August 29th 
Handover ceremony with Autism House in Bandung.
We have always tried to look for projects that involve children, and in-particular children with disabilities. The Autism House is part of a organization that operates 9 branches throughout Java with a focus on helping children with autism, ADHD, ADD, downs syndrome and cerebral palsy. Often these children are left at home with no organized program to help, especially those who are poor. This facility focuses on helping those who cannot afford specialized education by providing  physical, speech and occupational therapy as well as a classroom center for learning, and facilities to help teach these children skills that can assist them towards greater independence.

 When we first met with the autism center in Bandung in May they were just opening this brand new building.

 

Juju, the director, in blue skirt, and Fifi, finance director of the Autism House. Wonderful women devoted to helping these children. Over the past few months we have had several opportunities to work with them, organize and even shop together. They are special people that we love and respect and will always remember.

 The church provided desks, chairs, many types of balls and games that can help the children learn and develop different skills in motor, speech and social areas.

Sister Lucherini really enjoyed checking out all the different toys that were on the list. Much better than buying furniture!

 For many of the materials we went with FIFI shopping. Sister Lucherini loved it, Elder Lucherini was glad when we were done.

Fifi with her son Salman trying out some of the new therapy equipment

 

 

 The children didn't waste any time enjoying the puzzles, blocks and other toys!

                                 Parents and friends gathering for the handover ceremony on August 29th. By the time the program began the place was overflowing.

 Ekaya Ulianty. The Autism House Bandung , branch manager. Thanking the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for these wonderful gifts that will help the center and school accomplish their goals of providing a place for learning and development

 Bro Edi, 1st counselor in the Bandung Branch Presidency. Letting the people know where humanitarian funds from the church come from, what is their  purpose and why we do this in our church. And that we do not expect anything in return other than a hope that these resources can be used to help these children and make their lives better.

 Some of the children performing for the audience. From left to right: Kiki, Jeffrey, Kevin, Ian, and Evan.

 

                                                                  Ian and Evan

 Juju's son, Abraham (nicknamed Ebay) reading a poem. It was about what makes him different, and how he sees the world from his point of view. It was wonderful!!!

 The official handover with Ekay, branch manager and Mr Nelwansyah, executive director for Autism House Indonesia. They used a sample of what we donated, they said the donation fills up a whole room, there is so much.

 Nelwansyah giving the church a certificate of appreciation for the donations. This will hang in the service center in Jakarta.

 Juju thanking the church for the many donations. She said when they first started the autism house here in Bandung they had nothing but a new building. They now have the equipment and materials they need to help many children in many ways. Thank you so much.

 Children and parents playing anklings. A special musical instrument from Indonesia. They sang the Indonesian national anthem, "Indonesia Pusaka."  Oh that we had a videotape. It was beautiful.

                                  Singing along with their conductor and music teacher, Ada.

 

                                                          Juju and her son Abraham

 

 

                                                         How about some dancing.

                                                              

             Juju said, "I have only known you for a few months but I feel like you are my sister."
Sister Lucherini said, "My heart is full. I love these children. I know that God loves them. And he has made it our responsibility to take care of them. If we do we are blessed. Then they sang the Indonesian song, "You are my brother, you are my sister."

Picture with the leaders and teachers of the Bandung Autism House.

It has been another wonderful experience. We left with our hearts full knowing that these gifts will be cherished and the children  and their families will be enriched because of them. We are grateful for our mission, the opportunity to serve in such a wonderful country with so many wonderful people. And to be serving the Savior.