Reshma Laungani likes walking because it makes her feel independent. She found it hard to keep her balance at first, but is gaining confidence and walks a little further each day.
While Amelia Roberts, programme co-ordinator at the Hong Kong Vocational Centre, which has an office in Pokfulam, would take no credit for it, the gratitude of Ms Laungani, 30, is apparent in a piece she wrote for the centre about her experience in learning to step out of her wheelchair. Ms Roberts said: 'Our mission is not to improve people, but to find opportunities to let their personalities shine.'
The centre provides opportunities in the form of jobs, volunteer work, education and a social life for its members - English-speaking adults with a range of disabilities.
'People tend to look at disabilities . . . and label individuals accordingly,' said Ms Roberts, who has been with the centre for four years. 'But we encourage them to look at the whole person.'
The centre plans to use funds raised from Operation Santa to enable members to live away from home for a few days a month.
Helen Fletcher, service development co-ordinator, said: 'It really helps them gain confidence in their ability to take care of themselves and be more self-reliant. Everyone needs to feel a sense of purpose, and that is what we help them achieve.'
