Time and Knowledge Nazrana

The SKIP program in Edmonton, Canada resides under the supportive umbrella of the Social Welfare Board.  Why supportive you may ask?  The Special Kin Inspiration Program, otherwise known as SKIP seeks to provide support to members of the Jamat who have mental, physical and/or developmental disabilities.  By reaching out to individuals with Cerebral Palsy, Down syndrome, Autism and other challenges, SKIP is seeking to support the reestablishment of connections between these individuals and the community.  

 

According to Salima Thawer, member on the Social Welfare Board leading SKIP, it is so very important that “these individuals find a sense of belonging” and this she says is nurtured when their participation is facilitated.  She cites examples such as providing a buddy to SKIP individuals who are members of IVC or allowing SKIP individuals to participate in Youth and Sports Board events by timekeeping and keeping score since most cannot participate athletically.

 

The reality Thawer says matter-of-factly, is that families have an innumerable number of hurdles to cross, many times leading to disappointments.  Nimet Rajan, a TKN volunteer with SKIP since February 2013 echoes these sentiments. This is a “very emotional assignment for me.  I wanted to take care of all their troubles”.  Rajan, a Jamati Kamdiasaheba during the Golden Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam realizes all too well the immense importance of ensuring all members of the Jamat, regardless of their specific needs and background feel welcomed.  “After joining SKIP, I have a new perspective” Rajan says,  “I want these individuals to feel included and integrated with systems in place that enable them to get help as soon as they need it”.  After all, Rajan reflects, looking after each other, isn’t that what it is all about?

 

Ultimately the program intends to create awareness in the Jamat, collaborate with Boards and Portfolios, create a family support network and work towards alleviating the stigma often faced by SKIP individuals and their families.  This however requires the commitment and enthusiasm of TKN volunteers who ideally have a background in special needs and/or healthcare and who can serve as mentors.

 

When asked about her dream for SKIP, Salima Thawer, a dedicated leader dreams big.  “Long term inclusiveness is so important for those with disability.  The sense should be there that I can go and participate with the Jamat, that I have a network of support”. With the contribution of TKN volunteers, SKIP has the potential to evolve into such a program and protect vulnerable members of our Jamat from feeling they don’t belong.