Empowering Marginalized Students through Scholarships

The Special Education Program for Children with Disabilities, undertaken by Nora Solomon Foundation, is dedicated to providing inclusive and equitable education opportunities for children facing various disabilities.

Program Objectives:

The core objectives of the Special Education Program were:

To ensure access to quality education for children with disabilities.
To foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
To empower children with disabilities to develop essential life skills.
To promote social inclusion and awareness.

Program Overview:

The program focused on the following key components:

Accessible Education: Providing accessible and inclusive classrooms for children with disabilities.
Tailored Curriculum: Developing a curriculum that caters to the diverse needs and abilities of the participants.
Therapeutic Support: Offering specialized therapeutic support, including speech therapy, physical therapy, and counseling.
Teacher Training: Training educators and support staff in inclusive teaching methods and disability awareness.

The Special Education Program of the Nora Solomon Foundation (NSF) represents a dedicated effort to create awareness and provide support and education for individuals with various mental and physical disabilities, especially those who have been marginalized by society and their families. The program encompasses several initiatives aimed at sensitizing society, counseling families, and offering specialized education and training for differently-abled individuals. Here's an elaboration of NSF's Special Education Program:

1. Employment of Special Educator Consultants (Sp Eds):

NSF has taken significant steps by employing Special Educator Consultants. These professionals play a crucial role in providing specialized support, including physiotherapy, health training, and instructional programs, to individuals with special abilities residing in remote villages of Uttarakhand. These areas often lack basic healthcare amenities and infrastructure, making the work of Sp Eds invaluable. Since April 2016, Sp Eds have been reporting to partner learning centers within the CHGN-UKC network, where they develop methodologies and processes to train individuals with special needs. Their work not only focuses on improving the lives of these individuals but also empowers them to lead more fulfilling lives despite their conditions.

2. Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) and Family Training:

NSF recognizes the importance of involving families in the support and development of differently-abled individuals. The Sp Eds assess and create Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) and targets tailored to the specific needs of each differently-abled person. Simultaneously, they provide training to family members and volunteers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge required to conduct programs and offer support when the Sp Eds are not present. This approach aims to empower families to play an active role in the growth and improvement of their loved ones.

3. Partnership with Action For Autism (AFA):

AFA is a pioneering, non-profit organization focused on providing support and services to individuals with autism in South Asia. NSF funds AFA's Parent Counseling Programs and Train the Trainer Program conducted at their center. These programs are essential for guiding and counseling parents and families of persons with Autism. Additionally, they produce efficient and skilled trainers who bridge the gap between the supply and demand for autism-related services, thereby enhancing the support available to the autistic community.

4. Sponsorship of Ashish Foundation For Differently Abled (AFDA):

AFDA is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder. NSF sponsors AFDA for conducting Parent Awareness Programs, Panel Parental Group Counseling sessions, and a training program for producing "Master Trainers." These Master Trainers are qualified individuals who can train volunteers and Special Educators, expanding the pool of professionals available to support individuals with special needs.

5. Collaboration with Samvedna - CHGN-UKC WCD

NSF collaborates with Samvedna, an organization based in Uttarakhand, to address the needs of the differently-abled community. Their efforts focus on early detection, intervention, care, capacity building, federation, advocacy, training, and employment in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. NSF's sponsorship of Samvedna's activities, such as wheelchair drives and mobility aids distribution events, illustrates their commitment to improving the lives of the differently-abled in the region.

6. Support for PROTECTION OF THE RIGHTS OF DIFFERENTLY ABLED CHILDREN (PORDAC):

NSF has provided valuable support to PORDAC by offering the use of its space in Vasant Kunj without levying rent or license fees for running a School for Autistic Children. Furthermore, NSF has renovated and designed the school to make it suitable for the unique needs of special students. In addition to infrastructure support, NSF funds the salaries of counselors at PORDAC, offering counseling and support to parents and other family members. This counseling is vital in addressing the emotional and psychological challenges that caregivers of special children often face.

7. Partnership with SAMADHAN:

NSF has partnered with SAMADHAN, an NGO actively raising awareness about intellectual disability, advocating for inclusion in mainstream schools, providing therapy, special education, and early intervention. NSF's financial contributions have supported various initiatives by SAMADHAN over the last decade, contributing to their efforts in improving the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

NSF's Special Education Program is a comprehensive and multifaceted initiative that encompasses awareness, counseling, individualized support, family involvement, and partnerships with organizations dedicated to improving the lives of differently-abled individuals. This program reflects NSF's commitment to empowering and transforming the lives of those with special needs, ensuring they receive the care, education, and support necessary to lead fulfilling lives and integrate into society.