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| IDEP Partner > Local > Senang Hati (Happy Hearts) Foundation |
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| About Senang Hati (Happy Hearts) Foundation |
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| Many Balinese with disabilities still live in relative isolation due to cultural attitudes towards their condition. Disabilities are often viewed as karmic punishment or a result of black magic. Embarrassment, shame and a lack of understanding concerning disability often prevent people from pursuing treatment or finding ways to live happy and fulfilling lives.
In early 2002 a group of foreign volunteers helped to organise outings for Balinese people with disabilities to places of interest around Bali. For many, this was the first time they had been out of their villages and mixed with other people with similar challenges. By 2003, the group decided to call themselves Senang Hati and actively reached out to include new members. By May 2003 the group had become a legally registered foundation with a managing committee made up entirely of Balinese with disabilities. Since then the range of activities has grown as has membership and resources. In June 2003, Glen Adams an American businessman donated the lease on an disused school in Tampak Siring to be used by Senang Hati as its centre. This now houses a gallery, a class room, arts and crafts room, a physiotherapy facility, dorms and a computer training room.
Since the establishment of Senang Hati, the lives of its members have changed radically. Obtaining a wheelchair has enabled many to leave their homes for the first time. They are learning to use computers, getting government and private sector jobs, selling their artwork and traveling abroad. Most important, they are learning to interact socially with each others and the outside world while gaining new confidence about themselves and their skills.
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| Senang Hati’s Mission Statement |
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Working cooperatively with related organizations, Senang Hati hopes to raise the self-confidence of people with disabilities and encourage social, economic and physical independence
and integration.
Senang Hati’s vision is to help the disabled of Bali participate more fully in the community, thus bringing about a shift from current negative community attitudes. Integration is the greatest challenge.
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| About the Foundation’s Programs |
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| Senang Hati provides a safe environment where people with disabilities can meet others and gradually gain the confidence to learn new skills and move confidently in the greater world. Physiotherapy and donated wheelchairs enhance their mobility and training gives them self-assurance.
We are trying to address social, economic, cultural, educational, physical and creative needs through a broad range of activities, including :
Trainings - Computer Courses, English and Literacy Courses, First Aid Training, Leadership Training, Assertiveness Training, Arts and Crafts Skills, Hearing Aid Mould Manufacturing.
Physical Programs - Swimming and aqua therapy, Physiotherapy and Exercise, Dance.
Cultural Activities - Temple and Ceremony Visits, Gallery and Exhibition Openings, Poetry Reading, Excursions.
Come visit the Senang Hati Center at Jalan Sasi Brata, Br. Tengah, Tampaksiring, Gianyar, Bali. See a showcase of Senang Hati Artwork and craftes at the Bali Cares Store, Jalan Raya Hanoman No.42, Ubud, Bali.
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| How you can support the foundation’s activities |
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| Senang Hati’s work is entirely funded by donations received from generous groups and individuals. If you are interested in making a donation to Senang Hati please use the account number provided below - Thank you |
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Bank BCA - Ubud
Account name : Ni Putu Suriati
Account No. : 135 020 2613
Swift Code : CENA IDJA |
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| For more information : contact senang_senanghati@yahoo.com. |
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