Empowering the intellectually disabled
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”
Psalm 32:8
Who We Are
Place of Purpose is a non-profit organisation in Alberton, Gauteng, dedicated to supporting young adults with intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, cognitive disabilities, and special needs slow learners. We provide a safe, caring, and inclusive environment where each individual is valued and encouraged to reach their potential.
Our mission is to give every young adult with an intellectual handicap or developmental disability a place where they can belong, discover talents, and live with dignity and joy — while reaching their full potential and finding purpose in life.
What We Do
At Place of Purpose, we help special needs adults grow through skills for daily living, practical life skills, creative expression, and social interaction. Our programs include:
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Sheltered work environments such as soap making and baking, where students can contribute meaningfully while receiving a small stipend.
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Creative projects that inspire confidence and imagination.
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Group outings and community activities that build friendships and social skills.
By combining structured learning with purposeful activities, we empower young adults with intellectual disabilities and developmental challenges to live more independent, fulfilling, and purposeful lives — supporting them in reaching their full potential and embracing purpose every day.
Our Process
We understand that every learner is unique. That’s why our skills development programs for adults with intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, and other special needs are delivered in small groups with a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:5.
This approach allows us to provide individual attention, patient guidance, and personalised support in a sheltered work environment. Whether a young adult is a slow learner or has an intellectual handicap, our process ensures they develop at their own pace while building confidence, reaching their full potential, and finding true purpose in life.
About Our Life Skills & Purpose Centre
At Place of Purpose, we have developed our own skills-based program called “My Independence”, created for young adults with intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, and other special educational needs.
The program provides real-life learning contexts that celebrate achievement and help students strengthen their personal development, social interaction, daily living skills, and practical abilities. With a focus on person-centred planning, My Independence ensures that every learner is supported in building confidence, reaching their full potential, and finding true purpose in life.
Program Outcomes:
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Self-confidence and self-awareness – helping each individual discover their strengths and value.
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Personal safety – understanding how to protect themselves and make safe choices.
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Health and wellbeing – knowledge of how to stay healthy emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
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Personal development – growing in independence, responsibility, and purpose.
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Practical life skills – developing abilities for daily living and meaningful participation in a sheltered work environment.
Our Codes of Practice:
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Independent Living – building confidence in daily living skills and encouraging as much independence as possible.
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Friends, Relationships, and Community – fostering social connections, meaningful friendships, and active participation in the community.
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Good Health – promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing in a safe and supportive environment.
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Sheltered Work & Purposeful Activities – providing opportunities to contribute meaningfully through sheltered work environments, creative projects, and structured activities that bring a sense of achievement.
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Connect With Us Today
Contact Person:
Gwen Mc Kechnie
Address:
Based in Alberton, Gauteng
Servicing Ekurhuleni, Soweto, and surrounding communities