Where Acceptance Begins With Compassion
Open Arms Kids Initiative is a Minnesota-registered nonprofit expanding autism awareness, parent education, and structured behavioral support in Liberia. We are building pathways toward a future autism center, community training programs, and sustainable systems of care.
WHY OAKI EXISTS
Across Liberia, awareness around autism is growing, yet many families still face stigma, misunderstanding, and limited access to structured support.
Children with developmental differences are often overlooked not because of lack of love, but because of limited information, training, and resources.
Open Arms Kids Initiative was founded to help shift that reality. The phrase "open arms" represents acceptance, dignity, and belonging. It reflects how every child and family should feel - welcomed, supported, and understood.
We believe real change happens when communities choose education over stigma and action over silence.
Mission
To increase autism awareness and acceptance in Liberia by providing culturally relevant education, parent training, and accessible ABA-informed behavioral support.
We are working to develop sustainable systems of care, including community-based training programs and the future establishment of a structured autism support center.
Vision
A Liberia where children with autism and developmental differences are embraced with understanding, given equitable access to support, and empowered to thrive at home, in school, and within their communities.
We envision a sustainable model of care that includes parent education, professional training, and structured autism services rooted in compassion and evidence-based practice.
How We Serve Communities:
Community Education & Advocacy
We provide culturally grounded education to reduce stigma and increase understanding about autism across families, schools, faith communities, and public spaces.
Parent & Professional Partnership
We equip parents, educators, and community leaders with practical tools, structured strategies, and autism-informed approaches to better support children.
Developing Structured Support Systems
We are working toward the expansion of sustainable autism services, including the development of a structured support center and accessible behavioral programs.
TRAINING & COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Strengthening Knowledge. Empowering Families.
OAKI offers training programs designed for:
⮞ Parents and caregivers
⮞ Teachers and school administrators
⮞ Community leaders
⮞ Faith-based organizations
Our workshops focus on understanding autism, early signs and intervention, classroom strategies, and culturally responsive approaches to support.
Interested in training for your school or community group?
Get Involved
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Volunteer With OAKI
Support awareness campaigns, workshops, and community outreach efforts that expand autism
understanding across Liberia.
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Partner With OAKI
Collaborate as a school, organization, faith group, or professional to strengthen autism education and
structured support systems.
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Support the Work
Your contribution helps fund parent training, community education, and the development of
sustainable autism services.
Let’s Work Together
If you are a parent seeking support, an educator requesting training, or an organization interested in collaboration, we welcome your message.