Examples of
CHAPTER
55Community-Directed Programs
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In this chapter we give examples of 6 rehabilitation programs in 5 countries. Each is
quite different, yet all are similar in that they are largely or completely run by disabled
persons themselves, or by their families. Although they all work closely with the local
community, each has a small ‘center’ of some kind where disabled persons or their
families can help meet each other’s needs.
We do not claim that the examples given here are the most outstanding or successful
programs. Rather, they are the ones with which we are personally most familiar.
Our description of each program must be brief. We will, therefore, try to focus on their
most interesting and original features, especially those that could serve as examples
for other programs. Also, we describe how these have grown and spread to new
communities. This kind of grassroots seeding from community to community, although
slower and less orderly, may be more effective than is ‘planting’ of pre-designed
programs from on top.
1. PROJIMO-RURAL MEXICO
Project PROJIMO is a rural rehabilitation
program in western Mexico, run by disabled
villagers, to serve disabled children and their
families. It was started in 1982 by disabled village
health workers from an older community-based
health program (Project Piaxtla).
PROJIMO’s goal is to help disabled children
and their families become more self-reliant. It
aims to provide low-cost, high-quality services to
poor families who cannot obtain or afford services
elsewhere.
The PROJIMO team provides a wide range of
rehabilitation activities and equipment. These
include: family counseling and training, therapy,
work and skills training, brace making, artificial
limbs, wheelchair making, special seating, and
therapeutic aids.
PROJIMO is based in one small village
but serves children and their families from
neighboring towns and villages, and even from
the closest cities (over 100 miles away). Local
villagers cooperate by taking visiting disabled
children and their families into their homes.
Schoolchildren help make the playground-for-
all-children and toys for disabled children.
Part of PROJIMO team