About Us

The Center for the Development of People with Disabilities (CDPD) is a Christian organization that helps children and youth with disabilities and their families in the areas of therapy, special education, preparation for and promotion of education for children with special needs, vocational training, income generation, and community awareness through teaching and radio programs. We provide care regardless of gender, nationality, beliefs or religion. Our main objective is to develop the potential of children and youth with disabilities so that they may live independently.

Aware of the importance of medical assistance and the special needs regarding education for children and youth with disabilities, CDPD was established in 2001 in cooperation with the Thailand Karen Baptist Convention. The center is located in the district of Maesariang in Maehongson Province; a province which is located in northwest Thailand. A particular need was seen for ethnic minority groups who often live in isolated areas far from towns and cities where services are available.

CDPD employs professionals in several fields who are familiar with the language, culture and social context of the ethnic minority groups. This enables the staff to regularly visit people with disabilities in their communities in a manner that has value for those being visited. CDPD responds to the needs of children and youth with disabilities for rehabilitation and education.

CDPD receives regular funding from the Finland Swedish Baptist Union and International Ministries of the American Baptist Churches, USA. CDPD has also received funding for equipment from the Japanese Embassy and support from the local Thai government.