On 11 February 2010, the country celebrated the 20th anniversary of the release of Nelson Mandela. In honour of this elder statesman, Aberdeen celebrated its own senior citizens by holding a lunch for our own over-70's.
The "Keep Them Busy" project is the brainchild of Department of Social Development Auxiliary Social Worker, Noxolo Stokwe, whose vision is to engage the people of Aberdeen in community-centred programmes aimed at active participation of all residents in all spheres of Aberdeen life.
The "Keep Them Busy" project is the brainchild of Department of Social Development Auxiliary Social Worker, Noxolo Stokwe, whose vision is to engage the people of Aberdeen in community-centred programmes aimed at active participation of all residents in all spheres of Aberdeen life.
To ensure the success of this project, Noxolo has enlisted the assistance of community members who have formed a 27 member committee to oversee projects and events. The committee members are responsible for fund-raising, event planning and co-ordination and ongoing project management.
The Celebrating the Elderly luncheon was the inaugural event of the project. The committee started the fundraising ball rolling by each contributing R50.00 to the coffers. Thereafter, local businesses were approached for monetary or other donations and local residents made individual contributions.
The luncheon was attended by over 150 elderly residents who were transported by taxi to the Library Hall, a service provided for free by Marlon de Jager. The guests were treated to tea and scones on arrival. Councillor Vuyisile Jacobs welcomed the guests and Beverley de Beer of SAPS addressed those present on the important role they played in assisting the Police with crime prevention and reporting.
Thereafter, the guests were treated to a delicious lunch, prepared and served by the committee members, interspersed with speeches by Noxolo Stokwe and Anuska Cornelius (Social Worker). A wonderful selection of music by DJ, Deon Ruiters, saw both the guests and the committee members taking to the floor a little dancing and singing.
Thereafter, the guests were treated to a delicious lunch, prepared and served by the committee members, interspersed with speeches by Noxolo Stokwe and Anuska Cornelius (Social Worker). A wonderful selection of music by DJ, Deon Ruiters, saw both the guests and the committee members taking to the floor a little dancing and singing.
The Committee would like to thank the business owners in Aberdeen for their incredible support, Clive Kombani (Town Manager - Camdeboo Municipality) for his generous assistance, the Aberdeen Caterers for the use of their equipment, Mr Johan Minnaar, Principal of Aberdeen Primary School for the additional tables and all those who gave of their time to make this a day to remember for the senior citizens of Aberdeen.
Article By: Samantha Jankovich
