Footsteps for Fynbos
Grootbos Foundation is proud to be an official charity partner of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, one of only five local charities selected to partner with the marathon in 2026.
Sports Development Programme: Boys soccer team practice at Spaces for All Gansbaai
For Grootbos Foundation, this partnership is a natural fit. It is a powerful opportunity to raise vital funds for our conservation and community programmes, and also a platform to champion the extraordinary natural landscapes that surround Cape Town and define our work. Cape Town and the Western Cape is home to one of the most unique landscapes in the world; 70% of the plants found here are found nowhere else on Earth. Grootbos Foundation is committed to the protection of this unique and precious landscape. We have a 23 year legacy of conservation and community upliftment. Over 300 young people have graduated from our skills college since 2003, each year approximately 3'000 children are supported through our Sports Development programme and our conservation team have supported the protection of over 26'000ha of land through the Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy, all while supporting youth to find work in sustainable, green careers.
As the Cape Town Marathon moves closer to becoming the first Abbott World Marathon Major on African soil, it offers a unique moment to connect runners from around the world with fynbos and the globally significant Cape Floral Kingdom. We believe that as runners train, race, and recover in the Mother City, they should have the opportunity to truly experience, understand, and appreciate the natural heritage they are running through.
Overberg sandstone fynbos
Conservation research at Grootbos Foundation contributes to our understanding of fynbos and the Cape Floral Kingdom. Left to right, Paula Strauss and Rebecca Dames.
Major sporting events such as the Cape Town Marathon present a unique opportunity for South Africans to connect, share experiences, and foster a sense of local pride, while simultaneously welcoming visitors to experience the very best that Cape Town has to offer. Importantly, charity partnerships ensure that the impact of the marathon extends far beyond a single weekend and the six and a half hours of running.
By supporting the work of non-profit organisations, these partnerships contribute to the protection of South Africa’s natural environments and the upliftment of its most vulnerable communities, leaving a meaningful and lasting legacy.
Each Grootbos Foundation fundraiser has committed to raising $2,000, and we are proud to share that our 10 charity runners have already raised $20’208.
Nature immersion programmes for youth lay the groundwork for eco-responsible adults
Bulelani in the Green Futures Nursery at Grootbos Foundation
But don’t worry, if you don’t have the time, the stamina or the desire to challenge yourself to run a full marathon, you can still support Grootbos Foundation programmes in a meaningful way. While our runners continue to push themselves in training, you can contribute by making a donation through our website and help strengthen the opportunities we provide for children and young people in our community. Every contribution makes a difference and allows you to be part of the journey, without running the 42.2 km.
To support one of our current fundraisers, click here: https://www.givengain.com/campaign/cape-town-marathon-2026--footsteps-for-fynbos or make a direct donation to Grootbos Foundation here: https://grootbosfoundation.devman.co.za/DevMan/online/giving/
Green Futures College Hospitality Programme Class of 2025
