Established in 2016, the Vasco Special Needs (VSN) Centre provides a sheltered work environment for special needs young adults, with a primary focus on individuals on the autism spectrum.
Based in Vasco Estate, Goodwood, the centre currently accommodates up to 12 young individuals daily. As a registered non-profit organisation (NPO), VSN Centre operates under the Department of Social Development and Autism South Africa, ensuring a structured and supportive environment for its participants.
“At Vasco Special Needs Centre, we envision a world where every special needs young adult is recognised for their abilities, allowed to thrive, and embraced by a compassionate and understanding community. We are on a mission to be the preferred sheltered work environment that schools, parents, and guardians turn to – a place where abilities shine, and dreams take flight,” says Pieter Schoeman, the project manager at the centre.
Kuwait English School
A recent highlight at the centre was a visit from a group of learners from Kuwait English School in Kuwait. From Monday 24 to Friday 28 February, these learners volunteered at VSN Centre as part of their Duke of Edinburgh International Gold Award programme. The programme required them to complete an 80km physical expedition on and around Table Mountain and participate in a community project.
Incredible experience
“It has been an incredible experience. We were fortunate to have the students spend the last week of February with us. They have contributed meaningfully to our centre and other organisations in Cape Town. Their dedication and enthusiasm were truly inspiring, and we hope our paths cross again in the future,” Schoeman shared.
At VSN Centre, the young adults engage in various creative and skill-building activities, primarily beadwork, arts, and crafts.
Although the centre can accommodate up to 12 participants daily, attendance varies as not all members attend every day.
The centre continues to be a beacon of hope and empowerment for special needs individuals, fostering a space where they can express themselves, develop new skills, and feel valued in a nurturing environment.
