“Kenton Cares” is more than just a slogan, it’s our way of being

Under the banner of “Kenton Cares”, the town and its residents come together to support one another and the environment through various charitable initiatives and volunteer projects. Giving back is a big part of the local culture – many locals and even visitors get involved in these uplifting efforts.

If you’re moved by any of the causes below, there are easy ways to get involved by going onto their websites or visiting the Tourism Information Centre.

A non-profit trust in partnership with the Kariega Game Reserve, which aspires to protect the wilderness by creating and implementing sustainable, replicable, and scalable project models to protect biodiversity and endangered species, promote habitat and wildlife conservation, and support community upliftment.

A local non-profit that provides practical support to those in need in Kenton and surrounding areas. Run by enthusiastic volunteers, they tackle everything from healthcare support (organising first aid training and counselling services) to running soup kitchens and holiday food drives. Their motto is “spreading kindness one helping hand at a time” and they truly live up to it. Their fundraisers, which include community auctions and charity fun runs, are a great way to mingle with locals for a good cause.

A charming second-hand store in town, with all proceeds donated to Coastal Kindness. It’s staffed by volunteers and stocked with clothing, books, and household items donated by the community. Bargain hunters can find anything from a barely worn summer dress to a vintage surfing magazine. And if you have travel clothes you no longer need, donating them before you leave helps keep the cycle of giving going.

Child welfare and youth programmes

Kenton is a family-oriented community, and ensuring the well-being of children is a priority. The Kenton & Boesmans Child Welfare branch works to support vulnerable children and families, providing everything from school uniforms and supplies for those who can’t afford them, to counselling and safe after-school activities.

A highlight of the year, the Seagull Regatta is a festive boat race on the Kariega River that’s been a beloved tradition for years. The event kicks off with a thrilling fly-by of the local 1920s Tiger Moth, followed by the release of doves and the sound of bagpipes. Spectators cheer as entrants, dressed in celebration, race their classic boats with seagull motors. The festivities continue late into the evening, with an auction that raises crucial funds for local causes including schools, senior homes, NSRI, survival swimming, literacy, animal welfare, and more.

Kenton is a family-oriented community, and ensuring the well-being of children is a priority. The Kenton & Boesmans Child Welfare branch works to support vulnerable children and families, providing everything from school uniforms and supplies for those who can’t afford them, to counselling and safe after-school activities.

Part of Rotary International, it is dedicated to enhancing the Kenton community through various service and fundraising initiatives. Their projects span environmental conservation, youth services, and health care, significantly impacting residents.​ Current projects include Kenton Sees (provision of eye care), Fish and Chips Babies (assistance for new parents, typically in their teens), Snare Eradication Project (dismantling of snares to protect wildlife), Siya Soup (exchanging meals for recyclable materials), End Polio Now (eradication of polio initiative), NSRI fundraising, and the RYLA Leadership Summit for youth development.

Environmental and animal welfare

The Kenton Domestic Animal Care and Eku Paws initiatives work to provide veterinary care for pets in the community and assist with stray animal rescues. On the wild side, there are also groups focusing on wildlife rescue (for instance, aiding injured birds or marine animals that wash up).

South Africa’s largest rhino run takes place on the Sunday closest to World Rhino Day, 22 September, in Kenton. Funds raised are in aid of our local rhino charity of choice, Chipembere Rhino Foundation

Dedicated to preserving and enhancing the estuarine environments of Kenton-on-Sea and Boesmansriviermond. Their projects focus on sustainable management of the estuaries, ensuring these vital natural resources are protected for future generations. Key initiatives include sand dune management, invasive alien plant removal, estuary pollution prevention, and infrastructure improvements.

An energetic and committed group of young men working together to make a positive difference in the Kenton-on-Sea and Alexandria communities. As part of the international Round Table movement, they focus on fellowship and service, supporting local upliftment through fundraising initiatives, volunteering, and community partnerships.

A heartwarming initiative that combines community care with environmental sustainability. In partnership with St. David’s Anglican Church and the Rotary Club of Kenton-on-Sea, this monthly programme prepares around 6,000 meals, combating hunger and promoting recycling by exchanging meals for recyclable materials.

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