"We are a drug, alcohol, prostitution and gangster rehabilitation centre. We believe in a process not a programme," explained Pastor Pieter Niemand, founder of Keep the Dream, during the opening of their new premises in Binne Street on Thursday.
Niemand is appealing to "people who care" to assist in fulfilling his dream of turning this empty building into a ministry which will house, not only a 24/7 church, but a workshop where, once troubled people, will learn new skills which will arm them with the necessary tools needed for their full recovery. "Our first project is the rebuilding of a stock car. So far we have the body and are hoping that some generous people will donate bits and pieces which our students could use to finish the car," said Niemand.
Part of the plan for this new centre is to open a call centre, cell phone and computer workshop, a carpentry workshop, steel works, electrical repairs shop to fix weed-eaters and lawnmowers, a spray painting workshop and any other micro and macro business which would help reintegrate these restored young people back into society..
According to Niemand nothing at the Centre is 'free'.
Those who enter the process do so voluntary and need to be sponsored or supported by their family.
"We are currently in the process of registering with the Social Development Department which will enable us to receive Medical Aid accreditation." He added that Keep the Dream is neither a shelter nor a half way house. "Here we help to show the volunteers the way forward.
We do not rescue, we give those in need the tools to help themselves." Niemand further explained that Keep the Dream assists with the recovery of the body, restoration of the individual and family, the reintegration of the individual back into society through either a career path or entrepreneurial skills and after care for life which means that the individual will never be alone again.
Although the centre is one which supports the Christian faith completely, Niemand said: "I believe in Christ and his healing powers, but will never turn away anybody from another religion, we will refer them to a centre which caters for their religion. Here we don't aim to convert, only to heal."
Six recovering addicts addressed the attendees, describing their courageous battle against various drugs and life's difficulties, and the thread throughout their stories is one of wanting to regain the respect of their families and friends after lying and stealing from them for most of their young lives.
In closing Niemand once again appealed to, "businesses, volunteers, prayer warriors, donators and everyone who wants to make a difference to our George community" to donate any items they see fit, to furnish this new centre.
"We are not asking only for money, we need chairs, tables, crockery, cutlery, tools, anything.
Please visit us at 5 Binne Street, George Industria. This new building is for all people that want to change, to recover (rehabilitate) and get back self-worth. George must unite."
Keep the Dream opened their new building in Binne Street. Photographed at the opening are from left: Pastor Pieter Niemand, Lelando Niemand, Alan Cohen, Henk Pretorius, Shaun Oosthuisen. Front from left: Belinda Scala, Carmia Bosman, Jo-Anne Gouws, Pastor Dana Niemand and Madelaine Ebersohn. Photo: Fran Kirsten
