Mossel Bay APD Honoured with AHI Special Chairperson’s Award

More Than an Award

Recognition such as this provides an opportunity to reflect on what community service really means.

For Mossel Bay APD, the work is not simply about providing services. It is about creating a community where every person, regardless of ability, is valued, respected, included and given opportunities to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Every day, the organisation works towards empowerment and inclusion in practical ways. This includes supporting individuals and families, creating opportunities for development and participation, providing social and community-based support, and helping persons with disabilities become more independent and connected to their communities.

Much of this work happens quietly. It happens in day-care centres, through social work and support services, in conversations with families, during community activities and through the many daily interactions that may not always be visible to the broader community.

The AHI Special Chairperson’s Award provides an opportunity to recognise that work and to acknowledge the difference it makes.

The People Behind the Work

An organisation such as Mossel Bay APD cannot fulfil its mission through one person or one department. It is the combined commitment of many people that makes the organisation's work possible.

Behind every service provided and every opportunity created are individuals who bring their own skills, experience and compassion to the organisation.

Our carers play an important role in the daily lives of the people we serve. Their work requires patience, understanding and genuine care. Through their daily interactions, they help create environments where people feel supported, respected and valued.

Our peer supporters bring a unique perspective because they understand the importance of lived experience. By sharing their own experiences and encouraging others, they help demonstrate that challenges do not have to define a person's potential.

Our respite carers provide valuable support to families and caregivers. Respite care can give families much-needed time and support while ensuring that the person with a disability continues to receive care in a safe and supportive environment.

Our social workers advocate for the wellbeing, development and rights of the people we serve. Their work often extends beyond the immediate needs of an individual, involving families, communities and other stakeholders to find practical ways forward.

Our administrative and financial staff provide the structure that allows the organisation to function effectively. Much of their work takes place behind the scenes, but accurate administration, financial management, communication and coordination are essential to the sustainability of the organisation.

Our kitchen staff contribute in another important way. Preparing and serving meals is not only a practical responsibility; it is also part of creating an environment where people feel cared for and where their everyday needs are treated with dignity.

Each role is different, but each contributes to the same purpose.

Inclusion Must Be Lived, Not Only Talked About

For Mossel Bay APD, inclusion is more than a principle. It is something that must be experienced in everyday life.

Persons with disabilities should have opportunities to participate, learn, develop skills, build relationships, contribute to their communities and experience a sense of belonging.

Children and adults with disabilities deserve opportunities to participate in community activities and events alongside others. Families deserve support and understanding. Individuals deserve to have their abilities recognised rather than being defined only by their disabilities.

Creating an inclusive community requires more than organisations working in isolation. It requires families, businesses, schools, government structures, community organisations, volunteers and ordinary community members to recognise that everyone has a role to play.

This is why partnerships and community support are so important to the work of Mossel Bay APD.

A Community Effort

The AHI Special Chairperson’s Award is therefore also a recognition of the broader community surrounding Mossel Bay APD.

The organisation's work is strengthened by the support of volunteers, families, donors, businesses, community organisations, partners and members of the public who believe that inclusion matters.

Every contribution has value.

Sometimes support comes through financial assistance or donations. Sometimes it comes through volunteering time, sharing information, providing opportunities, supporting an event or simply helping create greater awareness about disability and inclusion.

Together, these contributions help Mossel Bay APD continue providing services and developing opportunities for persons with disabilities and their families.

Celebrating Progress and Looking Ahead

Receiving the AHI Special Chairperson’s Award for 2026 is an important milestone for Mossel Bay APD, but it is not the destination.

The organisation remains committed to strengthening its services, creating new opportunities and finding practical ways to empower persons with disabilities and support their families.

The award serves as encouragement to continue the work and as a reminder of why that work matters.

It is also an opportunity to thank the people who make it possible.

To our staff: thank you for your dedication and daily commitment.

To our volunteers and supporters: thank you for giving your time, resources and encouragement.

To our families: thank you for trusting us to walk alongside you.

To our community partners and local businesses: thank you for recognising the importance of inclusion and for helping us create opportunities.

And to every person with a disability who forms part of the Mossel Bay APD community: you are at the centre of why we do what we do.

A Proud Moment for Mossel Bay APD

The AHI Special Chairperson’s Award for 2026 is a proud moment for Mossel Bay APD and for the community it serves.

This recognition belongs to more than one person. It belongs to everyone who contributes to building a more inclusive community.

It is a celebration of compassion, commitment, empowerment and opportunity.

Most importantly, it is a reminder that meaningful change happens when people work together.

Mossel Bay APD is proud to serve, proud to empower and proud to be part of a community where inclusion matters.

Together, we continue to build a community where every person is valued, included and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.