The Autism and Disability Inclusion for Progress (ADIP) Initiative is a community-based organization in Mathare, Nairobi, working with families, children, and local partners to create safe spaces for learning, play, and growth. We support children through structured activities, caregiver support, and community inclusion programmes that help every child be seen, heard, and valued.
Together, We Can Give Every Child with Autism and Disabilities the Opportunity to Learn, Grow, and Thrive. Your Support Makes It Possible.
Every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive with dignity. At ADIP Initiative, we walk alongside children with autism and disabilities — and their families — through a journey of support, learning, and belonging. We are a community-based organisation rooted in Mathare, building hope where it is needed most. We are building inclusion from the ground up in Mathare — and we cannot do it alone.
Helping families understand their child early and confidently take the first steps of support through simple, practical guidance and personalised pathways.
A safe, welcoming space where children learn through play, build communication, daily living skills, and confidence in a caring environment.
Supporting caregivers through coaching, peer support groups, and small livelihood pathways that help families grow stronger and more stable.
Working with schools and teachers to build understanding, acceptance, and inclusive learning spaces where every child can belong and fully participate.
Guidance, support, and hope for families navigating autism and disability.
Identifying needs early and beginning personalised intervention.
Building awareness and inclusion practices for teachers and learners.
A safe space for children to learn, play, and grow.
"When ADIP distributed school uniforms, it restored our children’s confidence and kept them in class."
"Their awareness event completely opened our eyes on how to support special-needs children instead of isolating them."
"They are building a protective, informed, and welcoming environment for vulnerable children."
Autism and Disability Inclusion for Progress (ADIP) Initiative is a registered Community-Based Organization (CBO) in Kenya committed to creating an inclusive society where individuals with autism and other disabilities are valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their full potential.
We believe that every individual deserves equal opportunities to learn, grow, participate, and thrive regardless of their abilities. Guided by compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to inclusion, we work alongside families, communities, schools, professionals, and development partners to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities.
Through advocacy, awareness, family support, capacity building, and community-based programmes, we promote understanding, reduce stigma, and create environments where every person can participate fully and with dignity.
ADIP Initiative was founded in response to the growing need for quality support, accurate information, and inclusive opportunities for individuals with autism and other disabilities. Many families face barriers in accessing services, navigating education systems, and finding supportive communities.
Driven by a passion for making a meaningful difference, ADIP Initiative was established to bridge these gaps by empowering families, strengthening communities, advocating for disability rights, and providing access to professional support through our programmes and the ADIP Child Development Centre.
Today, we continue to work towards building communities where inclusion is not an exception but a way of life.
Lucas Otieno Odoyo, grounded in lived community experience and a passion for inclusion, founded ADIP Initiative to bridge the gaps families face in accessing services, navigating education systems, and finding supportive communities.
“Change does not always begin in large institutions — it begins in communities like Mathare, with families, caregivers, and local leaders working together.”
A world where every person with autism and other disabilities is empowered, included, and given equal opportunities to live, learn, and thrive.
To promote inclusion, empowerment, and equal opportunities for individuals with autism and other disabilities through advocacy, education, professional support services, community engagement, and strategic partnerships.
Inclusion, Respect and Dignity, Compassion, Integrity, Accountability, Empowerment, Collaboration, Professionalism, Innovation, and Excellence.
At ADIP Initiative, our greatest strength is our people. We are a diverse team of leaders, practitioners, professionals, collaborators, and volunteers united by a shared commitment to improving the lives of children with autism and disabilities.
Our team combines professional expertise, lived experience, and community-driven solutions to deliver quality, family-centred services. Together, we work to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, participate, and reach their full potential.
Our Leadership Team provides strategic direction, governance, and organisational oversight, ensuring that ADIP Initiative remains accountable, sustainable, and focused on its mission.
Lucas Otieno Odoyo is the Founder and CEO of ADIP Initiative and the driving force behind its vision of creating inclusive opportunities for children with autism and disabilities.
