Returning to Reflect

How wonderful to be back in Ecuador, soaking in the Andean sun. I spent the day reflecting on the past three years. The CITTI Project has grown in so many ways. We have expanded our knowledge, determined our focus and strengthened our collaborations. Together with local teachers, parents, therapists, and individuals with disabilities we have impacted the lives of people with disabilities within the Tungurahua region.

There are wonderful stories that express the essence of what we have accomplished. There are stories of Santiago eating more independently, Carlos transferring himself out of his wheelchair, teachers making accessible learning materials for their classrooms, and so many more. While the CITTI Project thrives on the personal anecdotes, we are now ready to quantify and qualify our efforts. We are here to evaluate our work, measure our progress, and learn from our endeavors.

The CITTI Project 2008 team is convening here in Quito to begin our journey. We will be traveling south to Ambato, where we will be joined by community leaders and members of organizations we have befriended over the past few years. Asoplejicat, an independent living center, supports adults with disabilities to thrive. Institute Especial de Education has invited teachers from throughout the region to reap the benefits of what we have shared for there students with disabilities. In the rural town of Huambalo, we will once again be embraced by the Fundación de San José, de Huambalo, a school started by parents for the benefit of their children with disabilities.

What have they done with their new knowledge and skills? How many adaptations have they replicated, or created new? Has anyone shared their skill with others? Has the CITTI Project made strides towards our mission?

So many questions, so little time! Check back to learn what we learn from this process.