The South African Guide-Dogs Association has announced the launch of its third annual 'Wear Your Shades Day' campaign, taking place nationwide on Friday, 17 October. This initiative celebrates World Sight Month by raising awareness about the importance of eye health and generating vital support for individuals with visual impairments.
'Wear Your Shades Day' is more than just a fundraiser — it's a movement of solidarity. By purchasing a R20 sticker and wearing sunglasses, individuals can help create a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, can experience freedom and independence, says the Association.
"Every year, our mission is to transform the lives of approximately 800 individuals through the provision of Assistance Dogs and long-cane training," says Pieter Van Niekerk, spokesperson for the SA Guide-Dogs Association. Van Niekerk, who is visually impaired and a proud Guide Dog owner himself. He adds, "'Wear Your Shades Day' is a fun and powerful way for the public to take part in making a tangible difference for people living with disabilities."
How to Get Involved
- Purchase a R20 sticker.
- Digital stickers can be purchased online via the SA Guide-Dogs Association website.
- Johannesburg or Cape Town offices can be contacted telephonically to order stickers. Stickers can be collected in person or delivered.
- Stickers are also available at participating retailers, including Pick n Pay (selected stores), SPAR (selected stores), Falco Milano, Big Blue, Pet World and BUCO Hardware.
- On 17 October, individuals are encouraged to wear their sunglasses and their stickers to show their support and raise awareness about visual impairment and optic health.
Globally, at least 2.2-billion people experience near or distance vision impairment. In at least 1-billion cases, this could have been prevented through measures such as regular eye care and wearing sunglasses to protect against harmful UV rays, says the Association.
Funds raised from 'Wear Your Shades Day' directly support the Association's programmes — including the breeding, raising and training of Assistance Dogs for the visually impaired, people with physical disabilities and children on the autism spectrum, as well as providing essential Orientation and Mobility services, adds the Association.
The Association extends heartfelt thanks to DSV for sponsoring the 2025 distribution of campaign materials. Their support is crucial to the campaign's reach and success, says the Association.
On 'Wear Your Shades Day', participants are encouraged to tag the South African Guide-Dogs Association on social media while wearing their shades and sticker and use the hashtag #shadesday for a chance to win exciting prizes, concludes the association.
For more information, visit www.guidedig.org.za. You can also follow The South African Guide-Dogs Association on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, Instagram, or on TikTok.
*Image courtesy of the contributor