China and India Partner with Heartspring

In 2005, Heartspring entered its first sister organization agreement with the Stars and Rain Education Institute for Autism in Beijing, China. The agreement offers the opportunity for additional support through a cultural and informational exchange between Heartspring staff and the teachers at Stars and Rain.

Earlier this month four members of the Heartspring family, including Connie Coulter; autism specialist, Lindsay Randle; speech language pathologist, Gary Singleton, CEO; and Jim Wong, Chairman of the Board of Trustees; traveled to China to share ideas and resources as well as provide on-site training at Stars and Rain. As World Autism Day neared, cameras from CNN followed them into the classroom to record as they collaborated toexchange ideas to treat children with special needs. Today April 1, Heartspring's involvement is the lead story on CNN.com.

Heartspring has also formed a partnership with the Open Door School at Action for Autism (AFA) in New Delhi India. Early last year, three Heartspring executives traveled to India to collaborate with AFA founder Merry Barua, 2007 winner of the Heartspring Award for Innovation and Creativity. The team shared ideas on how to further special education at Barua's School.

Heartspring has a long history of reaching out to children and professionals across this country and around the world. Through the World Reach program, we have been able to touch the lives of many in other countries such as Malawi, Myanmar, Romania and Croatia. Our goal is to provide support and recognition to our partners around the globe, while we strengthen our vision of improving the quality of life for children with special needs anywhere they may be found. Together we strive to give every child a chance, today and tomorrow, here and around the world.