Forest Farm celebrates with a concert
BRYANSTON - Forest Farm Centre, a residential facility for adults with cerebral palsy, held a celebration concert in Bryanston.
Bulelwa Mahura, a social worker at the centre said, “The concert was a reminder that people with disabilities, particularly cerebral palsy in this case, may have severe limitations which hinder them from participating in normal family and community life, however, they are also human.”
She added that the residents also had capabilities and rights that needed to be respected. “They also need assistance from all of us to realise and express their potentialities,” she said.
Mahura said the concert was attended by residents, staff, and families and friends of the residents.
“The morning started off with an award ceremony where committee members, volunteers, and outstanding staff members were recognised for their valuable contributions to the centre,” she explained.
“They received certificates and awards to great cheers from the residents and staff members.”
Following the award ceremony, there was a lunch break where visitors could support the centre by purchasing boerewors rolls and cool drinks.
“During this time, the visitors could also view products and pictures on display depicting activities that had taken place at the centre,” added Mahura.
The theme for the concert was Summer Holidays. Mahura said the decorations included a backdrop, painted by a generous volunteer at no cost to the centre, which depicted sand, sea and the sun. There was also a plastic dolphin jumping out of the water and colourful cloths hanging on the sides of the stage. “The deco was fitting of the theme and made everyone get into the summer mood,” added Mahura.
She said the residents sang and danced their hearts out.
Members of the community are invited to get involved by volunteering their skills and talents. The centre could also use help with raising awareness about cerebral palsy and the work done by the centre, and fundraising.
Details: 011 789 3008; socialworker@forestfarmcentre.org
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