He is an Autism Intervention Practitioner with training in Special Education, specializing in neurological conditions and physical disabilities. Through his knowledge and hands-on experience, Lucas is committed to supporting children and empowering families with practical, compassionate, and child-centred interventions.
As the mastermind behind ADIP Initiative, he leads the organisation’s mission to provide quality early intervention, learning, play, caregiver support, and community inclusion, ensuring that every child is given the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Denish Odhiambo serves as the Administration & Coordination Officer at ADIP Initiative, where he oversees the organisation’s administrative operations and coordinates programmes and day-to-day activities to ensure they run smoothly and effectively.
With skills in technology and management, Denish plays a key role in strengthening the organisation’s systems and supporting efficient service delivery. He is also a passionate disability advocate, committed to promoting inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities for people with disabilities within the community.
Our Operations Team leads the day-to-day implementation of programmes and services, working closely with children, families, schools, and the community to ensure quality support and meaningful impact.
Kezzy Atieno serves as the Volunteer Coordinator at ADIP Initiative, where she leads volunteer engagement, coordination, and support to ensure volunteers are equipped to make a meaningful impact in the community.
She is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences at the University of Nairobi. Passionate about community development and social impact, Kezzy is dedicated to empowering communities through service, inclusion, and advocacy. Her commitment to supporting children, families, and volunteers plays an important role in advancing ADIP Initiative’s mission.
Adonijah Omondi serves as the Documentation & Data Officer at ADIP Initiative, where he manages programme documentation, records, and data to support effective planning, monitoring, and organisational learning.
A skilled mathematician with a keen eye for detail, Adonijah helps ensure that information is accurately captured and used to strengthen the organisation’s impact. He is also a passionate advocate for children with autism and disabilities, promoting inclusive spaces and greater community awareness to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Zacharia Ontita Omwoyo is a cybersecurity professional serving as the Partnerships & Outreach Officer at ADIP Initiative. He is responsible for building and strengthening partnerships with organisations, institutions, supporters, and community stakeholders to advance the organisation’s mission and expand its impact.
Passionate about inclusion and community development, Zacharia is committed to creating opportunities for children with autism and disabilities to thrive. Through partnership development, strategic outreach, and advocacy, he helps connect ADIP Initiative with individuals and organisations that share our vision of building a more inclusive society where every child can reach their full potential.
Abisalom Ouma serves as the Media & Communication Officer at ADIP Initiative, leading the organisation’s communication and digital engagement efforts. He is responsible for creating and sharing content that raises awareness, highlights the impact of our programmes, and strengthens our connection with families, partners, donors, and the wider community.
He is also a passionate autism advocate, committed to promoting inclusion, challenging stigma, and increasing public understanding of autism. Through creative storytelling, advocacy, and strategic communication, Abisalom helps amplify the voices of children with autism and disabilities while advancing the mission of ADIP Initiative.
Catherine Wangechi King’ori is the Programs Delivery Lead at ADIP Initiative. She oversees programme planning, coordinates daily activities, supports programme implementation, and works with the team to ensure children with autism and other disabilities receive quality learning, play, and caregiver support services.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Needs Education and has hands-on experience working with children with disabilities through her volunteer service with Lions Club International since 2023. Catherine is also an ALX-certified Virtual Assistant and is currently training as an AI-powered Legal Virtual Assistant.
Her passion for inclusion, strong organisational skills, and commitment to community service help strengthen ADIP Initiative’s programmes for children and families in Mathare, Nairobi.
We work alongside experienced professionals and trusted collaborators who provide specialised knowledge, technical expertise, and multidisciplinary support, strengthening the quality of our programmes and services.
Yafit is an International Advisor at ADIP Initiative, bringing deep expertise at the intersection of neurodiversity, assistive technology, and commercial growth strategy. As the mother of an autistic son, she also contributes valuable lived experience that strengthens our commitment to inclusive, innovative, and family-centered solutions.
