Build a Learning Center for Autism & Down Syndrome

Thank you for continuing to believe in our dream of creating a place where autistic children, children with Down syndrome, and their families in northern Manabí can find the specialized support they need close to home.

During the past few months, we have continued preparing for the future Therapy and Educational Center while searching for the resources needed to begin construction. We have reached out to Ecuadorian companies committed to social responsibility to introduce them to our project and explore potential partnerships. At the same time, thanks to the generous volunteer work of our architect, the final architectural plans and 3D renders of the center are now nearing completion.

Although we have not yet raised enough funds to begin construction, we decided that our mission could not wait for a building.

Since May, Fundación Pasos de Luz has been organizing one monthly activity for children with autism and Down syndrome. Between seven and ten children participate in each gathering, depending on attendance. These activities are carefully prepared with the support of an early childhood educator and include interactive storytelling, puppet theater, group motor activities, painting, sensory play, costumes, and other opportunities for play and social interaction.

For 2 hours, the children have activities designed with their needs in mind, where they can participate at their own pace, explore, play, and connect with other children. We have watched them become increasingly willing to join the activities and enjoy being together.

These may seem like small moments, but for their parents, seeing their children smile, have fun, and connect with others means a great deal.

Parents remain nearby during the activities while giving their children the opportunity to participate more independently. At the same time, they talk with one another, share experiences, and find connection with other families who understand some of the same challenges.

We are especially grateful to the children's library AtrapaCuentos, whose director has generously welcomed us and allowed us to use the library for these monthly gatherings while we still do not have a space of our own.

As we did last year, on June 1 we participated in the local Children's Day Festival, promoting inclusion through a simple activity that neurodivergent and neurotypical children could enjoy together and interact with each other. We brought a giant soap bubble activity, which was especially enjoyed by many autistic children, who found the bubbles calming, engaging, and full of wonder. It was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the simplest experiences can create meaningful moments of joy and connection.

We are also looking ahead. We have begun planning the multidisciplinary team that will eventually serve families at the center and the specialized training they will need. Our goal is to prepare professionals in areas such as structured TEACCH-based intervention, special education, psychology, occupational therapy, communication and language, family support, and therapeutic assistance. We are also developing the therapeutic, educational, and life-skills programs that we hope to provide free of charge, particularly to low-income families and those living in rural communities.

There is still a long road ahead before our center becomes a reality, but these months have reminded us that our work does not begin with a building. It begins by creating opportunities for children to participate, belong, learn, and simply enjoy being children.

Thank you for helping us continue this journey and for giving many families in northern Manabí hope for a better future for their children.

Links:

• Our Website