Barenbrug Brazil helping at APAE - Guaíra

Meet the Association of Parents and Friends of the Mentally Handicapped, founded in 1976 and currently led by President Edvar Garcia de Paula and Vice President Washington Luis de Campos (2023/2025). With a mission to defend rights, provide guidance, and support families, the organization aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, focusing on intellectual, multiple, and autism spectrum disorders. Offering services in Health, Social Assistance, and Education, the Association annually assists 151 individuals aged 0 to 60, operating from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm with daily meals provided. Join us in recognizing their impactful work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Our goal was to support APAE in enhancing their educational activities by creating opportunities for cognitive development through the installation of a sensory garden. This garden is designed to promote leisure and well-being, offering a space that engages all five senses. By interacting with various textures, sounds, smells, tastes, and visual elements, individuals can reconnect with nature, fostering improved social and environmental relationships.

This initiative aligns with Goal #3 (Good Health and Well-Being) of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, adopted by Barenbrug Group, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. The sensory garden embodies this commitment, creating a space that supports health and holistic development.

The execution

In total, 27 Barenbrug volunteers built the garden doing different activities, with 472 total worked hours, an equivalent of 59 working days.