| 111 T T Kelly Deeks Six decades of support The organisation offers a wide range of support, from 24/7 residential care to day programmes focused on creativity, farming, sports, and volunteering. Hōhepa Canterbury COMMUNITY This year sees Hōhepa Canterbury celebrating a milestone few in the non-profit world get to reach, having proudly provided 60 years of continuous, community-driven support for people with intellectual disabilities. From humble beginnings in 1965 as a home school for nine children on the Port Hills, the organisation now supports almost 200 adults across 71 homes and day programmes throughout Christchurch. “We’re incredibly proud to be celebrating 60 years,” says Hōhepa Canterbury community engagement manager Jacqueline Campbell. “It’s significant for any organisation, but especially in the not-for-profit sector. It’s a testament to the strength of our mission and the trust our community has placed in us.” Hōhepa Canterbury was founded by a group of parents, who wanted something better for their children than institutionalisation, which was common practice at the time. They created an alternative with a nurturing environment, where individual potential was recognised and respected. Today, that philosophy is still at the heart of Hōhepa’s work. Guided by the principles of anthroposophy, and inspired by the teachings of Rudolf Steiner, the organisation offers a wide range of support, from 24/7 residential care to day programmes focused on creativity, farming, sports, volunteering, and more. Their vision remains unchanged: Every Life Fully Lived. “We’re not just providing care,” Jacqueline says. “We’re creating opportunities for people to live ordinary, fulfilling lives. Whether it’s working part-time in a café, volunteering, or joining in a local sports team, our focus is on helping each person achieve what’s meaningful to them.” One of Hōhepa’s unique strengths is its commitment to holistic development. While government funding covers basic needs, the organisation also provides alternative therapies, social engagement programmes, and job placement support, services that help bridge the gap between surviving and thriving. “We work on an individual level, really listening to each person’s goals, needs, and dreams,” Jacqueline says. “It’s about creating meaningful pathways, and sometimes that means thinking outside the box.” To celebrate its 60th anniversary, Hōhepa Canterbury has a calendar full of events. A gala fundraiser has recently happened at Aldersgate Centre with about 200 people enjoying a prestigious celebration with live entertainment and a gourmet three-course meal. A golf day at Clearwater is planned for November with the support of Spark, while events for Hōhepa’s people will include a variety show at Cashmere High School’s performing arts centre. Hōhepa has a close relationship with the school, with senior students regularly volunteering with the organisation. A special legacy programme is also being launched this year, offering supporters a way to contribute long-term by including Hōhepa Canterbury in their wills. “It’s a powerful way to ensure our work continues for another 60 years and beyond,” Jacqueline says. Hōhepa is now developing an online gallery, Recollect, to preserve the thousands of cherished memories that have been created over the years, and welcome others to contribute by sharing their images and memories to the platform. With a growing waitlist and increasing demand, Jacqueline is candid about the challenges ahead. “We’re always looking for partners, sponsors, and employment opportunities for the people we support. “Everyone has something to contribute, and our role is to help unlock that.” All domestic & commercial plumbing Hot water cylinder specialists | Drain clearing Colour video inspection | Sewage suction Septic tank clearing Ph: 03 376 4445 Cell: 027 432 8319 Email: info@rossrichdale.co.nz 319 Brougham Street, Christchurch P: 03 365 0907 M: 027 439 7825 Email: info@pyeelectrical.co.nz www.pyeelectrical.co.nz CONNECTING YOU TO THE RIGHT SOLUTION We have been proudly supporting Hohepa Canterbury for 38 years Offering a comprehensive array of services, including: Since 2004, The Tree People are your local tree experts with a commitment to excellence and extensive experience in arboriculture across residential, commercial and urban settings. • Pruning • Removal • Health Care • Vista management • Transplanting • Risk Assessment • Hedge trimming • Planting • Emergency Response • Preservation 03 3849630 info@thetreepeople.nz www.thetreepeople.nz
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