[VIDEO] ORO viert 30-jarig bestaan met diverse activiteiten: ‘Met aandacht voor elkaar en echte betrokkenheid

The Othmarus Rijtven Organisatie (ORO), a care provider for individuals with intellectual disabilities, is marking its 30-year milestone with a series of community-focused events. Following a 1996 merger between the Stichting Rijtven and the Othmarusstichting, the organization has expanded its footprint across Deurne, Helmond, Asten, and Someren, currently supporting its mission with approximately 1,800 staff members and 800 volunteers.

Did You Know? The name ORO is an acronym representing the Othmarus Rijtven Organisatie, which was formed when the Stichting Rijtven and the Othmarusstichting combined their operations in 1996.

How ORO celebrated its 30-year anniversary

To celebrate the anniversary, ORO transformed its grounds into a festival-style environment for the annual “Verwendag.” The event featured three distinct zones: the “Snoezelrijk” for relaxation, the “Dierenrijk” for animal interaction, and the “Prikkelrijk,” which hosted live performances by artists including Peaces, Kevin Apfel, Sheréna, and Senna.

A significant addition to the celebration was the unveiling of a PSV-red carriage, donated by the JENS Foundation. This organization, established in memory of the late Jens Couwenberg, supports individuals in vulnerable positions through equine-assisted activities and sports. The carriage is intended to facilitate transportation for ORO clients.

Why the anniversary matters for the community

The milestone highlights the operational scale of ORO, which functions as a care provider in the region. By hosting both client-focused festivities and a separate “Feestival” for employees and volunteers, the organization emphasized its internal culture of collaboration. Wilbert de Groot, a manager at ORO, noted that both events shared a core purpose: “Twee verschillende evenementen, maar met dezelfde gedachte: bij ORO doen we het samen”, adding, “Met aandacht voor elkaar, echte betrokkenheid en ruimte om te genieten van de mooie momenten.”

What happens next for the organization

With the 30-year anniversary celebrations concluding, ORO is likely to continue its established model of care across its various regional locations. As the organization moves forward, the newly acquired PSV-red carriage will be integrated into the activity schedule for residents, providing a tangible way to continue the support provided by the JENS Foundation. The organization maintains its focus on the “togetherness” strategy defined by management, as it balances the needs of 1,800 employees and its client base.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name ORO stand for?
The name stands for Othmarus Rijtven Organisatie, originating from the 1996 merger of the Stichting Rijtven and the Othmarusstichting.

What is the purpose of the JENS Foundation donation?
The foundation donated a PSV-red carriage to be used to transport ORO clients, supporting the organization’s focus on activities for people with disabilities.

How many people are involved in the organization?
ORO operates with approximately 1,800 employees and 800 volunteers across locations including Deurne, Helmond, Asten, and Someren.

How do you think community-integrated events like the ORO festival impact the long-term well-being of care facility residents?