The Alberton Service Centre closed off the year with a warm and festive Year End Celebration on December 2, bringing together more than 80 elderly community members for a day filled with food, music, laughter and heartfelt moments.

Originally planned for 60 guests, the turnout surpassed expectations and showed just how much the centre’s elderly residents value moments of connection and community.

The event featured delicious meals, refreshments and a special performance by local artist Rudi van Niekerk, who filled the hall with Christmas songs that had many attendees singing along and even dancing.

@albertonrecordThe Alberton Service Centre closed off the year with a warm and festive Year End Celebration on December 2, bringing together more than 80 elderly community members for a day filled with food, music, laughter and heartfelt moments. Originally planned for 60 guests, the turnout surpassed expectations and showed just how much the centre’s elderly residents value moments of connection and community. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za

♬ original sound – Alberton Record

Power outage challenge turned into teamwork win

According to Telana de Winnaar, who coordinated the event, the day started with an unexpected obstacle.

“When I arrived at the office, the power was off. That meant we could not cook our meat as planned,” she said.
With quick thinking and community support, the challenge was resolved.

“Thanks to the help of Donovan Steenkamp, who allowed us to use his kitchen, we managed to get everything prepared in time. Once that hurdle was overcome, everything else ran smoothly.”

The food was a highlight for many, especially the watermelon salad with feta and mint, which Winnaar said was a firm favourite.

A lively and joyful atmosphere

Winnaar described the atmosphere as lively, joyful and full of positive energy.

The ladies especially enjoyed themselves. Some even got up to dance together, which brought a festive feeling to the celebration.

“The feedback from the club members was overwhelmingly positive. They enjoyed the food, the music and simply being together,” she said.

A standout moment for Winnaar was watching how the elderly in the community came alive during the celebration.

“Seeing them laugh, dance and enjoy each other’s company was very heart-warming,” she said.

Pastor Ruan bids farewell to the committee

The celebration also included an announcement about Pastor Ruan Gloy, the committee chairperson, who will be leaving the centre as he moves to serve in another district.

He will, however, continue working in the Alberton area.

Hendrik de Winaar, a committee member, thanked Pastor Ruan for his dedication.

“We really appreciate the work and efforts of this committee in running the centre.

@albertonrecordHendrik de Winaar, a committee member, thanked Pastor Ruan for his dedication. “We really appreciate the work and efforts of this committee in running the centre. “It is not only the quarterly meetings, especially for Pastor Ruan. He is very involved in the service centre. For those who come here often, you know he is not only a chairperson but also a local mechanic. Ruan, we are very thankful for the work you have done in the last year,” said Adam. Read full story on albertonrecord.co.za♬ original sound – Alberton Record

“It is not only the quarterly meetings, especially for Pastor Ruan. He is very involved in the service centre. For those who come here often, you know he is not only a chairperson but also a local mechanic. Ruan, we are very thankful for the work you have done in the last year,” said Adam.

Building connection and community

Winnaar said the main goal of the Year-End Celebration was to provide a joyful and meaningful experience where residents could feel valued and appreciated.

“This goal was achieved. Their smiles and feedback confirmed that the event uplifted their spirits,” she said.
She added that events like this are essential for the well-being of the elderly.

“It brings people together and creates a sense of belonging. Many of our elderly residents look forward to these moments. It gives emotional upliftment and reminds them that the community cares,” she said.

Winnaar expressed her appreciation to those who contributed to the celebration’s success.

She thanked Rudi van Niekerk for the live music, Suzan Santo for the beautiful hall decorations and Gloy for sharing an inspiring worship message.

She also thanked the Alberton Service Centre staff and residents for their teamwork and willingness to assist.