Registered Non-Profit and Public Benefit Organisation
Empowering Inclusion
Protecting and promoting the rights and interests of all persons with disabilities.
Registered Non-Profit and Public Benefit Organisation
Inclusive Excellence
Protecting, promoting, and celebrating the diverse capabilities of all individuals.
Welcome to Oudtshoorn Association for Persons with Disabilities (APD)
Welcome to Oudtshoorn Association for Persons with Disabilities (APD), a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities in Oudtshoorn and surrounding areas. Nestled in the heart of the Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. From its humble beginnings as a small farming community to its current status as a thriving tourist destination, Oudtshoorn has always been a place of growth and opportunity.
Since 1971, Oudtshoorn APD has been providing vital services to children and adults with severe and profound disabilities. Our organisation offers a range of therapeutic, social, and community development programmes, including a Day Care Centre for children and a Skills and Work Centre for youth and adults.
Join us in making a difference
At Oudtshoorn APD, we’re dedicated to creating a more inclusive and supportive community for persons with disabilities. We invite you to learn more about our services, get involved, and help us make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower persons with disabilities in Oudtshoorn and surrounding areas to achieve independence and inclusivity. We provide comprehensive support services which foster social development and the disintegration of barriers to create a more equitable society.
Our Vision
Oudtshoorn APD envisions an inclusive and equitable society where persons with disabilities enjoy equal opportunities, rights, and participation, empowering them to reach their full potential.
Our Core Values
Guided by our unwavering commitment to enhance the lives of persons with disabilities, Oudtshoorn APD is rooted in the following core values:
- Respect: We believe that every person deserves respect and dignity.
- Inclusion: We embrace diversity and recognise all individuals.
- Self-actualisation: We strive towards independence and equality of all people and undertake to build human capacity on every level of our organisation.
Support our Community
As a NGO, we rely on the generosity of our community to expand our services and provide essential support to adults and children with disabilities. Your financial contribution can make a significant difference in their lives. Contact us today to learn more about how your financial support can help.
We believe that communities are powerful catalysts for growth and learning. By sharing experiences, mentorship, and workshops, we can collaboratively empower individuals to reach their full potential.
Collaborating for Positive Change
We believe in the power of collaboration to create positive change. That’s why we partner with key stakeholders such as:
Business Arts South Africa (BASA)
Department of Health
Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture
Department of Social Development (DSD)
Presidential Employment Stimulus
- Western Cape APD
Together, we develop and implement awareness programmes that promote inclusivity and support for persons with disabilities in Oudtshoorn and surrounds. By joining our community efforts, you can be part of creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities.
Thank you to our collaborators and supporters! Your generosity and trust are invaluable in helping us create an inclusive society where individuals with disabilities can fully participate and integrate into our community.
Get Involved
Join us in our mission to empower individuals with disabilities and promote inclusivity in Oudtshoorn. Whether you’re an individual, organisation, or community group, here are the many ways that you can get involved:
Partner with us.
Volunteer your time.
Donate to our cause. Support our mission by donating today! Please view our donation register at our branch to see our current needs, and consider committing to ongoing support to help us sustain our vital services.
Attend our workshops and events.
Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
Our Services
At Oudtshoorn APD, we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to support individuals with disabilities in the communities of Oudtshoorn, Dysseldorp, De Rust, and surrounds.
These include developmental social work, education and training, job readiness and placement, and community-based initiatives, all aimed at promoting inclusivity, independence, and overall well-being. Our services include:
Developmental Social Work
Special Day Care Centre
Providing daily stimulation and education to children with disabilities aged 2-18.Therapeutic and Support Services
Our social workers offer individual and group therapy, support, and educational services to persons with disabilities and their families.Community Outreach and Awareness
We raise awareness about disability rights and issues through home visits, office interviews, group work, community outreach, profiling, radio interviews, and monthly door-to-door awareness campaigns.
