Hi Nthabi, thanks for chatting to us. Tell us more about Give Books, change lives initiative?
The Give Books; Change Lives children’s books drive is a response to the fact that the majority of children in South Africa do not have access to books and libraries and have therefore they do not read storybooks. Only 7% of our schools have functioning libraries. And since it’s the season of giving – let’s put the power of giving into the hands of our customers, supporters, and fans.
We have partnered with 3 reputable NGOs, @ShineCentre @biblionefsa @nalibaliSA who run literacy projects for the benefit of less fortunate children.
How it works is:
1. A person (or company) sends us their pledge amount or pays it directly into our account:
Bank: Nedbank
Account Name: Puo Educational Products
Account Number: 1977061915
Branch: Rosebank (197705)
2. We will then deliver the books to the NGOs who will then distribute the brand new books to the children in their programmes.
2. When was it launched?
We launched the initiative on 31st October through emails, social media and word of mouth. We’ve also had some radio coverage on SAfm http://iono.fm/e/115191?autoplay=1 and Radio2000.
3. How’s the journey been and what are some of the challenges that you come across when you communicate the message about #givebookschangelives?
The response has been very positive. A challenge would be that at this time of year people are inundated with requests, but we’ve found that people then pledge a lesser amount, rather than not pledging at all.
4. Which provinces do you distribute the books at?
All 9 provinces
5. What is the success rate?
Within 3 weeks we had 1285 books pledged – this will make a big impact on children who would otherwise not know the joy of and thrill of storybooks to captivate the imagination. Or not have the opportunity to read for pleasure, or books that they can relate to. There are numerous benefits to reading – from educational through to building self-confidence – that we want is to give as many children as possible the opportunity for fun, locally relevant storybooks.
6. Do you find it effective when you also add social media as a means of communication?
Yes as its very effective inn spreading our message. People have retweeted, liked and forwarded onto their networks.
7. What is your main objective as Puo?
Our reason for being is to enrich children’s lives through Africa’s heritage. Be it storybooks, apps or games, Africa has a wealth of stories to be told and we want our children to hear them.
8. How can one help and how do we contact you?
-spread the word: ‘share’ our statuses, tweet, retweet, forward our mailer
http://puo.co.za/products/educational_products/Give-books-Change-lives.html
-make a pledge and encourage pledges: 1 book costs R60. Get your employer involved, club together as friends, or even if you go solo, as long as that translates into more books for more children than #happiness Every pledge counts.
-direct people to our website: www.puo.co.za for more info on #givebookschangelives
We can be reached on info@puo.co.za
