Special Hope Network

Being a parent of a child with autism can feel very lonely and isolating. Here are 3 practical ways you can support families in your community:

📚Educate yourself
Learn more about autism and the characteristics and capabilities of those on the spectrum. Because every individual with autism is different, take the time to learn about their own unique strengths, areas of need, likes and dislikes.

👋🏾Offer help
Provide a meal, offer to buy groceries, or drive them somewhere they need to go. If you are a grandparent, offer to help with household chores, take your grandchild to therapies, or babysit other children in the family. Every family has unique needs so the best way to find out how you can help is to ask.

❤️Provide emotional support
Listen attentively, without judgment. Let the parent know that you care about them and are there to listen without giving unsolicited advice.

Together we can make a difference and create a world for all children, regardless of ability!

⭐️ Staff Spotlight ⭐️

This week, we’re highlighting Mwandu Milimo, a Social Worker at one of our Community Care Centers.

Mwandu faithfully cares for the children and families we serve, often going beyond her daily responsibilities. She visits children in the hospital and comes alongside caregivers during some of their most difficult moments, offering steady support and encouragement.

She may serve quietly, but her impact is deeply felt. Mwandu reflects our value of Faith Active—living out compassion, presence, and care in every situation.

(Swipe to the end to see the special visitors we had 👀)

Just a few highlights from our International Women’s Day Run. Thank you Lilayi Lodge for hosting us and thank you to Fitness with Fiks for partnering with us! All the proceeds were generously donated to Special Hope Network.

What a wonderful way to celebrate Women’s Day, and make an impact together!

Today we celebrate Youth Day in Zambia and the incredible potential of young people across the nation.

At Special Hope Network, that celebration includes children and young people with intellectual disabilities. We believe that every child deserves to be seen, valued, and included in the life of their community.

These young people, pictured here from last year’s Night to Shine celebration, remind us that youth with disabilities are worth celebrating!

YouthDayZambia

“Writes Own Name” is one of the meaningful goals that children at our Community Care Centers work toward. Learning to write their name independently builds confidence, communication skills, and a strong sense of identity.

In these photos, proud mom, Brenda supports her son Aaron as he practices this important milestone. The joy on her face says it all—watching her child learn and master new skills is priceless!

Thank you for making moments like these possible!