Shristi Special Academy

Shristi Special Academy (SSA) provides many programmes for children who are disabled. Saathi, its early childhood programme for children 0-14 years ol Read mored, aims to diagnose children quickly, and help improve the children’s motor, social, communication, and academic skills. Chiguru is a pre-school programme for both normal children and those with special needs. Prakruti is a programme that helps individuals with Autism to develop communication and life skills. Prayatna is for children with severe multiple disabilities, that teaches the children how to communicate their basic needs and be independent. In addition, it provides care groups to facilitate sensory development, cognitive stimulation, and cooperation for self care. In addition, parents are trained in how to effectively take care of their children. Its program Swavalamban is for disabled children above 14 years to develop vocational skills and learn how to live independently. Samudaya is a rehabilitation programme at home for those who cannot travel. The programme also collaborates with local communities in more than 30 villages, spreading awareness and establishing self-help groups for the disabled. Sadhana is a workshop for adults with disabilities that helps them find employment that fits their skill sets in sheltered environments. In addition, Shristi Special Academy provides various services through its team of special educators, psychologists, therapists (physio, speech, music and occupational), family counselors, support staff, vocational instructors, medico social workers, and parent volunteers. It provides rehabilitation services such as speech therapy, music therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, running therapy, special education, and vocational training. Its special services include family counselling, home visits, and spreading awareness and acceptance of disabilities. It also provides food, ensuring proper nutrition for its beneficiaries from disadvantaged backgrounds. Additionally, it provides transportation services for beneficiaries and teaches them how to travel independently to reduce the challenges that the disabled face while using public transportation. It also conducts training programmes for parents and school teachers with the aim of enhancing their knowledge of providing services to the disabled children. Finally, it is engaged in social work, working with government offices to ensure that the disabled receive social security benefits, such as a disability ID card, disability pension, NIRAMAYA-Health Insurance, and bus and train passes. Awards and Recognition: Manava Seva Dharma Samvardhini Social Excellence Award for Women in Social Excellence, 2001 Arpit Arts Academy Certificate of Achievement for 15 Years of Committed Service in Special Education, 2007 Rotary Service Award, for the best vocational Training Centre, 2009 Rotary award on the occasion of Women's Day from Rotary Udyog Yeshwantpur, 2009 Rotary Vocational Service Award to Ms. Suchita Somashekaraiah, Founder of Shristi, 2012 5 Gold medals in the Special Olympics, 2014