Klerksdorp Rekord, Klerksdorp - The Triest Training Centre for people with intellectual abilities is in dire need of funds.
Currently the centre receives no subsidy from the government and has to think of creative ways to raise funds for the centre that many of the people who use the facilities call home. Johan Gerber, Director, said Triest has 54 clients and some of them stay permanently in the three residences that are not situated on the property in Elm Street.
“They are all adults and all intellectually disabled, but being disabled doesn’t mean they can’t do anything. We like to focus on the ability, not on the disability. He explains their mission at Triest is to develop, motivate, educaste, support and advocate for people with intellectual disabilities. “Our centre has been running for 25 years with the help of the community, by the grace of God, and with support from sponsors. Without support Triest won’t survive. We are an NPO and rely on support and sponsorships.”
Earlier this year, Triest’s major fundraiser, the Triest Wildsete was a major success. Another big fundraiser is the annual Christmas market. This past Saturday July 27, the Triest Derby made its debut and was a resounding success. With some of the Triest clients joining the fun as waiters and jockeys, they mingled with the guests for an unforgettable evening of fun, food and drink.
Guests were told to dress up, dress their ‘horses’ and participate in several fun activities like a gymkhana and race. Several companies joined in the fun and used it as a team building exercise for their staff and tables sold out quickly. Superb snacks as well as a three course meal were served. Prizes were handed out to the winners and the ‘horses’ were auctioned off for more much needed funds for Triest.
Gerber said funds raised are utilised for the daily running of the centre. More donations, sponsorships are always welcome. Contact him on 018 468 6741.
