The Welldon Activity Group was the subject of the talk given to the Club on 17 September 2014. Our speaker, Brian Whitehead, brought us greetings from our friends in the Rotary Club of Littlehampton, and then got on with telling us about the Welldon Activity Group (WAG).
The WAG centre provides Day Care for some 40 Clients, mostly with either autism or with Down’s syndrome, using 6 volunteer staff and 6 full time staff. There are some 4 – 7 different activities on offer each weekday, providing a very wide choice of activities for the clients. Brian is the founder and the manager of the centre, and described how it has grown since receiving its first client in 2002. They cater today for an age range of 22 – 93!
Brian thanked the Club for its continued support over the years. The Club’s contribution each Christmas has made a real difference to the Clients. The centre acquired an allotment in 2009, and makes good use of the fruit and vegetables that are grown on it. The centre is tightly managed as funds are scarce, but each client receives an annual summer outing, a number of BBQs, visits to coffee shops and supermarkets (a treat for those in care homes), a trip to the cinema, a Birthday present and a cake, and 2 presents at Christmas!
Brian summarised by saying that the Welldon Activity Group has great staff, regular volunteers, happy clients, sound support, and experienced, well-trained volunteers. He also brought samples of the work done at the centre for us to appreciate. Well done Brian, you have earned our admiration!
