About Us

The Joyce Chevalier Centre has been a beacon of hope and support in Fish Hoek since 1972, when Joyce Chevalier, inspired by her own experience as a mother to a child with Down Syndrome, founded a support group for families navigating the challenges of disability. Originally a community initiative under the guidance of St Kiaran’s Presbyterian Church and Glen Craig, the Centre evolved into a formal organization in 1999, dedicated to empowering adults through sheltered employment. 

Today, the Joyce Chevalier Centre operates as a Non-Profit Organization, reliant on a blend of fundraising efforts, Department of Social Development grants, student fees, and work contracts completed by our dedicated workers. 

Who We Serve

Our workshops cater to adults whose unique support needs make them less suited to the traditional labor market. Here, individuals find a supportive environment to acquire new skills, work collaboratively, and build self-confidence. This experience offers a fulfilling and supportive career within our Centre. 

Each participant benefits from a personalised development plan tailored to their individual aspirations, whether they seek to enhance skills, improve work habits, or build social connections. We are committed to nurturing each person’s unique talents and fostering their personal growth. At the Joyce Chevalier Centre, we uphold the dignity of work, respect individual choice, and believe passionately that everyone deserves the chance to chase their dreams and achieve their goals. 

Our Vision

Our vision is to foster a just and equitable society where individuals with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual disabilities, are fully integrated and valued. We aspire to create an environment where every person, regardless of their abilities, is recognized and celebrated for their unique qualities and contributions.

We envision a world where persons with intellectual disabilities are not only accepted but are seen as integral and cherished members of their communities. Their diverse perspectives, skills, and potential are acknowledged and harnessed to enrich the collective experience of society.

In line with this vision, we are committed to advancing the ideals outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP2030). We strive to align our efforts with the NDP’s goals of inclusivity, equality, and sustainable development. By doing so, we aim to ensure that policies, practices, and societal attitudes evolve to support and uplift individuals with disabilities, allowing them to thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Our commitment is to build a future where every individual, irrespective of their abilities, can access opportunities, participate in community life, and live with dignity and respect. We believe that through collective effort and dedication, we can achieve a society where inclusivity and appreciation are not just aspirations but realities.