APAE of Itu: Coloring Dreams

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
NGO Name: APAE of Itu (Association of Parents and Friends of Exceptional Children of Itu)  -  Location: Brazil

THE CHALLENGE

In 2023, Brazil had approximately 18.9 million people with disabilities, representing about 8.9% of the population. Many face challenges with mobility, vision, motor coordination, and communication, which often limit their access to cultural, sports, and leisure activities. These barriers can lead to isolation and reduced opportunities for personal development.

There is a growing need for inclusive spaces and programs that promote accessibility, independence, and social participation through activities that foster physical, emotional, and cognitive growth.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

The project aims to improve common areas to support sports, leisure, and cultural activities, promoting greater socialization and inclusion:

Cultural Activities include a music band, a 30-year tradition, which plays a fundamental role in the socialization of the participants. Active participation in the band contributes to the development of hearing, language, and motor coordination. Musical Education: This project seeks to stimulate motor coordination and linguistic skills, as well as foster socialization and inclusion. Through this partnership with the BIC Foundation, they intend to continue musical education activities by hiring a service provider to lead the sessions. In addition to these activities, they will also enhance APAE’s infrastructure to create a sports space, offering a range of sports activities and opportunities for interaction.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Good morning, my name is Jeferson, APAE is really cool, I like it a lot. I like playing with the teachers; they are very good. I really like the food, the school, and I appreciate the affection that everyone has for me and my schoolmates. Thank you, APAE, for everything...

Jefferson, 29 years old