Joburg Junior Council visits Thembalami Centre
“It was an enriching experience, filled with laughter and meaningful connections.”
Members of the Johannesburg Junior Council’s sports and recreation committee recently visited Thembalami Care Centre and Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA).
Visiting the facilities left council committee members feeling inspired by the residents’ stories and wisdom.
With the two age groups coming together, Thembalami Care Centre’s deputy manager Elize Raath explained that intergenerational connections often spark joy and a renewed sense of purpose for both age groups.
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“Youthful vitality can be infectious, bringing smiles and a sense of lightness to the older generation, while the stories and insights shared by seniors can offer invaluable perspectives and a deeper understanding of life’s journey for the young,” said Raath.
According to committee chairperson Ben Gorton, the goal was to host a small event where the focus was on giving our time.
“As a committee, we thought a visit to a care centre for older persons was a perfect fit,” he said.
“We spent a wonderful morning playing Bingo and sharing tea with the residents.
“It was an enriching experience, filled with laughter and meaningful connections,” Ben added.
Thembalami resident Heather Abrams said she and others loved the time they spent with the junior councillors.
Five games of Bingo were played, with a break for tea and treats after the first three games.
“We had to teach them how to play, which was all part of the fun.
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“It was great mixing with those lovely, intelligent young people,” said Heather.
Babalwa Gadala, one of the care centre’s recreation assistants, said the residents who won a game beamed with joy at receiving thoughtful prizes of toiletries.
“Our residents’ hearts were warmed and they were reminded that their generation is cherished,” she said.
