Grow Strong

About

Grow Strong was established by Marc and Brigit Oudejans in 2020.

Marc and Brigit have been Child and Youth Care Workers in the Grabouw Community since 2018. Over the years the couple has watched children struggle with their identity, their confidence and developing a healthy mindset, purely because they battle academically. With boys, this struggle often turns to frustration, bitterness and anger towards themselves and the world around them in their teens. 

Eventually, these young men give up on trying. 

But there is hope. Using Grow Strong methods, these young adults have the opportunity to flourish after learning new skills and receiving praise. They think, move and live differently once they feel empowered, appreciated, and part of something positive. 

Marc and Brigit want to see this change in more youngsters. They want to show these teens that they have gifts, talents and a purpose, and they do this by growing hope, confidence and belonging.

Marc and Bridgit’s end goal is one where facilitators and volunteers unite to form a force that tackles the internal and external obstacles faced by young men. 

By God’s grace, they will help them redeem their lives. 

Meet the Team

The team at Grow Strong have a passion for helping young men reach their full potential.

Founder Members

• Marc Oudejans
• Brigit Oudejans

Volunteers

• Ubner Williams
• Billy Miller
• John and Rona Miller
• Niels Filter

The founders and volunteer team look forward to hearing from people in the community who would like to teach the young attendees their skills. 

Grow Strong Programme

The three-year Grow Strong programme is as follows:

Year One

Year One’s focus is on getting learners' hearts strengthened with renewed hope and trust.

Programme Itinerary:

• Team Building
• Group Sports & Fun Activities
• Personality & Strength Finding Opportunities
• Gardening, Cooking, Baking, Sewing & Woodwork
• Basic Mathematics & Literature
• Biblical Foundation Course

Year Two

Year Two’s focus is on learning new skills and equipping learners to face new challenges.

Programme Itinerary:

• Public Speaking & Communication Skills
• Garden Work, Cooking, Baking, Sewing & Woodwork
• Basic Administrative & Computer Knowledge
• Basic Mathematics & Literature

Year Three

Year Three sees the learners applying and using what they have learnt practically.

• Job Shadowing
• Product Sales
• Leadership Opportunities
• Onsite Supervisory Positions
• Basic Mathematics & Literature

Donations

The Grow Strong Programme is a non-profit organisation that is completely reliant on assistance from the public. Additionally, the organisation is a registered Public Benefit Organisation, which means anyone who has made a donation can claim a tax deduction, up to a certain limit.

Although the local community generously supports the incentive, more helping hands are needed to change the lives of Grow Strong’s young men. 

How You Can Make A Difference

1. Pray for Grow Strong - The NPO seeks God’s best for the ministry, for those who make the work possible with their gifts, and for those they serve. They also ask God to guide them in all they do
2. Visit Grow Strong - Visitors who are willing to share their time, experience, and heart with the teens, volunteers and organisers are always welcome
3. Donate Used or New Items - You may have items you no longer need, or you may be able to put a few grocery items in your trolley for Grow Strong each month. 
4. Assist with the Running Costs - Every cent counts toward running Grow Strong

Bank Details

FNB
Bank account no: 630 066 121 96
Branch code: 200312

International Deposits: BIC Code: FIRNZAJJ 
Address: 69 Highlands Road, Grabouw 7160

Fund the Facilitators|- EFT

Marc and Brigit are full-time missionaries and do not earn a salary for their work with the teens. Should you wish to make it possible for them to continue serving in this capacity, please see the banking details below, or feel free to contact us, should you be able to assist in another way.

Marc & Brigit Oudejans
FNB
Bank account no: 621 470 603 47
FNB branch code 201410

Reviews

“What an amazing group of young men! Well done with the work you do at Grow Strong, Marc and Brigit!”  Hermien Greeff

“Grow Strong is an amazing initiative, run by amazing people who have chosen to love young people with Jesus' love. To see the change, already evident in these youngsters, has overwhelmed my heart.”  Lisa Muir

“We are in awe of the way Grow Strong uplifts these young men.”  Terra Madre