Much needed funds were raised for Avril Elizabeth Home for the Mentally Handicapped during the organisation’s first golf day in over 10 years.

Celebrities such as Darren Kelfkens, best known for his role as Jo Smith on the soap opera, Egoli: Place of Gold, Heinrich du Preez, businessman and South African amateur golfer, and holder of 28 golf-related world records, including 15 Guinness World Records and musician and Pieter Rischmullerbetter known as Piet Pompies, from the band DJ Ossewa, were among the 48 golfers who supported the Home.

The golf day was held at Reading Country Club in Alberton, Johannesburg, on 19 September 2013.

“We could not have asked for a better bunch of golfers to kick-start our golf day,” said Kathy Jooste, Chief Executive Officer for Avril Elizabeth Home. “They were enthusiastic and really made it a day to remember. This will be the first of many golf days as it will become an annual event on our calendar.

“Every cent that was raised through this event goes toward a worthwhile cause.

“Our oldest resident is 79 years old and our youngest five. Throughout their stay, residents receive 24-hour high-quality care, monitoring, special education and stimulation and occupational, physical and psychological therapy.

“Our aim is to enable our residents to reach their full potential, whatever that may be. Each person is a unique individual and deserves the very best.

“We are very grateful to all who gave so generously of their time and money to help make this day the success it was and look forward to their participation at the next golf day.”

Avril Elizabeth Home has been in operation since 1970. The Home cares for people on a long-term as well as a short-term basis.

“We have some residents who have been with us for almost as long as we have been in existence. For most of the residents, young and old, this is their home forever.”

An overcast but warm day, golfers had an enjoyable time on the fairway before heading back to the country club for dinner and prize-giving.

Prizes ranged from umbrellas to food hampers and golfing paraphernalia to gift vouchers. Parents of residents also got into the “golf day mood” and donated food items, drinks and sweets for the raffle.

Avril Elizabeth Home is known for its quality care and cutting edge ideas. The Home currently houses 158 permanent residents and provides day care to 20. All residents and day care attendees are intellectually challenged, many with a physical disability.

To find out more about Avril Elizabeth Home, or how to donate, go to www.avril.org.za or contact +27 11 822 2233.