The Athlone District Advice Office will celebrate 30 years of service to the community in 2022, with an array of activities planned for the year.
Brian Alcock, Advice Office Project Director, says this milestone could be achieved only through dedication.
“The dedication and commitment from staff, volunteers and the sometime struggling members of the board (made this possible),” he said. “We always believe to be open, honest and transparent in whatever we do.
“We are eager to ensure the disadvantaged of the community have free and fair access to justice and their rights are not violated, especially their human rights.”
“Many people still don’t know their rights and we must be there not only to advise and assist, but to educate and enrich the community with knowledge and power of how to ensure they can avoid critical legal issues.”
The office’s objective is to “strive for a democratic society in the greater Athlone and surrounding areas where people are informed of their rights and have the power to enforce these rights and all people have free access to justice.”. To provide free legal advice and assistance to the poor, disadvantaged and marginalised groups, especially women, children and the physically challenged.. To raise awareness of human rights within our community.. To assist with community upliftment, development and empowerment projects through educational and awareness workshops and programmes.. Assist with job creation and find employment.
But it has not been smooth sailing for the non-profit organisation (NPO).
They consult on most legal issues, including wills and estates, evictions, lease and other agreements and contracts, labour, housing, substance abuse, family issues, rental arrears and many more.
“Lack of funds or financial support from sponsors or big business (have been a challenge) and we belive that the local business, which is supported by the very people we help, can help with donations or funding or sponsorship,” says Alcock.
“We appeal for big business to sponsor or part sponsor our three major events. Or even give donations in cash or kind to help make our milestone celebration a success, and also help to ensure that we can continue to be of service to the community.”
The office was established by then members of the Athlone North Branch of the African National Congress (ANC) in 1992 and it was named ANC Athlone North Advice Office.
The idea was to address the critical issues affecting impoverished communities affected with poverty, high crime, unemployment and substance abuse and to end injustice.
The organisation has since been de-politicised and registered as an NPO.
Three major events are planned as part of the celebrations.
On Sunday 22 May, an interfaith thanksgiving celebration will be held at the Joseph Stone Auditorium.
This will be followed by an event on Thursday 16 June (Youth Day) with a community indaba with various government departments and institution of social responsibility at the Calvinist Church Hall from 09:00 to 15:00.
The final event for the year will be held on Saturday 24 September with a gala event at the Dulcie September Hall from 18:30 to 23:00.