Her insight and leadership help guide our work as we support families, partners, and communities.
Agnes Kweyu is a Mental Health & Psychosocial Support Practitioner and a Professional Associate & Collaborator with ADIP Initiative. She supports the organisation’s mission by promoting the mental well-being of children, caregivers, and families through compassionate, evidence-informed care.
Working alongside the ADIP Initiative team, Agnes provides professional guidance and psychosocial support that strengthens family-centred services and community well-being. Her expertise contributes to a holistic approach to care, ensuring that the emotional and psychological needs of children and their families are recognised and supported as part of their overall development and inclusion.
Our volunteers are an important part of ADIP Initiative. Through their time, skills, and dedication, they support our programmes, community outreach, events, and awareness activities, helping us extend our impact to more children and families.
Shirley Valarie Achieng is a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from St. Paul’s University. She has actively participated in community initiatives, including environmental conservation, children’s home visits, hospital outreach, and other community development activities.
As an Autism Awareness Volunteer at ADIP Initiative, Shirley Valarie Achieng is passionate about supporting children with autism, persons with disabilities, and their families. She believes that everyone deserves love, inclusion, and equal opportunities to reach their full potential. She is committed to giving hope, promoting acceptance, and making a positive impact in the community through compassion and service.
At ADIP Initiative, we champion disability inclusion through advocacy, public awareness, family empowerment, professional support, community engagement, and strategic partnerships. We also provide specialised developmental and therapeutic services through the ADIP Child Development Centre to support children and their families. Our programmes are designed to strengthen families, build inclusive communities, promote equal opportunities, and improve the overall well-being of individuals with autism and other disabilities.
Helping children with developmental differences build foundational learning, communication, and daily living skills.
Walking alongside parents with guidance, encouragement, and practical tools for everyday care and understanding.
Challenging stigma and increasing understanding of autism and disability within local communities and schools.
Working with teachers and learning spaces to improve acceptance, participation, and inclusion of children with disabilities.
A small, growing community space providing structured early support for children and families in need.
Together, we are creating a future where ability is recognised, diversity is celebrated, and every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
We are not a hospital or clinic. We are a safe, community-driven space where children are understood, supported, and given the opportunity to grow with dignity in real-life environments — at home, in school, and in the community.
We help families recognise early signs of developmental differences and better understand their child’s unique needs through simple, respectful, play-based engagement.
Every child learns differently. We design simple, personalised learning pathways that support gradual, meaningful progress.
We use structured play and daily routines to help children build confidence, independence, and social connection.
We walk with families because real change begins at home.
We work with schools and communities to build understanding, acceptance, and inclusive learning environments.
Grounded in community trust, built from grassroots action — and the targets driving our next phase of growth.
Grounded in community trust. Built from grassroots action. At ADIP Initiative, our impact has grown directly from community engagement in Mathare — reaching families who previously had little or no access to structured autism and disability support. Despite limited resources, we have built trust, awareness, and early intervention pathways within the community through consistent outreach and hands-on support.
We have reached and supported children showing developmental and autism-related needs through early identification, guidance, and referral pathways.
Families have been equipped with practical knowledge, helping them better understand their children and respond with confidence at home.
Through local engagement, we have reduced stigma and increased acceptance around autism and developmental disabilities.
We have begun conversations with local schools to encourage inclusion, understanding, and better support for learners with additional needs.
These achievements reflect not a facility, but a growing community movement for inclusion in Mathare.
SECTION B: OUR FUTURE GOALS
Phase 1 Targets (2026–2027)Building on the trust already established, ADIP Initiative is now transitioning into a structured, consistent, and scalable community-based inclusion hub in Mathare. Our next phase focuses on deepening impact, expanding reach, and strengthening systems that support children and families long-term.
These targets represent our goals for this phase of implementation. Progress will be updated as milestones are achieved.
