Eli, an inspiration from Kurbin

Eli*, a 9-year-old boy from Mamurras, is a symbol of dedication and continuous development. As a child with disabilities, he faces every-day challenges that require special attention and care. The way he has developed and overcomes the challenges makes this story special as it highlights the importance of social inclusion and support for children with disabilities.

Eli lives with his two parents, and has a younger brother, who also receives services at the “Voice of Children” community service center in Mamurras, Kurbin. This center was established with the support of the European Union, through the EU4SocialCare programme.

The boy’s mother plays an essential role in his life, always standing by his side with constant care and dedication. She does her best to provide him with a stable and supportive environment, positively influencing his emotional and social well-being. Eli enjoys a very close and warm relationship with his mother and younger brother, which helps him feel safe and supported in everyday life. However, in his early years, the child showed a form of dettachment and lack of willigness to engage with his peers while at school or other social engagements.

Since his first visit to the “Voice of Children” center, now he attends every day, engaging in various activities with his peers. The staff and the social worker have observed that his involvement in such social activities has had a notable impact on the development of his social skills and interaction with his new friends, gradually becoming an active part of daily life in the community center.

The center staff has followed an organised and inclusive approach, engaging Eli in activities that promote communication, cooperation and his integration into the group. A very important aspect is also the acceptance and support he receives every day from the other children and the staff, which contributes to creating a warm and welcoming setting.

During this time, the child has shown very good progress in his involvement in activities, participating willingly and interacting with more ease with the other children. His engagement has had a positive impact on his social and emotional development. At the same time, he has been actively involved in completing school assignments at the center, gradually building a stable routine and a sense of responsibility. The organized activities have also helped strengthen his communication skills and increase his self-confidence.

From the beginning, there has been a good and continuous cross-institutional cooperation between the school, the staff of the Needs Assessment and Referral Unit, at the Kurbin Municipality and the center, with the aim of supporting Eli in regular school attendance, completing assignments and engaging in fun and developmental activities. Thanks to this coordinated support and continuous commitment, Eli today appears more confident, more open and more involved in everyday life. His case is an example of the importance of cooperation between the family, institutions and the center, in the function of the child's development and well-being.

This project is implemented by the Together for Life Association and the Municipality of Kurbin, in the frame of the EU4SocialCare subgrant scheme. This programme is financed by the European Union, implemented by UNICEF Albania and World Vision Albania, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

*The name of the person has been changed to protect their privacy.