Striving towards a better life for elders

THE Clare Estate Senior Citizens’ Association, known as Cesca, is a registered non-profit and public benefit organisation.

The association was inaugurated in July 2002 as a result of senior citizens being refused membership at another senior citizens club.

Starting with 11 members steadily grew in stature.

On October 24, 2004, was the sod turning ceremony where then Minister Narend Singh unveiled a signboard denoting Cesca's headquarters at 311 Clare Road, Clare Estate.

They purchased a further property that was adjacent to the headquarters.

The plans for the construction of the retirement home, resource centre and recreational centre were approved by the ethekwini Municipality and building commenced in early 2009.

The association saw it important to realise that growing old is a period when a person's contribution to society is acknowledged and thereafter valued.

Their ultimate goal is to protect the dignity of every person in terms of the Bill of Rights.

They strive to lighten the access of older ones to health, welfare and support

it systems so that these dear ones could maintain a good level of physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Sport and keeping fit is a priority with Cesca, and all members can enjoy other entertainment and leisure.

As it stands, the hall is complete, and certain other aspects are in line to be completed by year end.

What Cesca hopes to do is such an unselfish gesture.

They are inviting other established senior citizen associations to enjoy the facilities once completed.

Committee member, Aroon Edward, said

“It is no easy task to build an old age centre let alone complete it.

“In our country, particularly Indian South Africans, always find it extremely difficult to achieve this objective due to many factors which include a lack of commitment from people, an attitude of indifference and general apathy.

It, therefore, becomes that much more difficult for any organisation to achieve such a milestone and the officials of Cesca have to be commended for their continued commitment and faith in their objective.”

Tell us about your club and what you are doing.

E-mail: post@inl.co.za