Empowering abilities, strengthening families, and building inclusive communities
Karuna Battambang Organization transforms lives through inclusive growth, supporting vulnerable communities via education, healthcare, social support, empowering and protection, and sustainable agriculture and livelihoods.
SAMATHAPHEAP CHUNPIKAR PROJECT
Enhancing the Quality of Life of People with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism
KBO’s SAM Project works alongside children, adults, families, schools, communities, and local authorities to promote inclusion, dignity, independence, and meaningful participation for people with intellectual disabilities and autism. The project combines education, health, family support, livelihoods, community awareness, and stronger local systems.
🌟 Our Vision for Change
From exclusion → to inclusion
From dependence → to greater independence
From barriers → to opportunities
From vulnerability → to dignity and participation
About the Project
The SAM Project believes that every person has abilities, potential, and the right to participate fully in family and community life.
Through special and inclusive education, rehabilitation, healthcare, life skills, vocational training, family support, and community awareness, KBO works with families and local partners to create opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities and autism to become more independent and active members of society.
In the first half of 2026, 77 children with intellectual disabilities and autism entered inclusive public schools, while 92 children received physiotherapy and 339 people with disabilities accessed appropriate medical treatment and care.
The project also supported 201 adults with intellectual disabilities and autism with daily living skills, while three young adults received vocational training and began applying their skills in daily life.
“Inclusion begins when people are given the opportunity, support, and confidence to participate.”
🎯 Goal: To create appropriate conditions for people with intellectual disabilities and autism to enjoy a better quality of life, with greater participation in the social and economic life of their families and communities, while strengthening their self-esteem, dignity, and inclusion.
🤝 Mission: To empower people with intellectual disabilities and autism and their families through inclusive education, health and rehabilitation services, life and livelihood skills, and community participation—helping them live with greater independence, dignity, and inclusion.
🌱 Key Activities
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Special education and inclusive education
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Physiotherapy, healthcare and referrals
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Individual Development Plans and life-skills support
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Vocational and agricultural skills training
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Livelihood support for families
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Housing, WASH and emergency family support
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Disability awareness and community campaigns
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Parent and family engagement
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Strengthening local disability resource persons and technical working groups
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Promoting disability inclusion in commune planning
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Child safeguarding and protection awareness
👥 Who We Reach: During January–June 2026, the project reached 3,448 participants, exceeding the semester target of 2,999. This included: 1239 women, 1665 men, 328 boys, 216 girls. Among them, 573 were people living with disabilities, including 21 women, 8 men, 328 boys and 216 girls.
📍 Where We Work: The SAM Project operates in three provinces of Cambodia: Kampong Chhnang, Battambang, and Banteay Meanchey.
🌍 SDG Contributions: The project strongly contributes to:
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SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being - Through healthcare, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and improved access to appropriate services.
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SDG 4 – Quality Education - Through special education, inclusive education, school participation, and awareness of the right to education.
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SDG 5 – Gender Equality - Through inclusive participation and support for women and girls with disabilities and their families.
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SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth - Through vocational, agricultural, and livelihood skills that create opportunities for greater economic participation.
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SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities - Through promoting the rights, dignity, inclusion, and participation of people with disabilities.
Project Activities Gallery
Project Activities and Story
Story of Change – Rim Lina
From Challenges to Inclusion and Confidence
This video tells the inspiring story of Rim Lina, a young girl who has made meaningful progress through the support of KBO’s SAM Project. With guidance from special-needs teachers, home-based support, physiotherapy, and inclusive education, Lina has developed stronger communication, physical abilities, learning skills, and confidence.
Her journey continued as she joined a public school, where teachers and classmates supported her participation in the classroom. Although she initially faced difficulties with learning and communication, continued encouragement and individualized support helped her make steady progress.
Today, Lina is more confident and actively participates in learning and school activities. Her story demonstrates the importance of inclusive education, family support, dedicated teachers, and community cooperation in creating opportunities for children with disabilities.
“Every child has potential. With the right support and opportunity, every child can learn, participate, and grow.”
Today Is a New Day – Story of Change
“Today is a new day—when every child is encouraged, supported, and given the opportunity to learn and grow.”
This video shares the inspiring journey of Rim Lina, a child with an intellectual disability, and her family's experience with KBO’s support. When Lina was very young, she faced difficulties with walking, communication, and interaction. Through home-based support, physical exercises, special education, and the commitment of her family and teachers, Lina gradually developed new abilities and confidence.
Lina later joined an inclusive classroom in a public school, where special education and public school teachers worked together to support her learning. Over time, she made significant progress in communication, physical development, social interaction, attention, writing, and school performance, while becoming more active in daily life and household activities.
Today, Lina is learning alongside her peers and continuing to grow with the encouragement of her family, teachers, friends, and community. Her story is a powerful reminder that children with disabilities can learn, participate, and achieve their potential when they receive the right support and an inclusive environment.
"From early challenges to confidence and inclusion, Lina’s journey shows the power of family support, dedicated teachers, and inclusive education."
