A UDRS organiser addressing the community in Kya Sand
Who we are

PEOPLE, NOT
PROJECTS

United Dream Rivers Services is a South African non-profit founded by neighbours of Kya Sand — ordinary people who chose to show up for the most marginalized families, and keep showing up.

WHO WE ARE

UDRS NPC is a grassroots initiative focused on practical, on-the-ground support for vulnerable families in Johannesburg's informal settlements. We are not a political movement—we are a community-driven organization committed to restoring dignity and building hope.

Our work is rooted in the belief that every person deserves access to basic necessities, safe shelter, and the opportunity to build a stable future. We partner with communities, not impose on them.

UDRS team working with City of Joburg emergency services

Registered NPC

South Africa

OUR MISSION

To provide practical humanitarian aid and advocate for dignified living conditions, focusing on child-headed families, the elderly, people with disabilities, and victims of fires in informal settlements.

OUR VISION

A South Africa where every individual has access to basic necessities, safe shelter, and the opportunity to build a stable future—regardless of where they were born.

OUR STORY

UDRS was born from a direct observation of need in communities like Kya Sand. We saw families struggling to recover from fires, children attending school without uniforms, and elders living without support.

2019

The Beginning

Started with small acts of kindness—distributing food parcels to families in Kya Sand.

2020

Formal Registration

Registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC) to expand our reach and accountability.

2021

Education Program

Launched our school uniform and stationery support program for 50+ children.

2023

Growing Impact

Expanded fire relief responses and community workshops across multiple settlements.

OUR COMMITMENT TO CREDIBILITY

Transparency

We publish annual reports and financial statements for public review.

Accountability

Registered NPC with full compliance to South African regulations.

Community-Led

Our programs are designed with input from the communities we serve.

Realistic Goals

We under-promise and over-deliver. No unverifiable claims.

Our Approach

We believe in transparency and realistic goals. While we advocate for the right to safe, dignified housing, our work focuses on the immediate needs of communities and partnering with established stakeholders to find long-term solutions. We do not make promises we cannot keep.

OUR TEAM

Our team is made up of dedicated volunteers and staff who are passionate about making a difference in their communities.

Community Volunteers

The Heart of UDRS

Local residents who dedicate their time to help their neighbors in need.

Program Coordinators

Operations & Planning

Experienced professionals who ensure our programs run smoothly.

Advisory Board

Governance & Strategy

Community leaders and experts who guide our mission and vision.