With sustained support, ADIP Initiative will continue evolving from a grassroots outreach effort into a strong, trusted community-based inclusion hub — delivering dignity, consistency, and opportunity for children with autism and disabilities in Mathare.
Get InvolvedStructured play-based learning that builds communication, social interaction, and daily living skills.
Equipping parents and caregivers with tools, confidence, and ongoing support.
Working with schools to create safer, more understanding learning environments.
Expanding outreach across Mathare to promote acceptance, early identification, and community support.
Strengthening our centre into a reliable, child-friendly hub for consistent learning and development.
At ADIP Initiative, we use storytelling and digital content to share autism awareness, caregiver experiences, and community-based inclusion work from Mathare. Our blogs and awareness content are shared through our official social media platforms, where we actively document real-time community engagement, education, and advocacy around autism and disability inclusion.
We share simple and practical autism awareness information to help families and the wider community better understand autism and developmental differences.
We provide real-life guidance and tips for parents and caregivers based on daily experiences working with families in Mathare.
We document real stories, moments, and experiences from families and children we work with — showing progress, challenges, and hope.
We use digital storytelling to challenge stigma and promote inclusion in homes, schools, and the wider community.
Our educational content is shared through both ADIP Initiative and our founder, Lucas Otieno Odoyo, to reach more families and raise awareness about autism and developmental disabilities.
For children aged 18–36 months.
A guide to Kenya’s disability laws for parents, guardians, and educators.
Every person with a disability is entitled to access educational institutions integrated into society. Schools cannot refuse admission based on a diagnosis.
No person with a disability may be denied admission to a course of study if they have the ability to acquire its skills.
Mandates a shift from isolated special schools toward inclusive regular schools, with appropriate support structures.
Many families in underserved communities do not have access to formal autism education resources. Through these guides and our social media storytelling, we bridge this gap by making information accessible, relatable, and practical.
A simple introduction to autism and developmental differences.
Download PDF →Practical, everyday tools for caregivers supporting a child at home.
Download PDF →Simple play-based activities to build communication and connection.
Download PDF →Photos used here are placeholders. Per our Safeguarding Policy, no beneficiary photos are published without signed written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
Click a category above to filter photos below. Per our Safeguarding Policy, no beneficiary photos are published without signed written consent from a parent or legal guardian.
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Real stories from the families, educators, and community members who have experienced the impact of ADIP Initiative’s work.
"Buying school uniforms was a huge financial burden for my family. When ADIP Initiative provided uniforms for my children, it restored their confidence and allowed them to return to school with pride. Their support has made a lasting difference in our lives, and we are truly grateful."
"Before attending ADIP Initiative’s autism awareness event at the Salvation Army Church, I had many misconceptions about autism. The session helped me understand the early signs and taught me how to support and include children with autism instead of judging them. It completely changed my perspective."
"The work being done by ADIP Initiative is transforming our community. Through awareness, education, and practical support, they are helping build a more inclusive and welcoming environment for children with disabilities and their families. Their commitment is making a real and lasting impact."
We collaborate with faith-based institutions, corporate brands, and fellow non-profits to deliver impactful, transparent community projects.
Venue & Mobilization Partner
Providing venue space, logistics, and community access for our outreach campaigns.
Joint Community Outreaches
Collaborating on field initiatives like our Menstrual Hygiene Day campaigns.
Communication & Strategy Collaborator
Optimizing brand messaging so disability-inclusion narratives reach a wider audience.
Article 54 — statutory disability rights.
National legal protections against discrimination.
For learners and trainees with disabilities.
Every shilling goes directly toward sensory therapy, learning materials, and caregiver workshops, under strict financial transparency controls.
Every contribution helps us provide early support, inclusive learning opportunities, caregiver empowerment, and community programmes for children with autism, developmental delays, and other disabilities. Together, we can build a more inclusive future for every child.
