The Open Circle

18/12/2025

In September 2023, our Occupational Therapist started the Therapy Dog journey with Riley. Ever since then, Riley has been quietly showing up, sitting beside anxious hands, offering calm where there was once overwhelm, and bringing smiles that didn’t need words. Somewhere along the way, she became part of our residents’ world.

After months of training and two exams, Riley has now officially graduated as our in-house therapy dog. But to us, she’s been a therapist long before the title.

The impact she’s already made. The comfort, the trust, the gentle regulation is something you can feel when she walks into a room.

So proud of you, Riley 🌻🐾
Thank you for loving our residents the way you do.

09/12/2025

Throwback to our outing to Maidens Cove earlier in November 🌊☀️⛱️🐚

08/12/2025

Once we said goodbye to our visitors and our residents had a well-deserved nap, we kept the fun going with our first ever Pajama Party! 🎉🧸✨

Everyone arrived dressed to impress in their favourite sleepwear, and yes, the staff too! 😉 We kicked off the evening with a special homemade pizza dinner, which was a hit all around. 🍕💛

After dinner, we moved the tables aside and turned the dining room into our very own dance floor. The energy was incredible as everyone showed off their best dance moves! 💃🕺

Once the dancing wrapped up, we did a quick round of evening medication and settled in for a cozy Christmas movie. 🎄🎬 With the excitement of the day behind us, it wasn’t long before most of the room drifted off to sleep, the perfect ending to a full, fun-filled day.

08/12/2025

On the 6th of December, we had the pleasure of hosting The Jason Foundation and its members for a fun-filled day at The Open Circle. The day kicked off with so much excitement, joy, and connection. It was beautiful to see how strong this partnership has become, proof that we are truly stronger together. 💚

We were joined by Oude Molen Stables and TOP Dogs - Therapy Dogs, who showcased the incredible therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions. The smiles, confidence, and bravery we witnessed were absolutely priceless. 🐴🐾

And of course… what’s a fun day without food?! 😄
Amid all the animal fun, the smell of a braai filled the air and added even more warmth to the day. We ended the afternoon with dancing, karaoke, and lots of hugs, the perfect way to wrap up a wholesome, joy-filled event. 🎤💃🕺

A huge thank you to Helen Major, founder of Jason Foundation, for making this relationship possible and for her continued commitment to meaningful community partnerships.

For persons with intellectual disabilities and their guardians, a strong community of support is essential. Days like these remind us how true inclusion happens, through connection, shared experiences, and partnerships that create real opportunities for belonging. This is how we build a community where everyone is valued and able to thrive. 💛

02/12/2025

02/12/2025

02/12/2025

Green for inclusion! 💚

Our staff showing their support this Disability Rights Awareness Month, standing for a world where every person feels included, no exceptions.

02/12/2025

02/12/2025