- LifeMatters Foundation (LMF), founded in 2002 by Meadowridge
Baptist Church, focuses on supporting disadvantaged youth in the Constantiaberg
area, particularly in community schools. - The foundation offers both academic and psycho-social
development programs. - LMF is actively seeking volunteers to join their mission of
creating lasting change by providing educational and emotional support to help
children succeed and build resilience.
Since its establishment in 2002 by Meadowridge Baptist Church the LifeMatters Foundation (LMF) has been dedicated to serving the youth of the greater Constantiaberg area.
With a focus on disadvantaged community schools, LMF is working tirelessly to help learners overcome the challenges of their environments and bridge the education gap that so many face.
“The foundation of our work is rooted in the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed,” says Kirsty Nortje, Literacy Programme Manager at LifeMatters.
LMF’s comprehensive approach includes both the academic and psycho-social development of children.
The foundation’s academic portfolio is aimed at improving literacy and numeracy for under-performing Grade 2 and 3 learners through targeted interventions, such as the Shine Literacy Hour programme.
This programme is designed to help learners keep up with their academic curriculum and build a strong foundation in key learning areas.
“We focus specifically on literacy and numeracy, as they are the building blocks for academic success. Children who struggle in these areas are often held back, but with the right support, they can catch up and thrive,” explains Kirsty.
“Our volunteers play a crucial role in this process, offering one-on-one support that helps (learners) gain confidence and build essential skills.”
In addition to academic support, LMF also recognises the importance of addressing the psycho-social needs of learners, particularly in communities that face significant socio-economic challenges. The LifeSkills Portfolio offers a variety of programmes to support learners’ emotional well-being and personal development.
These include counselling, life skills camps, and teenage awareness programmes, all designed to equip young people with the tools to navigate adolescence and become active, engaged citizens.
“The psycho-social support we provide is just as important as the academic interventions,” says Kirsty. “Children facing adversity need more than just academic help; they need guidance and emotional support to thrive and build resilience in the face of challenges.”
As part of their mission to expand their impact, LMF is actively seeking volunteers to join their team. “Volunteers do not need specific qualifications – just a heart for children and a commitment to making a positive difference.
“Whether you can dedicate an hour a week or more, your contribution can have a lasting impact,” Kirsty added. “Volunteering with us is an opportunity to be part of something truly meaningful helping children overcome challenges and build a brighter future.”
With a vision to see all children in disadvantaged communities succeed, LifeMatters Foundation continues to make significant strides toward creating lasting change.
By addressing both the academic and emotional needs of learners, they are empowering young people to rise above their circumstances and create a better future for themselves.