Fast, secure, and convenient for donors in Kenya.
How to Donate
For grants, corporate sponsorships, and international donations.
If you are donating from outside Kenya, we would be delighted to assist you. Please email us at info@adipinitiative.org for our international bank transfer details and guidance on making your donation.
Partner with us to support programmes, sponsor activities, or provide resources for our Learning, Play & Caregiving Centre.
Donate learning materials, sensory toys, books, furniture, office supplies, technology, or other useful items that support children and families.
Share your skills to support children, families, and community programmes through education, administration, communications, fundraising, or community outreach.
Partner with us to strengthen inclusive programmes, empower caregivers, and create more opportunities for children and families.
Donate to help children with autism and their families access inclusive learning, play, caregiver support, and community programs in Mathare. Every contribution helps us create more opportunities for participation, growth, and inclusion.
Helps provide learning materials, creative activities, and inclusive play opportunities.
Supports daily learning sessions, child engagement activities, and family-centered programs.
Helps expand caregiver support, community outreach, and inclusion initiatives.
Provides broad support across all our programs, helping us reach more children and families and sustain our long-term impact.
Every donation is flexible and used where it is needed most to support our mission and the families we serve.
We are committed to using every donation responsibly and transparently. Your support helps children with autism and other disabilities access learning opportunities, play activities, caregiver support, and inclusive community programmes in Mathare, Nairobi.
Thank you for supporting ADIP Initiative and helping create a more inclusive future for every child.
ADIP Initiative is committed to operating with integrity. Below are our key policy documents that guide how we work, protect the people we serve, and manage our organisation responsibly.
Click on any document below to download a copy. If you have questions about our policies or how they apply, please contact us directly.
How ADIP Initiative is governed, including board structure, decision-making, and accountability frameworks.
Download PDF →Our commitment to protecting every child we work with from harm, abuse, and exploitation.
Download PDF →Standards of conduct, expectations, and responsibilities for all staff and volunteers at ADIP Initiative.
Download PDF →Guidelines for safe and respectful home visits conducted by our team and volunteers.
Download PDF →How we collect, store, use, and protect personal information in line with applicable data laws.
Download PDF →Procedures for reporting, recording, and responding to incidents within our programmes.
Download PDF →How staff, volunteers, and community members can safely raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
Download PDF →Our standards for financial accountability, budgeting, and responsible use of donor funds.
Download PDF →How we obtain and manage consent before using images or stories of the children and families we work with.
Download PDF →Here are some of the things families, community members, and partners ask us most. If you don't find what you're looking for, reach out — we're always happy to talk.
We support children with autism and other disabilities, especially those who benefit from extra support in learning, communication, play, and daily life. We also work closely with parents and caregivers.
Yes. You are welcome to visit us even if your child has not received a diagnosis. We will get to know your child, understand their strengths and challenges, and discuss how we can best support them.
We spend time getting to know your child through conversation, play, and simple activities. We also listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and recommend the most suitable support for your child and family.
We provide learning and play sessions, communication support, daily living skills training, behaviour support, caregiver guidance, and inclusive community programmes to help children reach their full potential.
Yes. We believe parents and caregivers are a child's greatest support. We offer guidance, practical tips, home-based activities, and opportunities to connect with other families.
Yes. We partner with schools to promote inclusion by sharing practical strategies, supporting teachers, and helping create welcoming learning environments for children with disabilities.
Every donation helps us provide quality services, learning materials, caregiver support, community programmes, and opportunities for children with autism and disabilities. We are committed to using donations responsibly and transparently.
Yes. Individuals, businesses, and organisations can sponsor a child, support a programme, donate learning materials, or partner with us to create more opportunities for children with autism and disabilities in our community.
Still have questions? We'd love to hear from you.
Contact UsWhether you’re a parent seeking an assessment, a school looking for teacher training, or a partner ready to sponsor a program — our team is here to help.
ADIP Initiative