Footsteps Toward Autism Advocacy

By: Renelie Oira, Footstep Learning Center, School Directress

Parenting a child with special needs maybe the hardest challenge parents will have to face in life. But if parents have information, as well as inspiration, parenting children with special needs will definitely be a learning experience.

In support of this endeavor, Footsteps Learning Center Inc. (FLCI) created Special Education Parent’s Advocacy Link (SPED PAL) in 2009. It is one of the programs of FLCI towards its goal of educating and empowering families, relatives, and caregivers of children with special needs. SPED PAL also targets the community to be involved in caring for these children.

Last Saturday, October, Typhoon Quiel did not stop the FLCI parents in attending the 3rd SPED Parent’s Advocacy Link. We were very blessed to have Mrs. Carmel Almendrala, mom of Michael, Trustee and Head of Advocacy Committee of Autism Society Philippines and 2010 “Ulirang Ina” National Awardee, as our guest speaker.

ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala share her experience with Mike

She imparted her valuable insights on parenting children with autism. The parents, caregivers and teachers were all enlightened with Tita Carmel’s sharing of her experiences on how she conquered the everyday struggles of being a mother to Mike, Special Olympian and loyal employee at the Philippine Information Agency.

Parents were given opportunity to ask questions and offer their own heart-warming stories. We were also honored by the attendance of two of our barangay officials, as we reiterate the significant role of the community in caring for individuals with special needs. Tita Carmel’s faith and courage gave hope to parents and teachers alike in facing their own joys, trials and responsibilities.

ASP Trustee Carmel Almendrala with the
Teachers and Staff of Footstep Learning Center

Footsteps Learning Center, Inc.’s 3rd SPED P.A.L. will indeed be a forum to remember mainly because of the passion of parents like Tita Carmel in advocating for the rights of children with special needs.

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Be an Angel for Autism. Donate generously to ASP Programs and Services. Donate to Autism Society Philippines Metrobank Kamias Branch - SA 047-3-04751874-2. Email us at autismphils@gmail.com or call 7-903-5496.

To request for an Autism Orientation and Awareness Lecture in your area, write us at autismphils@gmail.com or call us at 7-903-5496.