a glimmer of hope.
“When I saw what they were doing and the difference they were
making, I volunteered to help them,” he recalled. For two weeks,
Amos worked tirelessly, knowing that this was his chance to prove
himself and possibly escape the cycle of poverty that had defined
his life. His dedication and hard work quickly caught the attention of
Nick Dunn and the Lawn Care Plus team.
“It was clear to me that this was a short-term project,” Amos
explained. “I was determined to prove myself. Nick and his manager
Schalk recognised how hard I worked and the difference I was
making.”
Better Fourways is a community-driven initiative focused on
revitalising and maintaining the Fourways area. Better Fourways is
committed to creating a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant community
through various projects such as grass cutting, litter removal,
vegetation management, stormwater drainage, and comprehensive

HOW YOU CAN MAKING A DIFFERENCE IS EASY!

GET INVOLVED BANK DETAILS:
• Bank: Standard Bank Fourways Mall
To make a lasting impact and ensure • Account Name: Better Fourways
• Account Number: 333 049 624
the sustainability of Better Fourways, • Reference: Your Name/Business Name
please consider setting up a monthly Please email your details and proof of payment to:
info@betterfourways.org.za
contribution. Regular donations Website: https://betterfourways.org.za/
enable us to plan and execute By setting up a repeat payment every
ongoing projects more effectively. We month, you are directly contributing to
need all residents and businesses the enhancement of our community.
Your support enables us to continue
to become contributing members of our essential work, ensuring Fourways
Better Fourways. remains a clean, safe, and vibrant area for
everyone.
8 DPL issue 4 2024