Living Link receives donation of over R500 000 and helps the disabled
PARKHURST – The Living Link partnered with Engen to provide workplace training for intellectually disabled youths.
Ten intellectually disabled students have received the opportunity to transform their lives and build a better future.
In a partnership with the non-profit organisation, The Living Link and Engen, these students have commenced a year-long Adult Integration Programme aimed at integrating them into society, both in the workplace and their communities.
Engen donated R564 000 at an official ceremony held at The Living Link Centre in Parkhurst on 13 June.
The Living Link’s managing director, Stanley Bawden said they will also make every effort to place the graduates in the workplace once they have completed their training in November. “We strive to place our graduates in ordinary working environments, doing regular work and where salaries and benefits are real and reflect their work performance.”
Engen’s corporate social investment manager, Mntu Nduvane said that because disability affects a comparatively small percentage of the population, it remains traditionally underfunded. “As we enter Youth Month, Engen is mindful that this is a key area of need which is why we have moved to assist young adults living with disabilities and their families.”
The Adult Integration Programme focuses on employment orientation, personal empowerment, lifestyle management and community survival. It also includes students doing job sampling. The Living Link also provides ongoing job coaching and training to both employer and employee.
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“Everyone in our country has a role to play in enhancing the lives of all citizens, especially those who are marginalised through disability. Our partnership with Engen will go a long way in helping to upskill and ultimately aid these disabled young adults to find employment and become contributing members of society,” said Bawden.
“By working together with the Living Link we hope to forge a future that is inclusive of all people where the marginalised have the opportunity to work and where conditions are created for dreams to be achieved and a brighter future for all South Africans to be manifested,” said Nduvane.
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