Pretoria Workshop for the Blind t/a VizAbility is a non-profit organization founded in 1929 to provide employment to visually impaired and disabled people. The organization embarked on a business-oriented approach as opposed to a welfare-oriented approach. The ethos of creating employment, according to their restrictions, for people living with disabilities, is strictly adhered to. As an NPC, VizAbility strives to become financially self-sustainable. The manufacturing and contract packaging market was entered and has proved to be ideal for the employees; mentally, physically, and financially. In 2003 VizAbility acquired a company which manufactures, packs and exports fertiliser sticks and has very successfully managed this enterprise. This taxable company, the Greener Fertiliser Option (Pty) Ltd has VizAbility as its sole shareholder and exports to Europe and supplies locally. The NPC owns the property and equipment, is responsible for all overheads and employs all staff. It also provides a full admin service to the taxable company in return for a management fee. These funds are then allocated towards running costs, equipment, and machinery to generate more work for persons with disabilities. Being an NPC, we are registered with SARS and able to provide Section 18A receipts for any donations received. The Social Enterprise’s income is made up of sales, subsidies, grants, and a management fee. The taxable company is responsible for its own production costs, wages, and any other direct costs. Due to the diversity, talents and capabilities of the workforce, the employees are paid on a “pay for performance” basis. VizAbility with its unique workforce offers manufacturing and packing services to the broader market both locally and internationally. VizAbility endeavours to partner with corporate South Africa for business opportunities as a Corporate Social Investment (CSI) partner of choice. VizAbility is a service provider with a unique workforce who has proved itself to take on projects and deliver on-time, quality services.
