Walk4Hope: Promoting empathy, support for amputees

Families, youth and individuals from all walks of life joined in to make a difference at ‘Walk4Hope’, an event organised by The Youth Council of Colombo Friend in Need Society (CFINS) in collaboration with Rotaract and Interact Clubs 

Pix by Nisal Baduge

The Youth Council of Colombo Friend in Need Society (CFINS), in collaboration with Rotaract and Interact Clubs, organised Walk4Hope, a 3 km run/walk aimed at raising awareness and fostering empathy for amputees in Sri Lanka. 

Walk4Hope was more than just a walk—it was a movement to promote inclusivity and empathy. It was a gathering to celebrate and advocate for the differently abled community, to challenge outdated perceptions and to break down the barriers that exist in society. The message that ran throughout was being disabled does not mean being unable- it means being differently abled. Families, youth, and individuals from all walks of life joined in making a difference.

The Colombo Friend in Need Society (CFINS) has been a pillar of support in creating such an environment for the differently abled community. Established in 1834, it is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest charitable organizations, dedicated to improving the lives of amputees by providing prosthetic limbs and rehabilitation services free of charge to individuals across Sri Lanka. By its work, CFINS has fostered a more inclusive environment, ensuring that no one is left behind. 

The amputees are encouraged in employment opportunities and educational facilities through corporates and individuals who support the centre. Similarly, through this event, the organizers aimed at highlighting challenges faced by amputees and inspire greater community involvement in supporting their rehabilitation and changing perceptions in society. 

Participants were taken on a guided tour of the facilities, where they learned about the services provided by CFINS. Stalls were set up by the self- employment project of CFINS, with entrepreneurial amputees selling their products, alongside other food stalls. 

Following the tour, attendees gathered in front of the premises for the second part of the awareness session, where prominent figures from CFINS spoke of the cause, the significance of the event, and stereotypes faced by amputees in society. 

The panel included renowned marine biologist and CFINS BOM member; Dr. Asha de Vos, a Para-athlete that represented Sri Lanka in the 2024 Paralympic games; Naveed Raheem, Differently abled technician at CFINS; Madushanka Fernando, two Differently abled university students; Wasana Sewwandi and R.P.S.D Rajapaksha, and CFINS Youth Council President and a chairperson of Walk4Hope; Jadyn de Silva. A donation was also presented by Colombo Night Run in support of CFINS’ initiatives whilst the main sponsor of the event was Anim8.

This event marks the beginning of a movement towards a more inclusive society.