When a wood preservation company in South Africa decided to support a local créche 18 years ago, nobody imagined the relationship would be so enduring or that November would become the highlight of everyone's year.

There's something uniquely satisfying about a business that understands the wood industry's philosophy of long-term investment and steady growth and applies it to the community around them. Arxada, trading as Arch Wood Protection South Africa, has been doing precisely that by nurturing an early childhood development centre in the rural village of Bethania, about 10km from its head office in Port Shepstone on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal.

Miss Zodwa Majola, the headmistress of Vulingqondo Créche, says the company is an integral part of the créche's support system. They have assisted with everything from essential roof and door repairs and jungle-gym maintenance to a vegetable garden to magical graduation and Christmas parties that make the children's eyes light up.

Johannes (JJ) du Plessis, Arxada's Senior Regional Sales Manager, and Senior Finance Manager Ross Skorpen are regular visitors to the school. "It's always a joy to visit the school and meet the kids and see their bright and smiling faces," remarks JJ.

"The staff, children and their parents have a very good relationship with Arxada. If we need help with something, we can rely on them to be there for us", Zodwa explains.

Graduation celebrations

Each year builds toward two significant events that have become tradition. First comes the graduation ceremony, where the older children don graduation gowns and mortarboards before an audience of beaming parents and equally proud Arxada staff.

"It's a proper send-off for youngsters about to embark on their big-school adventure, and the formality of it all – the tiny academic regalia, the certificates, the applause – is a fitting start," says Ross.

Christmas fun

The following day, the focus is on fun and games as the Christmas celebration begins. JJ says Arxada staff spend weeks planning the event, selecting age-appropriate gifts, wrapping presents, preparing decorations, and organising activities, including balloons, face painting, and treats.

The real magic happens when Johan Nortje makes his entrance as Father Christmas, resplendent in full red regalia and white beard. "The shrieking and laughter that erupts when Santa appears is worth every hour of planning. It's the kind of authentic joy you can't manufacture and certainly can't buy", JJ explains.

Sustained commitment

The festive events are the visible peak of Arxada's involvement, but the real work happens in the quieter months. Over nearly two decades, they've helped transform the physical space into what the community now considers a foundation of local education and support.

It's also a reminder that supporting a community doesn't require grand gestures. Sometimes it's about showing up consistently, fixing what's broken, celebrating what matters, and being willing to don a Santa suit when the occasion calls for it.

“It is a rewarding experience and our staff believe it is a privilege to be a part of these remarkable children's lives," JJ concludes.