Upcycle and REEA Foundation work exchange program

The Great Exchange

At the heart of Johannesburg, nestled within quiet streets and vibrant community spirit, lies the REEA Foundation—a haven for individuals with epilepsy and neurological disorders. For 39 residents, this residential care facility is more than just a home; it is a place of safety, dignity, and unwavering support. But beyond care and comfort, REEA has always believed in something extraordinary: the power of purpose.

Living with a neurological disorder can feel isolated. The world often moves fast, leaving little room for those whose journeys take a slower, more deliberate path. Yet, at REEA, the focus has never been on limitations but on possibilities—how life can still be meaningful, joyful, and impactful.

At Upcycle, our mission extends beyond transforming discarded materials into beautiful, functional items. We are equally committed to creating opportunities for those who need them most. One of our latest initiatives exemplifies this commitment: a partnership with the REEA Foundation, aimed at providing occupational therapy to disabled learners while furthering our upcycling efforts.

We receive many branded products donated by corporations. However, due to our policy of not selling branded items, these products must first be debranded. This is a meticulous process where all traces of the original corporate branding are removed. The importance of this step cannot be overstated—it ensures that companies can confidently donate their outdated or excess branded materials, knowing that their logos and designs won’t end up in unauthorized hands. To this end, we issue a destruction certificate, confirming that these materials have been responsibly managed.

However, debranding is a labor-intensive process, and we found ourselves in need of extra hands to keep up with demand. In response to our advertisement for assistance, social worker Ellenor reached out and connected with Upcycle.

The collaboration began when Ellenor, a dedicated staff member at REEA, recognized the need for purposeful activities for the beneficiaries. Many of them spent their days inactive, often sitting idly in front of the television. Concerned about this lack of engagement, Ellenor sought to find meaningful tasks for the residents. She initiated a paper shredding project, where beneficiaries could sort papers, remove staples, quality check materials and more. While this brought structure and purpose to their days, Ellenor was still searching for more sustainable and fulfilling opportunities for the beneficiaries.

It was through this search that Ellenor connected with Astrid at Upcycle. Together, they aimed to develop additional upcycling projects that would cater to the individual needs, abilities, and interests of REEA’s beneficiaries, offering them a sense of purpose and accomplishment. The challenge lies in tailoring activities to suit each resident’s state of mind and capabilities, creating jobs that not only provide occupational therapy but also a sense of purpose. This collaboration between REEA and Upcycle continues to empower individuals by fostering creativity, hope, and inclusion. This was the start of a amazing synergy that you can follow here for more on this story and more