KNYSNA NEWS - Community members, families and local businesses are being invited to help bring a fresh burst of colour, care and creativity to the Vermont Centre during a special Mandela Day Makeover Weekend.

The initiative aims to revitalise the Centre's gardens, communal spaces and residents' rooms while bringing the Knysna community together in the spirit of service and compassion.

Volunteers are encouraged to lend a hand by planting, painting, repairing and beautifying the facility, while local businesses are invited to enter a fun and meaningful challenge by sponsoring and transforming residents' rooms in a creative makeover competition.

The Vermont Centre provides residential care for elderly members of the community who have spent their lives raising families, building homes and contributing to society. Organisers say the makeover weekend is an opportunity for Knysna residents to give something back.

Over the past 18 months, the Centre's board and management team have worked closely with the Department of Social Development to improve standards of care and create a safer, more supportive environment for residents and staff. Significant changes have been implemented across the facility, resulting in improved living conditions for residents and greater stability for employees.

Jamie Litt, Treasurer of the Vermont Centre Board, said the makeover weekend marks an important step in the Centre's ongoing renewal.

“The Vermont Centre has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 18 months, and we are incredibly proud of the progress that has been made,” said Litt. “Now we are inviting the wider community to become part of that journey. Whether you can give an hour of your time, donate materials or bring a team from your business, every contribution will help create a brighter, more welcoming environment for our residents and staff.”

Litt added that the event is also an opportunity for people to reconnect with the Centre and see firsthand the positive changes that have taken place.

“Our residents deserve dignity, comfort and joy in their later years. Mandela Day reminds us that even small acts of service can make a meaningful difference, and we hope the community will join us in making this weekend something truly special.”

The Vermont Centre Board, staff and residents are encouraging people of all ages to participate and help continue the Centre's story of renewal and growth.

For more information or to register as a volunteer, contact Erylene on 083 363 1947. 

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