Kupenda for the Children

Kupenda for the Children

How the Nonprofit, Kupenda, Supports Children with Developmental Disabilities Around the World

By Jessica Abrams, Development Director, Kupenda for the Children

March marks Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM), an important time to raise awareness about the challenges faced by children with developmental disabilities, including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other conditions. For many children living in low-income countries, their physical challenges are compounded by harmful cultural beliefs and a lack of access to critical services, such as education and medical care. Kupenda for the Children is dedicated to addressing these barriers by not only supporting children and their families directly but also equipping influential community leaders with the knowledge and tools they need to effectively advocate for children with developmental disabilities.

Globally, Kupenda carries out this work in regions where harmful misconceptions about disabilities are widespread. In some communities, children with developmental disabilities are viewed as cursed, and their disabilities are thought to have been caused by witchcraft, infidelity, or incest. As a result, these children are often neglected, hidden away, or even abandoned. These misguided beliefs also cause many community leaders to promote harmful practices, such as exorcisms, painful healing rituals, and fasting and prayers instead of medical care. Since 1999, Kupenda has worked to remove these harmful perspectives and practices through its education and advocacy initiatives.

Part of this work entails educating local leaders about the medical causes of disabilities and the rights of children with disabilities. This knowledge empowers leaders to challenge harmful beliefs and practices in their communities. On average, each of Kupenda’s one-day, low-cost leader trainings result in improved quality of life for 384 children per year. By equipping local leaders—such as religious figures, government officials, and health workers—with accurate information about developmental disabilities, Kupenda helps create a ripple effect of positive change.

When these leaders are informed about the medical causes of disability and the importance of supporting children with developmental disabilities, they become advocates for change. They are better able to educate their communities, counsel families, and connect children to life-saving services, like medical care, therapy, and inclusive education. This work is essential, as it creates a foundation for long-term transformation, ensuring that children with disabilities can live healthy, fulfilling lives in communities that accept and support them.

On average, each Kupenda’s one-day, low-cost trainings results in disability sensitization for 4,992 residents and improved quality of life for 384 children per year.

As we observe DDAM this month, it is important to recognize the impact of organizations like Kupenda who are working tirelessly to support the world’s most vulnerable children. By raising awareness and educating communities, we can all help to create a more inclusive world, where every child, regardless of ability, is valued and supported.

If you’re interested in learning more, please click here to visit Kupenda’s website.

Kupenda: Disability is Not Inability