“It is tough to survive if you are only one of around eleven thousand non-profit organisations in the Western Cape working towards bettering the lives of the underprivileged,”, said Orion CEO Lizelle van Wyk.

Generating work and finding income generating projects for the more than 200 disabled adults they care for, was hard at the best of times she said. “When we ran out of space, our woes nearly had the upper hand.”

The Orion Organisation in Atlantis has for the last 26 years assisted children, youth and adults with disabilities to gain greater self-acceptance.

Orion has also successfully assisted the disabled to be integrated into the open labour market and society in general. One in every four South Africans are born with a disability or birth defect.

“At Orion over two hundred people with disabilities are given a chance every day to reach their potential,” said Van Wyk.

“We have prevailed against a torrent of hardships, especially in caring for disabled individuals in one of South Africa’s most beleaguered and impoverished communities, besieged by extreme socio-economic difficulties.”

The new contracts building will take Orion to new heights and bring with it many opportunities that will ensure the development of the disabled individuals they care for.

The milestone opening event was attended by various dignitaries, board members, sponsors, Friends of Orion and employees.

“The Orion Organisation’s sound business principles and its positive contribution to the Atlantis community must be lauded,” said Dr Lionel Nel, Chief of Staff in the Premier’s Office.

He added that many such individuals have reached extraordinary heights and it is impressive to see what has been achieved at Orion and applauded management and staff for their role in developing the disabled.

In turn, Orion board chairperson Umer Dollie invited the public and interested parties to view the Organisation’s financial statements at any time.

Lou Coetzer, one of the founders of the South African-German Friendship Circle and an Orion Board member, said the new contracts building was already playing a major role in the organisation’s sustainability.

“It is proof that community partnerships add value to all who are in involved. Orion’s income generating projects create job opportunities and brings with it sustainability for everyone involved,” he said