THE BUILDING EXCITING EDUCATION (BEE) TRUST STARTED The BEE Trust was started in 2010 by John van Reenen and his wife Bhawna to promote education and foster development through the upgrade and refurbishment of the built environment particularly of primary schools in marginalised urban areas such as Soweto, Vosloorus and Ivory Park in Johannesburg along with the Bergsig area in Cape Town and more recently in the Eastern Cape. BENEFICIARIES Are all previously disadvantaged children who through improved education and facilities can move forward to achieve and meet new aspirations and dreams in a safe, environment conducive to learning and one which inspires and develops other avenues of growth lacking at home. REFURBISHMENT At a school typically involves the Principal championing the project with a prioritisation of needs. In general, labor involves upgrading of tiling, ceilings, doors, windows, electricals, lighting …etc. both internal and external rendering the classrooms and grounds fully operational with regular follow-ups and communication on work carried out. In most cases a sense of pride and ownership that develops as a result of the renovation has warranted less maintenance. SCHOOLS Johannesburg - Mthimkulu, Polokekong, Khotso, Nagheng Primary; Ivory Park Secondary Capte Town - Uitsig, Nebo, Vorentoe, Northway Primary; Florida High Eastern Cape - Baleni Secondary (affiliated with The Igqangi Project)
CURRENT FUNDING The BEE Trust is currently funded 85% by John and Bhawna with 15% from the VR Steel Group. DONOR TAX DEDUCTIONS As the Trust is an approved Public Benefit Organisation in terms of the Income Tax Act, any taxpayer, individual, company or business owner wishing to donate to the Trust is permitted a tax deduction on presentation of a compulsory Donation Certificate issued by The BEE Trust. ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT Green Origins is an entrepreneurial initiative of The BEE Trust, which is 100% Broad Based Black Economic Empowered BBBEE, thus purchases particularly those made on a COD basis at Green Origins, earn enterprise development and supplier points on the BEE Scorecard. SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Supporting the BEE Trust and Green Origins similarly secures socio-economic development points.