The Living Link Centre

 

THE LIVING LINK

Morning Cruise was joined by the uplifting members of the Living Link Centre. We had Abigail Klaasen (The Fundraiser), Gregory Simongpong (The Manager) and Shimila Ownhouse (Job Coach) as well as Nabeelah Brown.

 

Gregory shared that the living link is an organisation that started about 20 years ago in johannesberg and it was founded by a mother that was concerned for her daughter that has an intellectual disability. She started a course to make her daughter feel and become more independent. Since then, the centre has grown into what it is today and caters for young people from ages 18-35 that have an intellectual disability or better known as a learning disability.

 

Our presenter Khusi asked our guests how it could be explained in a simpler form to our listeners here at Bush radio. Shimila then answered and shared that it could be more understood as young people that are not able to read and write and do not complete grade 12. These are learners that need to go into elsain schools.

Abigail shared that the living link are in need of funds and she believes that it was the engine room of any organisation. She also shares that she was drawn by the programmes that the living link was providing and that’s what inspired her to join with them. Abigail also encouraged everyone to donate and open their pockets. She also mentioned that for one learner it costs about R69 900 and this is why she urges companies to donate. If anyone would like to donate they can do it on 0215321812 and on social media specially facebook their name is The Living Link. And check out their website on www.thelivinglink.co.za  .

 

A lot of the leaners that are part of the centre are from poor backgrounds and that is why funding is absolutely important. The living link really wants to provide jobs for these young individuals.  Gregory mentioned that they have a retail outlet that has taken and employed about 26 of the learners coming from the programme. The most important goal is for these individuals to be treated the exact same way without any stigma or stereotyping.

The future plans for the living link is hopefully having a charity coffee shop to get individuals started and also a clothing brand started by the learners that are from the programme.

Abigail shared with us the social media platforms once again and said that not donation is to small whether it is r10 to r10 0000. She wants people who donate to really get involved and know that the money is being used sufficiently.

PRODUCER- JAMIE-LEE FREDERICKS

PRESENTER- MKHUSELI VETO