Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) Paving the Way for Special Education
Introduction
1. Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
- CEC is a professional association that focuses on advancing the success of children with exceptionalities. Their mission is to improve the educational success of individuals with disabilities and/or gifts and talents.
Initiatives
- CEC offers resources for educators, parents, and policymakers, promoting best practices in special education. They conduct research, provide professional development opportunities, and advocate for policies that support inclusive education.
2. National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
- NCLD is committed to improving the lives of the 1 in 5 children and adults nationwide with learning and attention issues. They envision a society in which every individual possesses the academic, social, and emotional skills needed to succeed in school, at work, and in life.
Initiatives
- NCLD provides resources, tools, and advocacy efforts to empower individuals with learning disabilities. Their initiatives include policy advocacy, educator training, and the creation of resources for parents and students.
3. Autism Speaks
Mission
- Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions for individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support. Their goal is to enhance the lives of those affected by autism by funding research, providing resources, and raising awareness.
Initiatives
- Autism Speaks funds research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and a cure for autism. They also offer toolkits, guides, and support for families, educators, and communities to better understand and address the needs of individuals with autism.
4. The Arc
Mission
- The Arc advocates for and serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). They work to promote and protect the human rights of individuals with IDD and actively support their full inclusion and participation in the community.
Initiatives
- The Arc focuses on policy advocacy, providing information and resources to individuals with IDD and their families. They also promote inclusive education, employment, and community living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
5. Understood
Mission
- Understood is a diverse community that supports parents of children with learning and attention issues. They aim to empower parents with the information they need to understand, identify, and address the unique challenges their children may face.
Initiatives
- Understood offers a wealth of resources, including articles, expert advice, and personalized tools, to help parents navigate the complexities of learning and attention issues. They foster a supportive community where parents can connect and share experiences.
6. Easterseals
Mission
- Easterseals is dedicated to changing the way the world views and defines disabilities. They provide support, resources, and advocacy to ensure that people with disabilities can live, learn, work, and play in their communities.
Initiatives
- Easterseals offers a wide range of services, including inclusive childcare, therapy, and employment support. They also advocate for policies that promote inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
7. Best Buddies International
Mission
- Best Buddies is committed to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Initiatives
- Best Buddies
focuses on fostering friendships and inclusion through various programs,
including school-based initiatives, integrated employment opportunities, and
leadership development for individuals with intellectual and developmental
disabilities.
Non-Government Organizations dedicated to special education
are the unsung heroes, tirelessly working to create a world where individuals
with diverse needs can thrive. Through advocacy, resources, and community
support, these NGOs are instrumental in breaking down barriers, fostering
inclusivity, and championing the rights of those who deserve every opportunity
to succeed in education and beyond. As we celebrate the impactful work of these
organizations, let us recognize and support their efforts in shaping a more
inclusive and equitable world for individuals with special needs.
