Building independence for people with disabilities in Suriname

In Suriname, many people with disabilities live at home and depend largely on family members who often lack the knowledge, resources or access to appropriate support. Opo Doro, an institution for home-based care, is working to improve this situation. With strategic guidance from PUM and a targeted grant from PUM’s Hans Blankert Fund, the organisation is taking concrete steps towards a more sustainable and financially independent future.

Opo Doro provides home-based guidance for people with disabilities, supporting them to improve their quality of life, participate more fully in society and become more independent. The organisation remained largely dependent on donations and partner contributions to cover its operating costs. To secure its long-term future, Opo Doro asked PUM to support the transition towards a sustainable non-profit model with stronger financial foundations.

Step by step collaboration with PUM

The collaboration started with remote advice, consisting of in-depth guidance by PUM expert Hieke van Haarst-Stevelink. Together with Opo Doro she developed a strategic plan that focused on priorities for the short term, while laying the groundwork for sustainable growth. The advice centred on strengthening internal processes, improving client registration and management reporting, and identifying realistic opportunities to diversify income without losing sight of the organisation’s social purpose.

Investing in meaningful work

A key outcome of the advice was the decision to establish a day-care and social workshop. Here, people with disabilities can develop practical skills and produce goods for sale, ranging from handicrafts to small food products made from local materials. To make this possible, Opo Doro and the PUM expert jointly applied for a grant from the Hans Blankert Fund. The grant was approved and used to partly purchase essential equipment, including sewing machines, kitchen appliances, IT equipment, and shop fittings.

The investment enables Opo Doro to expand the workshop from three to up to ten clients, set up a small on-site shop and professionalise production. Income from product sales contributes directly to covering operating costs, reducing dependence on external funding and strengthening the organisation’s financial base.

Impact today and tomorrow

Beyond income generation, the project delivers clear social impact. Participants gain skills, confidence and visibility, while being actively involved in meaningful work. The workshop also positions Opo Doro to apply for official recognition as a care institution, opening access to government subsidies in the future. Step by step, the organisation is building a resilient model that benefits its clients and contributes to a more inclusive society.