Through its services, advocacy, and direct work with families, Handikos Suharekë is committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities live with dignity and participate equally in society.
Handikos Suharekë began its work in 2000 as a branch of Handikos Prishtina and was registered as an independent non-governmental organization in 2014. Since its establishment, the organization has worked to empower persons with disabilities and create opportunities for their inclusion in education, employment, cultural life, and decision-making processes that affect their well-being.
Through training, advocacy, and awareness-raising, Handikos Suharekë works with persons with disabilities, their families, institutions, and the wider community. The organization is committed to protecting human rights, with particular attention to the rights of women and children.
Handikos Suharekë has around 640 registered members. A team of eight employees supports its work, bringing many years of experience in providing services and supporting persons with disabilities.
The services provided by Handikos Suharekë include psychological and psychosocial support, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, providing assistive devices, and transportation for children. Support is tailored to the individual needs of beneficiaries and aims to develop their skills, increase their independence, and improve their well-being.
An important part of the organization’s work is early intervention for children from birth to six years of age. Through professional support and cooperation with families, Handikos Suharekë aims to ensure that children’s developmental needs are identified and addressed as early as possible.
The organization also provides health, residential, and family support for persons with disabilities. Through counselling and individual and group support, it also works with families and caregivers, who play a crucial role in the well-being and development of children and adults.
In addition to professional services, Handikos Suharekë organizes sports and cultural activities. These activities create opportunities for socialization, talent development, and greater participation in the community, while helping to challenge the prejudice and isolation that persons with disabilities continue to face.
“Because of our work, families are bringing their children out of the house and involving them in activities. When we go out for walks, the children are very happy, but so are the mothers, who also need support,” said Gashi.
Advocacy remains an essential part of the organization’s work. Handikos Suharekë advocates for improved access to infrastructure and public services, greater inclusion in education, and more employment opportunities. The organization also calls for more sustainable institutional support to ensure the continuation and improvement of its services.
“Although financial support is not at the level we need, we are fortunate to live in a city with exceptionally supportive and caring people. Thanks to a private donor, our premises were rebuilt and fully equipped, and we also have very good cooperation with the Municipality, within its capacity,” said Gashi.
Working with women and girls with disabilities is particularly important, as they may face barriers related to both gender and disability. Through its activities and advocacy, Handikos Suharekë aims to ensure that their needs and experiences are reflected in services and decision-making processes.
During a meeting with Suzana Gashi from Handikos Suharekë, the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN) discussed the organization’s work and achievements, the services it provides, the barriers faced by persons with disabilities, and opportunities for continued cooperation.
As a KWN member since 2023, Handikos Suharekë has exchanged experiences with other member organizations and contributed to joint initiatives aimed at furthering women’s rights and promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
KWN will continue to cooperate with Handikos Suharekë and other member organizations, supporting their efforts to build an inclusive society in which persons with disabilities can fully exercise their rights and realize their potential.
You can learn more about the work and activities of Handikos Suharekë on its Facebook page.
