SKILD Center: A Journey of Support

For over a decade, SKILD Center has been a beacon of hope for children with special needs and learning difficulties in Lebanon and the region. Our mission has always been rooted in building an inclusive society where every child and young person is valued for their potential and embraced as an integral part of their community. Over the years, SKILD has pioneered initiatives, overcome tremendous challenges, and made a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of families. As we embark on a new year, we reflect on our achievements, the obstacles we’ve faced, and the aspirations that fuel our commitment to fostering inclusion.

SKILD’s journey has been defined by its holistic approach to serving children with learning difficulties. Through specialized interventions, capacity building, and awareness-raising efforts, we have transformed lives. Our subsidized assessments and therapy sessions, offered through centers in Mansourieh and Zouk Mosbeh, provide critical support to children and their families. In partnership with more than twenty schools, we have created inclusive environments that help children succeed academically and socially. In addition, the Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Program has been a lifeline for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, equipping them with essential skills to prepare for inclusion in mainstream schools. For youth transitioning into higher education, SKILD has partnered with Notre Dame University (NDU) to provide tailored learning accommodations for undergraduates with learning difficulties, helping them overcome challenges and successfully complete their degrees.

In addition to traditional education pathways, SKILD has also broken new ground through the IDEAL Program. This two-year certificate program, launched in collaboration with NDU and Lipscomb University, offers postsecondary education opportunities for youth with intellectual and developmental challenges. The program equips students with life, social, academic, and professional skills, empowering them to lead independent and productive lives. IDEAL has opened the pathway to inclusion in employment as more than 90% of our graduates are not enrolled in part time jobs. This is a dream come true for so many parents to see their children with special needs grow up to become productive and independent adults.

SKILD’s commitment to innovation has been especially evident during Lebanon’s ongoing crises. As families faced financial hardships and health restrictions, SKILD introduced an Arabic-language electronic library featuring more than 150 specialized videos. These resources, which have been viewed by over 150,000 individuals across the Arab world, provided parents with tools to enhance their children’s skills at home. This digital journey continued with puppet videos promoting social-emotional learning and televised campaigns to raise awareness about learning difficulties. These initiatives have bridged the gap for families unable to access individualized support.

Raising awareness has been at the core of SKILD’s mission. Since co-launching Lebanon’s National Day for Students with Learning Differences on April 22, SKILD has worked tirelessly to celebrate and advocate for inclusion through conferences, seminars, and events. Our annual conferences have empowered thousands of educators and parents with practical tools to better support children with special needs. Meanwhile, initiatives like the Parent2Parent support group have provided families with much-needed encouragement and guidance. Events such as the globally recognized Night to Shine, which crowns individuals with special needs as kings and queens, have celebrated the inherent worth and dignity of every participant.

Despite Lebanon’s compounded crises, including economic instability, displacement, and the aftermath of war, SKILD has remained steadfast in its mission. We have adapted to the challenges, ensuring continuity of care and support for the most vulnerable. Our efforts have demonstrated that inclusion is not just a goal but a necessity, especially in times of hardship.

Through partnerships with schools, families, and communities, SKILD has pioneered innovative programs that are making a lasting difference in the lives of children with special needs.

 

 

As we look to the future, SKILD aspires to expand its reach and deepen its impact. Our vision includes advocating for inclusive policies that ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive and achieve their potential.

This all could not have been achieved without walking alongside partners, schools, and advocates who carried the torch with SKILD since 2011. Together, our work is a vital step toward creating a society that values every individual, regardless of their abilities. By fostering awareness, equipping educators, and empowering families, we are shaping a future where inclusion is not merely an aspiration but a reality. Together, we can make a difference.