For years, the Carlos Luis Valle Masís Special Education Center in Cartago, Costa Rica, has been much more than a place of learning for Samuel Elizondo. It is where he has found therapy, encouragement, and people who believe in his potential.

Samuel lives with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects the mobility of part of his hip and requires ongoing care. Behind every step forward are years of perseverance, dedication, and the unwavering support of his mother, Angie Ortiz.

“It’s a process,” Angie explains. “At first, it’s very difficult, but over time you learn to adapt. Samuel always cooperates during his therapy sessions, and that makes everything a little easier.”

Angie’s family has known the work of Hands with Heart for many years. Even before Samuel attended the school, they had already participated in activities organized by the foundation. Over time, that relationship has grown stronger, particularly through the connection they have built with Dr. Jorge Aranda and the team of volunteers.

For Angie, the foundation’s greatest contribution goes far beyond financial support or therapy sessions.

“The foundation gives us support, time, and information. They also create spaces where parents can connect and feel supported. That makes a huge difference.”

Although Costa Rica has made progress toward greater inclusion, Angie believes there is still a long way to go for people living with disabilities and their families.

“There is still so much work to be done. Accessing resources or finding truly accessible spaces is not always easy.”

That is why she believes organizations like Hands with Heart have such a meaningful impact. The foundation reaches communities where many families lack access to specialized therapies, bringing support, hope, and opportunities to those who need them most.

But Hands with Heart’s mission goes even further. In addition to providing direct care, the organization is committed to training local professionals and volunteers so that knowledge remains within the community long after each program ends.

The philosophy is simple: the more knowledge that is shared, the more people are empowered to help. And the stronger the local network becomes, the more families like Samuel’s can access opportunities that improve their quality of life.

Stories like Samuel’s remind us that inclusion depends on more than laws or accessible infrastructure. It is also built by people who choose to give their time, share their expertise, and create communities where every child has the opportunity to thrive with dignity.

Because in the end, every therapy session, every volunteer, and every act of kindness represent something much greater: the belief that no family should have to face this journey alone.