Funds were raised for the Avril Elizabeth Home for the mentally handicapped during the organisation’s first golf day in over 10 years.
Celebrities such as Darren Kelfkens (“Jo Smith” in the soap opera Egoli: A place of Gold) and businessman Heinrich du Preez were among the 48 golfers who supported the cause.
The Avril Elizabeth Home has been in operation since 1970 and is situated in Fishers’ Hill, Germiston.
It is known for its quality care; it currently houses 158 permanent residents and provides day care to 20.
All residents and day care attendees are intellectually challenged, many also have a physical disability.
“Our aim is to enable our residents to reach their full potential; each person is a unique individual and deserves the very best,” said the home’s chief executive officer, Kathy Jooste.
The golf day was held at the Reading Country Club, in Alberton, on September 19.
The golfers had an enjoyable time on the fairways, before heading back to the club for dinner and the prizegiving.
“We could have not asked for a better bunch of golfers to kick-start our golf day,” said Jooste.
“They were enthusiastic and made it a day to remember; this will be the first of many golf days, as it will become an annual event on our calendar.”
Prizes ranged from umbrellas and food hampers, to golfing paraphernalia and gift vouchers.
Parents of residents also got into the “golf day mood” and donated food items, drinks and sweets for the raffle.
Every cent that was raised through the event goes towards a worthwhile cause.
“We are very grateful to all who gave so generously of their time and money to help make this day the success it was, and look forward to their participation at the next golf day,” said Jooste.
For more information about the Avril Elizabeth Home, or how to donate, call 011 822-2233, or visit the website at www.avril.org.za.
