More Than a Residence – How Casual Day Funding Transforms APD Limpopo into a Thriving Community Home

Creating Dignity Through Design: The Centenary House Story

The gentle hum of conversation drifts through the corridors of Centenary House as residents prepare for their daily activities. In the kitchen, Mirinda Kruger coordinates the afternoon meal preparation, and residents contribute according to their abilities. This isn’t just accommodation—it’s a vibrant community where independence flourishes, made possible by the sustained support of Casual Day’s broad-based fundraising initiative.

For three decades, Casual Day has enabled transformational projects across South Africa, but a few exemplify the power of community-centred care, like APD Limpopo‘s residential facilities. Here, the concept of “home” extends far beyond mere shelter to encompass dignity, purpose, and genuine belonging.

Four Houses, Infinite Possibilities

Each of Centenary House’s four residential facilities tells a unique story of how thoughtful design and sustained funding create environments where persons with disabilities thrive. The homes are specifically configured to support different needs—whether physical or intellectual—fostering independence while maintaining essential support networks.

Mark Neil, a long-term resident, describes his daily routine with evident pride: “I’ve got my own space, but I’m never alone. There’s always someone to chat with, always something happening.” His words capture the delicate balance between independence and community that defines successful disability accommodation.

The success of this model lies in its recognition that people with disabilities don’t need institutional care—they need accessible environments and flexible support. Casual Day funding has enabled APD Limpopo to create precisely this, transforming what could have been clinical facilities into warm, welcoming homes.

Independence Through Empowerment

Antoinette Boshoff radiates confidence as she discusses her role in the facility’s daily operations. Her journey from institutional dependency to active community participation exemplifies how proper funding can transform lives. “I help with the garden, assist in the kitchen when needed, and I’ve got my own routine,” she explains, her voice reflecting the dignity that comes from meaningful contribution.

This transformation didn’t happen overnight. It required sustained investment in accessible infrastructure, staff training, and community-building activities—all made possible through Casual Day’s consistent funding streams. The annual fundraising campaign provides not just money but the reliability that allows long-term planning and relationship building.

The Agricultural Connection: Growing More Than Vegetables

Perhaps nowhere is the community spirit more evident than in the agricultural project operating on APD Limpopo’s five-hectare greenhouse facility. Two Centenary House residents, Stephen Du Plooy and Sybrand Verwey, work alongside the farmer who rents the land, producing world-class peppers and other horticultural products while gaining valuable employment experience.

“It’s not just about the work,” explains Du Plooy with evident enthusiasm. “It’s about being part of something bigger, contributing to the community.” This integration of residential care with meaningful employment opportunities represents a sophisticated understanding of how disability support should function in the 21st century.

Creating Sustainable Communities

The genius of APD Limpopo’s approach lies in its sustainability model. The Eeufeeshuis conference and accommodation facility generates revenue through venue hire and catering services, with the proceeds directly supporting residential programs. The enterprise model ensures long-term viability while maintaining service quality.

Margaret Malatji, who coordinates both office operations and Casual Day activities, emphasises the importance of this integrated approach: “We’re not just running a care facility—we’re creating a community that supports itself while serving others.”

The conference facility regularly hosts events that bring the broader community into contact with residents, breaking down barriers and fostering understanding. Corporate groups attending conferences interact naturally with residents, creating informal advocacy opportunities that traditional fundraising cannot achieve.

The Human Touch: Staff as Community Builders

Barbara Weale, House Parent and Crèche Coordinator, embodies the personal investment that makes community living successful. Her approach to adult daycare goes far beyond basic supervision, incorporating music therapy, recreational activities, and personalised support that recognises each individual’s unique potential.

“Every day brings something different,” Weale explains. “We’re not managing disabilities—we’re supporting people to live their best lives.” This philosophy transforms what could be institutional care into genuine community support.

The volunteer-led music therapy sessions that the NCPD media team witnessed during their visit exemplify this approach. Residents and volunteers create music together, fostering connections that transcend disability categories and build authentic community bonds.

Beyond Basic Needs: Fostering Dignity and Purpose

Jupiter Nkuna’s story illustrates how comprehensive community support transforms lives. His engagement in daily activities, supported by careful attention to his communication needs, demonstrates how proper funding enables person-centred care that recognises individual potential rather than limits diagnoses.

The presence of communication support ensures that every resident can participate fully in community life. This attention to inclusion details—often overlooked in underfunded facilities—makes the difference between institutional care and genuine community living.

A Model for Inclusive Communities

As residents gather for their evening meal, the conversations flowing in multiple languages reflect the diversity and vibrancy of this unique community. Casual Day’s broad-based fundraising approach has enabled APD Limpopo to create something remarkable—a residential model that preserves dignity while providing essential support.

The success of Centenary House demonstrates that with sustained funding and community commitment, disability accommodation can transcend traditional institutional models to create genuine homes where independence and interdependence coexist harmoniously.

Ready to Make a Difference too? Here’s How to Start:

Immediate Actions:

1. Visit www.casualday.co.za and register your support
2. Purchase Casual Day merchandise for yourself, family, or organisation
3. Share these stories on social media using #CasualDay2025 #InclusionMatters
4. Contact your local APD office to discuss volunteer opportunities