Who We Are

The Nathan Ebanks Foundation® (NEF) was founded in 2007 by the parents of a child with disabilities in Jamaica, in honour of their son who at the age of nine months, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

The Foundation is the product of the collective vision of this family’s experience in raising a child with disabilities, and is established on the mission to ensure that all children, particularly children with disabilities and special needs, are included, empowered and supported to access and participate in holistic development - education, intellectual, emotional, social, physical, artistic, creative and spiritual - to release their full potential.

Our Philosophy

At the NEF, we promote the principles that; all persons, of any age, born or living with disabilities, have a fundamental right to access the same resources, care and protection as all their countrymen and that all are equal in their fundamental need and human rights to a dignified life, personal autonomy and freedom to pursue paths to their own development in becoming valued, responsible and well-adjusted citizens in their communities and country”.

Our Operating Pillars

Our Vision

In accordance with our philosophy, our vision at the Nathan Ebanks Foundation, is to see all children, of varied abilities and talent, grow, learn and achieve by being afforded the necessary support to thrive. Our vision is framed from the tenets we hold dear, for inclusion, for equality and for empowerment.

Our Mission

The Nathan Ebanks Foundation works for the inclusion, participation, empowerment and equalization of opportunities for children ages 0-18 years, with disabilities and special educational needs. Programmes and project initiatives promoted by the Foundation are designed to address inclusively, the physical, cognitive, emotional, social, mental and learning disabilities experienced by children as well as providing information, educational resources and parental guidance for dealing with behavioural disorders.

What Do We Do

Trains policy makers, teachers, parents and administrators through signature/customized workshops, conferences and specialized forums to advance children's rights and provide improved services.

Advocates at the highest level of the society to broaden the base of support for children living with disabilities and their families/carers.

Partners with key institutions such as the Ministry of Education (MOE) and Child Development Agency (CDA) and the private sector to deliver improved services to children and families.

Conducts research on key sector issues to inform policy and practice.

Serves as a resource centre for the nation’s educational institutions and agencies, administering or creating curricula for persons with disabilities.