Who we are
A community built on dignity, rights, and the belief that every person is valuable — whatever their ability.
Our story
Arise and Shine works alongside children and adults with disabilities across Thanthonimalai and Krishnarayapuram blocks in Karur district, Tamil Nadu. What began as a response to families who had nowhere to turn for therapy, schooling, or simple guidance has grown into a community-based organisation that combines health, education, social and livelihood support under one roof — and, just as importantly, inside the homes and villages where our families live.
Vision
Persons with disabilities are empowered to live and thrive in an inclusive community that respects diversity and human rights.
Mission
Arise and Shine is committed to enhancing the quality of life of persons with disabilities (PWD) and their families.
Our principles
Where we put our energy
What guides our work
The capacity of persons with disabilities — including the evolving capacity of children with disabilities — and their right to make decisions.
The right of persons with disabilities to celebrate their identity.
Working together as families, staff and community members toward shared goals.
The spirit and positive attitude we bring to our work each day.
How we work
No two children who come to Arise and Shine have exactly the same needs, so our approach starts with listening — to the child, to their parents, and to the community around them. A first visit usually begins with an assessment by our therapy and education team, who look at physical, cognitive, speech and social development together rather than in isolation. From there, families are guided toward the mix of services that fits them, whether that's regular therapy sessions at our centre, a place in an inclusive or special school, home-based training for parents, or vocational preparation for older youth and adults.
We also believe change has to happen beyond our four walls. Our staff make home visits, run awareness sessions in surrounding villages, and involve local schools, health workers and government offices so that the responsibility for inclusion is shared across the community — not carried by one family alone. Progress is tracked through regular follow-ups, and successes are celebrated together, from a child's first independent steps to a young adult's first day at a vocational placement.
Take a look at the programs that carry our mission into homes, schools and communities every day.
