FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kids on the Move Expands Efforts to Support Peru’s Disabled and Autistic Communities
Lima, Peru – [February 21, 2025] – Kids on the Move (KOTM) has launched a significant initiative to support children with disabilities and autism in Peru. A delegation comprising CEO Rachelle Rutherford, COO Ryan Erickson, VP of Grant Strategy and Operations Joe Petersen, and Board Member Alberto Puertas traveled to Peru to collaborate with local leaders, professionals, and advocates. Their mission: to enhance education, services, and resources for these children and their families.
Access to specialized care, therapies, and education for individuals with disabilities remains a challenge in Peru and many developing nations. Many families face barriers to essential services, and healthcare providers often lack specialized training in developmental care. KOTM is committed to addressing these gaps by sharing expertise, training professionals, and working alongside Peruvian stakeholders to create sustainable, community-driven solutions.
During their visit, Rutherford, Erickson and the team engaged with Peru’s former Defense Minister, directors of leading health clinics, humanitarian leaders, and the Minister of Health. Discussions centered on the importance of early intervention, therapy services, and parental education. The goal is to support existing efforts in Peru while raising national awareness about the needs of children with disabilities.
KOTM has also partnered with local health professionals and integrated into Peruvian policlinics to provide essential screenings, services, and family support. While many Peruvian doctors are eager for additional training in developmental and therapeutic services, the infrastructure for such education is still evolving. KOTM aims to bridge this gap by sharing best practices, tools, and training to help healthcare providers deliver high-quality care.
“We believe in the value of every child,” said Rutherford. “Our mission is to empower children to reach their fullest potential by engaging families, schools, and communities—ensuring they are seen, supported, and given the opportunities they deserve. Our work in Peru is just beginning, but we are committed to fostering awareness, action, and lasting change.”
This initiative focuses on building connections, strengthening local efforts, and contributing to a sustainable future where Peruvian children with disabilities have access to the care and support they need. As KOTM deepens its engagement with local leaders, medical professionals, and families, it invites the global community—especially those in the U.S.—to join this mission.
How You Can Help
To continue this vital work, KOTM is calling on donors, businesses, and advocates to support their expansion efforts in Peru. Whether through funding, expertise, or partnerships, your involvement can help turn hope into action.
For more information on how you can support Kids on the Move’s work in Peru, visit KOTM.org or contact Lia Barlow.
About Kids on the Move
Kids on the Move is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children with disabilities and developmental delays through early intervention, therapy services, and family education. For decades, KOTM has worked to transform lives across the United States and is now collaborating with international partners to uplift children and families worldwide.
Media Contact:
Lia Barlow
Media Relations/External Communications
lbarlow@kotm.org
801-599-5839
