In a testament to the power of advocacy and community-driven initiatives, Out On A Limb, an annual disability advocacy walk organized by The Irede Foundation, celebrates its milestone of ten years of impactful work. Founded by Crystal Chigbu, the foundation aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by children with limb loss and persons with disabilities, while providing crucial support and resources to empower them to lead fulfilling lives.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Every Step,” underscores the necessity of inclusivity and highlights the urgent need for a world where persons with disabilities are fully integrated into society. In a country like Nigeria, where representation of persons with disabilities is lacking, initiatives like Out On A Limb play a vital role in breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive environment for all.
The walk has expanded its reach, taking place in over 44 locations worldwide and mobilizing over 1500 advocates in various communities. With an indirect reach of over 10,000,000 people and a direct impact on 15,000 individuals, Out On A Limb has become a catalyst for change, sparking conversations and driving action towards a more inclusive society.
Over the past decade, the foundation has witnessed significant achievements, including the provision of 534 prosthetic limbs to 483 children in need. The increase in referrals for limb empowerment, counseling, and psychosocial support underscores the growing recognition of the foundation’s invaluable contributions to the disability community.
Moreover, the foundation’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, as it has successfully engaged the Lagos state Government in initiatives aimed at ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for persons with disabilities. Through events like the walk-in exhibition and virtual discourses, the foundation has created platforms for dialogue and connection, amplifying the voices and stories of champions within the disability community.
Crystal Chigbu, the visionary behind The Irede Foundation, has been instrumental in driving its mission forward. Inspired by her own daughter’s journey, Crystal’s tireless dedication has resulted in the provision of hundreds of prosthetic limbs to children across 17 states in Nigeria. Her commitment to empowering children with disabilities serves as a beacon of hope for countless families facing similar challenges.
As Out On A Limb enters its second decade of advocacy and empowerment, The Irede Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable world for persons with disabilities. Through collective action and unwavering determination, the foundation continues to pave the way towards a future where every step is celebrated, and every individual is valued.
