Dalene Kooper
The Association of Diplomatic Spouses (ADS) recently handed over newly installed shade nets valued at N$41 000 to the Special Olympics Namibia centre in Windhoek.
National Director of Special Olympics, Levien Smit in her acceptance speech said that the donation immensely strengthens their programmes at the Katutura youth complex.
“This is really just the beginning and building of partnerships. Our organisation needs the community to buy into our programmes to support us financially and also in equipment, in opportunities for our athletes,” Smit said. She added that the donated nets ensure that a lot of athletes can participate in more programmes.
“This donation is really upgrading our facility, making it a better home for our athletes, more friendly environment which is more important,” she said.
Special Olympics centre offers various sports activities, training and fitness programmes alongside educational programmes to athletes with intellectual disabilities. Smit remarked that the centre will be able to accommodate more athletes, both young and old, as the shaded nets allow for capacity expansion. The centre currently caters for 1 000 athletes in Windhoek.
She hopes more corporate organisations and the community can contribute to Special Olympics centres across the country in developing their facilities and create a more welcoming space for athletes with intellectual and development disabilities.
“We need Namibia to buy in and help support and make opportunities possible for special athletes
She expressed gratitude towards ADS for the donation and being involved with the centre throughout last year.
“They have worked as volunteers and trusted us to put up the shaded nets for our athletes to make sure they perform conveniently,” Smit said.
President of ADS, Mathias Geisler said that the donation is a “small investment with a huge impact”. He said the donation is important as it will be able to provide a safe and supportive environment for special athletes.
“The athletes are here every day. It will double the space for sports activities and athletes can do homework under the shaded nets,” Geisler said.
The association will host a fundraising event on 18 April at the Windhoek International School. The receipts will go to community projects in the field of education.