The “angel” of Elands Bay who’s bringing hope to those in need.
One person can make a difference. Dorothy van Rooi—a woman whose heart beats for the elderly and underprivileged children of Elands Bay—is a case in point. Despite facing financial hardship herself, she devotes her time, love and patience to uplifting those who need it most, proving that true wealth lies in compassion and service.
As vice-chairperson of the Turning Tides project, Dorothy, along with seven other dedicated management members, continues the work initiated by Mario van Wyk and Robert Oktober in 2020 to give back to the community that raised them.
In 2022, the project began with a heartfelt gesture when Mario and Robert organised the first formal dinner for elderly Elands Bay residents. Soon after, Dorothy and her team joined the cause, expanding its reach and impact. Last year, they applied for official NPO registration and are now eagerly awaiting approval so as to open doors to greater possibilities.
Dignity, comfort & support
Turning Tides’ mission is to restore dignity and bring comfort to the elderly while offering essential support to disadvantaged children. Whether it’s knitting scarves, sleeping socks and blankets to shield the elderly from the coastal chill or collecting school shoes and sanitary towels for children, this organisation is the epitome of kindness.
‘Many children in our community are desperate for sports gear and clothing,’ Dorothy explained. ‘We continuously seek donations for netball, soccer and rugby teams, and we know that with the right support, some of our young athletes could go far. There’s so much more we can do once our registration is approved.’
But it’s not just the young who need care. ‘We dream of taking our elderly on outings, celebrating them with special meals on occasions such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Mandela Day.’ She added that Albertus Cloete, who is disabled, provides invaluable work in feeding underprivileged people spiritually. ‘Mariette Louw Capes, Andick Engelbrecht, Madeleine Knoetze and the Windsong NGO also have travelled a long road at the side of Turning Tides.’
Now a pensioner herself, Dorothy has always found ways to serve her community. Even during her years as a shop assistant and later a coastal cleaner for the Department of Public Works, she made time for outreach by helping victims of violence at the SAPS trauma room in Elands Bay. Her unwavering dedication is a testament to the power of grassroots activism in transforming lives.
Reality check
Though rich in natural beauty, Elands Bay is home to a fishing community facing economic hardship. Once thriving, the local fishing industry has been battered by overfishing, declining fish stocks and stringent government quotas that limit the livelihood of small-scale fishers. As a result, many families live in abject poverty, with few employment opportunities beyond seasonal fishing. Without alternative industries, the cycle of deprivation continues. Many elderly residents live in isolation, while children grow up with limited access to necessities. Which is why a community-driven effort such as that of Turning Tides is often the glue holding struggling communities together.
In the midst of adversity, the power of compassion and altruism shines brightly in people such as Dorothy van Rooi and her team.
FAST FACTS
To relax I read
My sport is walking
Favourite West Coast destination is Elands Bay
I love eating pasta
My signature drink is Rooibos tea
I enjoy reading spiritual books
Best TV programme is Suidooster
For contributions to the Elands Bay elderly and sports gear for children, phone Dorothy (083 3303447) or Mario van Wyk (083 9776846).
