People with mental handicaps are mostly marginalized in our society because they constitute a minority group. Everybody knows someone who has some sort of mental disability, but unless this person is related to one in some way, most people tend to delegate them to the category of “Uncomfortable to be around” or something similar. The result is that they become isolated and their needs are ignored in society, but for some people in Limpopo, this can change.

One institution has as its mission to provide opportunities to people with mental disabilities to become more than just an uncomfortable reminder of man’s vulnerability. The Kennedy Foundation in the USA has been providing funding to mentally handicapped athletes in South Africa since 2005 to take part in the Special Olympics – an event held every four years, just like the Olympic Games. The next such event will be held in 2011, in Athens, Greece. People with mental disabilities who live in the Limpopo Province will be given the opportunity to become part of the team that will participate in this very special event.

Up to now, the programme has benefited people from the previously disadvantaged communities, with great success. Unfortunately, members of the other three population groups have not enjoyed the same benefits and efforts are now underway to rectify this situation. Coaching is being offered in various disciplines which will allow mentally handicapped people to participate in the Athens Special Olympics. These disciplines include, amongst others, athletics, bowls, table tennis, cricket, and swimming.

In 2003, one athlete from Limpopo’s Vhembe district formed part of the national team, while four athletes from the region went to China in 2007. The next opportunity for international participation is in 2009 at the World Games in the USA. From 2010, athletes will be preparing to take part in the 2011 event in Athens.

On Thursday, July 24, a general meeting will take place where all interested parties can attend and find out more about this unique opportunity. Participation in the games is free of charge and the foundation pays for all coaching, transport and accommodation of the athletes. Anyone who is eight-years-old or older can try out and, if successful, will be incorporated into the provincial team to try out for the national team.

The meeting will take place at 18:00 at the premises of Real People, situated above the Butterfield Bakery in Louis Trichardt. People who are able to assist with coaching or any other kind of volunteer who wants to be involved is most welcome to attend the meeting. The message from the organizer of the meeting, Mr Samuel Madua, who is also the provincial coordinator, is that parents who have mentally handicapped children should not hide them or be ashamed of them but to make them part of the community so that they can develop their talents and have reason to be proud.