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Boost for Beijing's 'Differently Abled'

As part of its marking of China's National Day, Beijing Hui Ling, a unique local
non-profit community organization, will on May 18 China's Day for the Disabled -launch a multi-media campaign to spread the message of hope and equality for people with learning disabilities.

Day in, day out, the organization's courtyard base is always a hive of activity. Hidden away down an old hutong near the Forbidden City and with only basic amenities, the courtyard might seem an unlikely setting for an organization like this operating services for people with such disabilities.

But for the youths and adults who show up for training sessions or to work in the "Three Primary Colors'workshop, Beijing Hui Ling is a home-from-home. After years of being sidelined or over-protected by parents and society, those who attend have -often for the first time in their lives -a place to call their own and a chance to
develop a totally new image of themselves and to "Be somebody"

As in many other countries, China has traditionally closed the door on people with learning disabilities (mental handicaps). Such unfortunates were all too often kept out of sight and mind in institutions, or locked up at home, hidden away from the prying eyes of ignorant, nosy neighbors.

Now things are changing.

The China Disabled Persons's Federation recently issued a detailed five-year action plan to pilot high-quality community rehabilitation services for learning-disabled adults, a watershed in disability policy. By setting up services within the local community, based on the principles of equality of opportunity and integration, Beijing Hui Ling is at the forefront of this initiative.

The organization not only gives disabled people a chance to learn independent living skills in an open and healthy environment, but teaches members of society "who wouldn't normally have daily contact with mentally handicapped people " to put aside prejudices and welcome these differently abled-folks into their midst.

With a maximum of six residents, Beijing Hui Ling- Family Group Homes provide care in a family-style setting for youths and adults whose parents have difficulty looking after them. The Activity and Training Center offers a curriculum in self-care, communication and life-skills, using local community facilities such as the local library, shops, parks and sports centers as "real-life classrooms"

Hui Ling's vocational area, the 'Three Primary Colors'Workshop, provides job training opportunities in the community. With great patience and skill, the young trainees produce an inspired wide range of beautiful, traditional arts-and-craft items, including cards, jewelry, T-shirts and mobile phone accessories. Products are sold in local shops and at bazaars, at coffee mornings and other events around Beijing.

The workshop also plays host to groups of tourists visiting the courtyard to get a glimpse of life in the hutongs, an important source of income. Much more than a traditional sheltered workshop, Three Primary Colors plays a vital role in the lives of the young trainees, giving them a chance to develop new social and numeracy skills while making friends with people from all around the globe.

Seeing the youthful trainees enthusiastically interact with visitors leaves one in no doubt that these simple activities make the world of difference to building up their self-confidence and sense of self-worth. Every cent earned goes straight back into the workshop, helping to pay stipends and cover operational costs.

As a local non-profit organization, Beijing Hui Ling relies mainly on donations from individuals, the business sector and foundations. The organization charges monthly fees at lower-than-cost level. However, many families fall into the low-income bracket and in these cases, Beijing Hui Ling provides further means-based subsidies. The organization is meticulous in its account keeping, and recently underwent an audit by a renowned international firm.

It goes without saying that life has improved beyond measure for the people who come to Beijing Hui Ling. Their parents, many of whom are retired or unemployed, find having the organization on their doorstep a huge relief from the burden of responsibility of caring for their son or daughter.

Perhaps less visible, but just as important, is the impact Beijing Hui Ling has on the wider community. Attitudes and prejudices don't change overnight, and it works ceaselessly to promote the values and beliefs that are central to its mission.
Naturally, Beijing Hui Ling needs the support of the local and expatriate community to expand and improve its services. For further information on how you can get involved, or to make a donation

e-mail info@huiling-bj.org or phone 8404-3691.
Every little bit makes a difference. It truly does.