Mandela Day: 67 minutes of service

Every year on 18 July (Mandela Day), people around the world celebrate Nelson Mandela’s legacy by giving back to their communities for 67 minutes – one minute for each year he spent fighting for justice.

Stuck for ideas on how to spend your 67 minutes with your kids? Start here.

1. Make cards for someone special
Grab some paper, markers, and stickers, and get creative! You and your children can make cheerful cards for elderly people in a care home, thank-you notes for teachers, or even fun messages for hospital patients.

2. Pick up litter at your favourite park
Put on some gloves, grab a rubbish bag, and clean up a local park or beach. It’s a great way to help the environment and make your community a cleaner, happier place. Plus, you might even spot some interesting bugs or birds – or find treasures while you’re at it!

3. Bake some treats for those in need
Love baking? Spend your 67 minutes making cupcakes, biscuits, or muffins with your kids and deliver them to a local shelter, fire station, or charity. Sharing something sweet can brighten up someone’s day!

4. Read stories to younger kids
If your little one is old enough, encourage them to read to their younger siblings or the younger kids at crèche. Choose fun books with exciting pictures, and practice making silly voices to bring the characters to life.

5. Donate clothes or toys
Go through your family’s wardrobes and toy boxes and find things you no longer use but that are still in good condition. Pack them up and donate them to children in need. You’ll be giving your old favourites a new home while making someone else happy!

6. Visit an animal shelter
A family of animal lovers? Spend your 67 minutes playing with, or helping to care for, rescue pets. You can walk dogs, cuddle kittens, or help clean up. Shelters are always grateful for extra hands (and extra love for the animals!).

7. Plant a tree or start a garden
Help the planet by planting a tree, flowers, or vegetables in your garden or a community space. It’s a great way to make the world greener and create something that will last for years to come.

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