KAROO NEWS - Vuyani Safe Haven held its AGM on 13 September where vice-chairperson Ampie Jordaan emphasised the organisation's commitment to caring for the community's children, in accordance with Biblical teachings.
He opened the meeting with a prayer, dedicating it to the cause of Vuyani Safe Haven, a home for children in need.
All the important formalities on the agenda were efficiently concluded and the treasurer, Paul Merifield, asked the meeting to approve the annual financial statements.
It was sobering to realise the expense of creating a home away from home for the 36 vulnerable children placed at Vuyani by court order after severe neglect and/or abuse. Vuyani needs the support of the community, local and overseas businesses and the Department of Social Development to fulfil their mandate.
Ethne Hufkie, Vuyani's secretary, introduced the six board members who agreed to continue serving for another year: Elaine Stanley, Paul Merifield, Ethne Hufkie, Ampie Jordaan, Peter Whitlock and Harold Steven-Jennings.
The AGM also provided an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and challenges of the past year. Vuyani chairperson Elaine Stanley commended the dedicated staff for their unwavering support of the vulnerable children it their care.
Manager Hildegarde Brummer highlighted the organisation's remarkably low staff turnover and celebrated the long-service awards received by several staff members. Joyleen Donley, a dedicated caregiver, received recognition for her ten years of service, while Vuyani social worker Chandre Rhoode, and Child and Youth Care Worker Portia Venter, were acknowledged for their five years of service. Additionally, the board expressed appreciation to Wilson Krismis, the long-serving driver and factotum, as he embarked on early retirement due to health reasons.
Marelize Venter, an occupational therapist in private practice in Graaff-Reinet, has been providing crucial support to many of Vuyani's children on a weekly basis to address their developmental challenges. Venter delivered a talk about "The value and importance of therapeutic services for children in need of care and protection." She explained the benefit of using occupational therapy equipment through the medium of play when addressing developmental hurdles with children.
Success story
Venter cited the progress of two Vuyani children who, through their dedicated weekly therapy sessions, successfully bridged their developmental gaps over the course of a year or more. Where they had been approximately three years behind their peers, they managed to catch up. One of the boys was placed in foster care, while the other is prepared to advance to Grade 1 next year and is also ready for foster care placement.
This success story was the result of collaboration among various disciplines, including occupational and speech therapists, psychologists conducting assessments, special tutors and preschool teachers. Vuyani's staff received training and ongoing support to bolster these improvements, including night-time and weekend efforts.
Everyone at Vuyani expressed deep gratitude to the Rupert Foundation for its invaluable funding, which supports essential developmental services not provided by the Department of Education.
All attendees were thanked for their contributions in making the AGM a meaningful and productive event, with a special appreciation extended to the Freedom Church for its generous hospitality.
To support Vuyani's mission, donations can be made via its website: www.vuyanisafehaven.co.za/make-a-donation/.
Hildegarde Brummer, Joyleen Donley and Elaine Stanley with Joyleen’s five-year award.
Hildegarde Brummer (left) and occupational therapist Marelize Venter.
Hildegarde Brummer, Chandre Rhoode and Elaine Stanley with Chandre’s five-year award.
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