Work and Employment
Workshops and Life Skills Programmes
Our two workshops provide daily life skills programmes for clients, focusing on income-generating projects like O-So-Eggy.- Production Team
Our team comprising individuals with disabilities work together to produce goods for our income-generating project.O-So-Eggy is our innovative income-generating project that showcases the creativity and skill of our production team. This unique initiative produces a stunning, edgy collection of earrings crafted from ostrich eggshells and adorned with trendy designs. These earrings are not only beautiful but also sustainable, making them a coveted fashion accessory.
By supporting O-So-Eggy, you are empowering individuals with disabilities and contributing to their economic independence. To place your order, or to support this initiative by some other means, please contact admin@apdoudtshoorn.co.za or 076 109 9212.
Peer Support Services
- Peer and Parent Support Programme
Our peer support team provides support services in the form of home visits, offering guidance and encouragement to individuals with disabilities and their families.
Awareness and Prevention Campaigns
At Oudtshoorn APD, we believe that awareness and education are key to promoting inclusivity, equality, and social justice for persons with disabilities. Our awareness and prevention campaigns aim to challenge stereotypes, promote understanding, and advocate for the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.
Advocating for Inclusion
We participate in national campaigns such as Casual Day, celebrated annually on the first Friday of September. This campaign raises awareness and promotes inclusion of persons with disabilities in our communities.Focussing on Capabilities
Our Disability Day initiatives highlight the capabilities and potential of persons with disabilities, challenging societal perceptions and stereotypes.Health Awareness
Throughout the year, we observe national health awareness days and months, focusing on specific disabilities and health conditions. Our awareness programmes provide valuable information, resources, and support to persons with disabilities, their families, and caregivers.- Media Interviews and Community Engagement
We engage with local, provincial, and national media to promote the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities, sharing stories, experiences, and expertise to raise awareness and challenge stigma
Join Our Efforts
By supporting our awareness and prevention campaigns, you can help create a more inclusive and equitable society for persons with disabilities. Together, we can make a difference! Contact us to discuss your involvement!
Success Stories
We’re proud to share the inspiring stories of our beneficiaries, who’ve overcome challenges and achieved remarkable success through our programmes.
Empowering Adults with Disabilities
Thanks to successful funding proposals, our production team has grown from 6 to 44 beneficiaries. These individuals with disabilities are now empowered to manufacture ostrich eggshell products, developing new skills and potentially unlocking entrepreneurship or open labour market opportunities. With a monthly stipend, their standard of living has improved, and they’ve gained economic independence and self-worth.
Enabling Independence through Skills Development
A beneficiary from our Dysselsdorp workshop successfully completed the Rachel Swart Fund wheelchair repair training. She’s now equipped to provide repair services to those in need, promoting independence and mobility.
Unlocking Potential in Children
Through our day care programme, children receive stimulation and support, leading to remarkable improvements in their capabilities. Eljada Kairos conducts yearly assessments, and those who show progress are enrolled in their programme. This partnership enables us to provide a comprehensive support system, helping children unlock their full potential.
At Oudtshoorn APD, we’re committed to empowering individuals with disabilities and promoting inclusivity. Join us in celebrating these success stories and supporting our mission to create a more equitable society.
Become a Valued Member
of Oudtshoorn APD
Membership
Invest in the future of Oudtshoorn APD and become a valued member of our community. Our membership programme is a vital way for individuals to support our organisation and demonstrate their commitment to our mission.
How Membership Works
For just R100 per month, you can sponsor a child at our Day Care Centre and contribute to the growth and development of our programmes and services. These services benefit persons with disabilities in our community, promoting inclusivity and support.
Benefits of Membership
By joining as a member, you’ll be part of a dedicated community that’s making a real difference in the lives of others. Your contribution will help us continue to provide essential services and support to those who need it most.
Join Us Today!
We invite you to join us and help shape a more inclusive and supportive future for all. To become a member, simply complete our membership form and start making a difference today! You can request a membership form via email, admin@apdoudtshoorn.co.za.
