24 Trip Experience Leaders from different Nordic countries and 3 GCT/OAT office managers recently spent several hours at the organization learning about this movement and making candles.

The Association provides day‑care services for adults with severe or profound mental and functional disorders. Their program focuses on meaningful daily activities, strengthening self‑care abilities, fostering communication and social interaction, developing cognitive and social skills and offering psychosocial and individualized social support. Families are involved at every step, creating a truly connected and inclusive support system. The center also collaborates closely with municipal and state institutions, non‑governmental organizations, and provides consultations to relatives. Up to 20 people receive these services each day.

The Latvian Movement for Independent Living began in 2006 as a group working toward a new vision for disability support in Latvia, and in 2009 it officially became an association. Since then, their work has been centered on empowering people to live with dignity, autonomy, and access to the services they deserve.

During our visit, we were welcomed into their daily activities and experienced each step of the candle‑making process alongside them. They even created their own candles. An experience that made the mission feel even more personal and deeply moving. Witnessing the joy, pride, and dedication of everyone involved reminded us how impactful this movement truly is, not only for the individuals they support but for the entire community around them.

 

Craig Waith,

Regional General Manager

Scandinavia & the Baltics