Durban, 7 July 2023 – Following the success of the Hollywoodbets Durban July, the Hollywood Foundation (HWF) is thrilled to announce its contribution to the South African Riding for the Disabled Association (SARDA), that runs a remarkable programme aimed at serving children with special needs. The much-needed assistance ensures that children are granted the same opportunities for stimulation and growth, including the joy of horse riding. SARDA’s therapeutic horse-riding programme plays a crucial role in enhancing the holistic development of young people, allowing them to experience the joys of childhood and reach their full potential.
The Hollywood Foundation recognises the significance of inclusive activities for children living with disabilities. In pursuit of this shared vision, the HWF is honoured to contribute R50,000 towards the development of SARDA trainers and the provision of essential resources. This funding will be directed towards specialised training for three SARDA trainers, enabling them to effectively stimulate and guide young participants in the programme. Additionally, the Hollywood Foundation’s support will help establish a Wendy house at the SARDA-Hillcrest Assagay facility to facilitate the safe storage of materials.
The handover event was held on Friday, 7 July 2023, at SARDA-Durban in Assagay. The event was attended by Vuyisile Ngobese, Public Relations Officer for Hollywood Foundation, representatives from Gold Circle, Nicole Wille from the Hollywoodbets’ Life After Racing programme, as well as Chairperson of SARDA Durban Ms Libby Durk.
SARDA Durban offers free horse-riding sessions to approximately 50 children per week. All current children participating in the programme are from special schools, who are between the ages of 5 and 16. Their goal is to extend the programme to reach out to more children with special needs throughout Durban.
Talking about the contribution, Vuyisile Ngobese Public Relations Officer for Hollywood Foundation said, “This contribution which the Foundation makes to the facility, is one that is close to our hearts since it affirms our support to children with special needs. This year we have extended our support to volunteers at the centre by ensuring that they receive the necessary practical and theoretical training that will enable them to care and the effectively stimulate the young people.”
Libby Durk, Chairperson of SARDA Durban, conveyed her appreciation, stating, “Thank you to the Hollywood Foundation for their generous contribution. We are immensely grateful for their ongoing partnership, as they assist us in increasing our instructor base with this generous donation specifically designated for teacher instructors. Through this collaboration, we can continue the important work of broadening our base of SARDA instructors into our therapeutic rider programme, ultimately providing ongoing benefits to children with special needs.”
