Marking World Autism Awareness Day, House of Hope Foundation Holds Inclusive Morning Run
The commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day took place in Bandung on Thursday (2/4). The social foundation House of Hope initiated a morning run with individuals with special needs, centred at Gasibu Field.
The event began with participants gathering at the House of Hope office located at Jalan Pasirluyu Barat No 60, Bandung City. All participants then proceeded together to Gasibu.
With great enthusiasm, the participants, consisting of 14 individuals with special needs and 7 companions, joined the morning run, followed by various interactive group games.
Participants were divided into several groups to encourage more active and inclusive interaction. A warm and joyful atmosphere prevailed throughout the event, especially with appreciation given to teams that successfully completed challenges well.
This activity serves as a tangible symbol that inclusive spaces need not only to be discussed but also to be present in everyday life.
Various activities such as coordination games and balance challenges were designed not merely as entertainment but also as a means to train social skills, teamwork, and to boost participants’ confidence.
More than just physical activity, this event provides a space for participants to feel accepted, valued, and part of the community.
Bridge to the Working World
House of Hope is a foundation established by Irene Ridjab three years ago, focusing on serving as a bridge to the working world for individuals with special needs aged 18 and above, with the aim of helping them become independent and have personal income.
Not only that, House of Hope was born out of concern for the limited opportunities for individuals with special needs after entering adulthood.
“We believe every individual has equal potential and dignity. What is needed is opportunity, a supportive environment, and trust,” said Irene.
This momentum of World Autism Awareness Day serves as a reminder that inclusion is not just about providing space but also about opening opportunities and building understanding in society.
Through this event, House of Hope aims to invite the public to look more closely at the extraordinary potential possessed by individuals with special needs, while encouraging the creation of a more inclusive, supportive, and empathetic environment.
“We hope that simple activities like this can become the beginning of greater change. Every individual, without exception, has the opportunity to grow, work, and live meaningfully,” emphasised Irene Ridjab.