Join Sunrise Special Care Centre to volunteer

Sunrise Special Care Centre in Elfindale is looking for dedicated assistants, volunteers, and board members to assume key roles in coordinating services for children with special needs.

A key responsibility involves leading the centre’s fund-raising initiatives, which include a surf walk to raise awareness for children with special needs, as well as an end-of-year dance.

Hein Kruger, principal of the centre said: “We are currently seeking an individual who can assist with, or ideally take over, the planning and execution of these events.”

Sunrise Special Care was established in May 1988 by a group of parents of profoundly intellectually disabled children from the greater Retreat area, who came together to address a critical and unmet need in their community.

Mr Kruger said: “They secured a space at St Gerard’s Catholic Church in Parkwood, and in January 1989, the centre opened its doors to just seven children. That number soon grew to 16 attending daily and is now licensed for 30 children.” 

The centre is a privately-run institution that operates with vital support from the Department of Health and the Department of Social Development. The Department of Education, through the Children with Severe to Profound Intellectual Disability (CSPID) teams, provides structured programmes as well as the equipment and materials required to facilitate these services.

Mr Kruger said: “Each school term, we run comprehensive programmes tailored to the needs of our learners. These include a range of themes and topics designed to engage all functioning groups, with appropriate accommodations for learners with sensory, physical, and communication challenges.”

Mr Kruger said, they have proudly served a diverse group of learners ranging in age from 4 to 36 years.

"Our aim is to foster a nurturing environment where all learners receive the love, care, and therapy they need to grow in confidence and independence.”

The centre has 5 caregivers, 1 assistant caregiver and 1 volunteer.

Mr Kruger said the centre was in urgent need of additional volunteers to help relieve its caregivers during classes and breaks.

"Volunteer support is essential to maintaining the high level of care and attention each learner requires," he said.

They serve the communities from Plumstead, Wynberg, Parkwood, Grassy Park, Lavender Hill, Capricorn, Steenberg, and Retreat

They call on the community for food donations. 

“While we do not have a dedicated feeding scheme, any food donations received are distributed to children and their families in need," he said.

They are also seeking individuals to join their management board.

“We need people who can offer their skills, knowledge, and time to help steer the centre forward and ensure sustainability and growth.”

To join thecentre to volunteer or assist, call 060 265 2865 or email sunrisecare1988@gmail.com