Nearly three decades of service to Rand Aid

When businessman Patrick Abrahams was asked by a colleague to make himself available as a board member of non-profit organisation Rand Aid Association (RAA), he had little idea that he was about to embark on a 28-year journey.

Then a man of 44, Abrahams knew little about the association. Soon, however, he was immersed in helping the organisation deliver on its mission of caring for vulnerable senior citizens. “I have seen Rand Aid evolve from an organisation that was basically insolvent into the enormous, well-run entity that it is today,” he said.

Founded in 1903, the association now manages four retirement villages, two frail care centres, a treatment centre for people with substance abuse problems and a home for the deaf.

Rand Aid has a strong welfare focus and provides subsidised accommodation, care and treatment to more than 500 people on a daily basis at its Thembalami Care Centre, Tarentaal Village and Wedge Gardens Treatment Centre.

“I am proud of the small part I played in this phenomenal journey,” said Abrahams, adding that all the milestones the organisation has reached is thanks to its strong board and management team, as well as its partnerships with its residents.

After joining the Rand Aid board of management in 1988, Abrahams was made honorary life president in 2011 at the 106th Annual General Meeting. He was chairman of the board for 13 years, from December 1998 until July 2011, when he handed over the reins to John Robinson.

Also read: Rand Aid rewards loyal employees

On 24 August , he attended his last board meeting and enjoyed a farewell with his peers. On 7 September, Abrahams and his wife will leave to start a new chapter of their life in England.

“I have gained much gratification and satisfaction from being able to assist people who, through no fault of their own, are in a less fortunate position.” Unfortunately, said Abrahams, the culture of active citizenship is not as strong as it once was. “People want to be rewarded for their time and effort,” he added.

The Bryanston resident has been involved in the financial arena all of his life, from commercial banking to discount houses, merchant banking, private equity and finally as director of Brait Merchant Bank. Born in Kimberley, Patrick was raised in Zimbabwe and settled in Johannesburg in 1979.

Semi-retired, he still has a number of business interests.

Add us on Whatsapp for the latest news by adding 079 4395 345 to your contact list and just send your name to us so we can save your number. Click here to find out more about our Whatsapp policy.