Approval for grant workshop

How a Small Grant Sparked Big Change

The Disabled Unity Society, an organization founded by Dalit individuals with disabilities, was on the brink of closure. Located in Gurvakot Municipality, Surkhet District, the organization struggled to stay active due to a lack of resources. Without proper facilities or financial support, their ability to advocate for disability rights was limited.

But that changed when they received support from the “Include Us” project, a collaboration between the National Federation of the Disabled Nepal (NFDN) and CBM Global. This initiative provided crucial institutional capacity-building, enabling the society to reorganize and resume its mission.

“Before, we had no proper workspace, no access to technology. Now, we can actually work for the change we want to see,” says a society representative.

With a grant of NPR 298,000, the organization procured computer tables, chairs, and internet access. However, challenges remained, such as the lack of a printer and storage cabinets. Recognizing this need, the municipality stepped in, providing the missing equipment in November 2022.

A little support can create a big impact. The Disabled Unity Society now has an office and resources to push for disability rights.

This grant didn’t just equip an office; it revived a movement. The Disabled Unity Society began actively advocating for better education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. They also facilitated the issuance of disability identification cards, a key step toward securing government support.

In April 2023, their advocacy reached new heights when they secured a permanent office space in Ward No. 4, after months of negotiation with local authorities. With a dedicated space and internal resources, they even hired a person with a disability to support operations. Their perseverance paid off again when Gurvakot Municipality allocated NPR 1.025 million for disability-related programs in the fiscal year 2080/81.

This progress highlights the power of grassroots advocacy. The society continues to work towards greater inclusion, proving that a small grant and sustained effort can drive lasting change.