Padres E Hijos En Accion envisions a world in which all Latino children with disabilities can enhance their quality of life and expand their participation in the community. Padres achieve their goals by engaging children and families in activities not previously available to them, including cooking, gardening, biking, and rock climbing. These activities are important to children with disabilities because they are instrumental in developing communication skills, building independence, and improving fine motor skills.
“The gardening program provides benefits that are not available in a classroom setting. We have found that gardening enhances creativity, improves self-confidence, and reduces stress, anxiety, and frustration in these children,” notes Hector Portillo, lead organizer for Padres.
In addition to providing these opportunities to Latino children with disabilities, Padres also supports families with advocacy assistance and help in navigating a complex health system and disability resources. Many of the families served by Padres are Spanish-speaking, so translation services are also included.
Another premier event for Padres E Hijos En Accion is their annual Christmas party. According to Hector, “The goal of this event is to give these children a day they will never forget. At the 2018 party, over 300 guests attended, and we were able to give away over 200 gifts.”
The Game Changer Grant will assist Padres so they can continue providing these services to children and their families in Dane County.
Felicidades Padres E Hijos En Accion!
