About 31 Club

The 31 Club is a registered non-profit fund raising organisation (NPO 002-164) which was formed in 1962 by a group of women under the chairmanship of Norma Rattray. The principal aim of the Club is to raise funds for charities in Kwa-Zulu Natal. As the group consisted of 31 volunteers, the club was named accordingly, and the membership always remains at no more than 31. The 31 Club members work entirely on a voluntary capacity.

The 31 Club is a very successful organisation with approximately 98 percent of funds raised being distributed to selected and monitored charities.

There are over 100 loyal 'Sleeping Members' who assist with the various Functions, offering their time and expertise in the organisation and implementation of these fundraising events.

All catering and decor is done by the members of the Club, and each Function sees a new and amazing theme come to life with great attention to detail and presentation.

Where the money goes

The 31 Club supports a wide range of charities in and around Durban and will consider any requests for funds from a valid group or organisation. The youth, the elderly and dying, the physically challenged, animals and the environment are all supported by the Club's fund raising activities. Last year 40 charities shared R450,000. At a time when many non-governmental organisations are receiving less and less from the government and overseas donors, this group of just 31 hard-working women is really making a difference to the lives of many in need.

Sponsors

Our sponsors are our lifeline and we are greatly indebted to the many companies who believe in what we are doing and support us generously. The bottom line is that the more sponsorship we secure, the more funds we are able to give away to our charities. Our expenses amount to approximately 2% of all income received, leaving 98% to be distributed to Charity.

We have loyal sponsors who assist us in achieving our goals, these sponsors are mentioned at our functions and on all promotional material. The 31 Club would welcome new sponsorship to enable us to increase our fund raising efforts.

We are extremely grateful to DAP BARGING BV from the Netherlands for sponsorship of Euro 5000 in 2009 and a further donation of Euro 3500 in the current financial year. This generous donation has enabled us to fulfill so many more of our Charities wish lists.

We are also grateful for longstanding and ongoing sponsorship from :

Deloitte for auditing our books every year
Durban Country Club who host our meetings
Spar Group for sponsoring of food

Finance and Appeals

• The organisation relies on the generous support of businesses and private individuals to help us uplift the KwaZulu-Natal Community.
• The organisations commitments are multi-racial and inter-denominational.
• Distribution of funds normally occurs at the financial year end - 31st March.
• Appeals from charities registered in accordance with the Non-profit Organisations Act and related organisations will only be considered if submitted in writing, accompanied by current financial statements and a chairperson's report.
• An NPO / welfare or fund-raising number must be provided together with a letter of appeal for a SPECIFIC PROJECT before an appeal will be considered by the Members.
• The allocation of funds EXCLUDES running costs.
• Club Members visit the organisations before and after the allocation of funds.
• Our accounts are audited yearly by Deloitte.