04/11/2025
At Friends Day Centre, we believe that every learner deserves to thrive in an environment that supports their dignity, well-being, and potential. Many of our learners face severe to profound physical and/or intellectual disabilities, and the spaces in which they learn, receive therapy, and interact with others play a direct role in their development. Over time, the Centre’s facilities have naturally worn, with faded paint, outdated infrastructure, and limited accessibility, which can impact the learners’ experience and the morale of staff and caregivers.
To address this, the Building Upliftment Project was born. A parent and management led initiative designed to transform the Centre into a welcoming, modern, and functional space. The project focuses on renovating classrooms, therapy rooms, and communal areas, repairing and repainting worn surfaces, and prioritizing accessibility throughout the Centre. Each improvement is carefully planned to create spaces that inspire joy, comfort, and pride for learners, staff, and families alike.
We are thrilled to announce that a private foundation, after visiting the Centre, has generously donated R800,000 towards the project, doubling their initial pledge of R400,000. The funds have already been received and will make a significant contribution to the planned renovations.
Phase 1 of the project focuses on upgrading public areas, including entrances, hallways, bathrooms, and shared learner spaces, ensuring they are safe, accessible, and visually welcoming. Phase 2 will extend these improvements to classrooms, therapy rooms, and offices, introducing new flooring, lighting, storage, and sensory spaces that enhance daily learning and therapy experiences.
The impact of these upgrades will be both immediate and long-lasting. Learners will benefit from safer, more stimulating environments that encourage engagement, independence, and confidence. Staff and caregivers will feel renewed pride and motivation as they work in spaces that reflect the Centre’s values. Families will gain reassurance knowing their children are cared for in professional, safe, and nurturing surroundings.
While Phase 1 has received significant support, additional donations are still needed to realize the full vision of the project. Every contribution, whether financial, material, or time brings us closer to creating a Centre that truly supports the potential of every learner.
Parents and community members are warmly invited to participate in the project. Opportunities include fundraising, volunteering during painting and mural days, contributing skills or materials, or simply sharing the project with your networks. Together, we can ensure that Friends Day Centre continues to be a place where learners with severe disabilities are seen, heard, and valued, and where the community can take pride in supporting inclusive, life-changing education and therapy.
Let’s uplift our Centre, uplift our learners, and create spaces filled with hope, dignity, and possibility.
