Habiganj Association for Autism and Social Development (HASSI) strives to support and transform the lives of special needs children through therapeutic and skill development services. The initiative commenced in 2014. HASSI Special Children School for autistic children is the core project of this organization. The services are free of cost and highly accessible to its beneficiaries. The organization works at the community level to raise awareness about autism and provides counseling support for the parents of autistic children. The inspiration for creating an organization like HASSI began as the founder, Kamrujjaman Rubel was studying at Brindavan Government College. At that time, he first experienced the pure feeling of volunteerism by raising funds for a cancer patient. Later, with the help of some friends, he managed to care for a child with special needs. He wanted to do more, reach a vast level and contribute to Bangladesh through his passion for social work. Thus, HAASI was formed with the aim of improving the lifestyle of children with special needs and disabilities through therapeutic services and skill-building programs with twenty-one founding members. Since its inception, the organization has faced many challenges. It was not easy for such students with low incomes to run an organization with no funding. Somehow, they managed to pay office rent, continued researching their beneficiaries, and provided financial support to some families with special needs children. However, they faced an even bigger challenge than the financial problem. It was to overcome the superstition crippling the community. The organizers and volunteers sought opportunities to reach the community leaders and their problems were heard. With the help of the community leaders, they established the first educational institute for autistic children in the Habiganj district. ‘HAASI Special Children’s School’ began its journey in 2018 along with a service center facility where therapy givers and parents work hand in hand to develop the skills and lifestyle of such kids.
