For a long time, persons with disabilities have been misunderstood due to barriers, marginalized by prejudice, and faced immense difficulties in daily life, often unable to utilize their talents. Furthermore, being viewed as a vulnerable group in society has deprived them of opportunities to participate and contribute. A recent survey by Eden Foundation revealed that “lack of confidence,” “insecurity,” and “unfriendly experiences” are the three main factors preventing persons with disabilities from leaving home and seeking employment. Compounded by caregivers' excessive worry and reluctance to let go, this dual pressure makes it even harder for persons with disabilities to break free from their circumstances, urgently requiring society's collective attention.
Eden's “Service Programs for Persons with Disabilities” has launched, themed “We Are A Team” this year. It aims to challenge the prevailing perception of disability as a disadvantage, helping society recognize that persons with disabilities are just like you and me. With gentle, empathetic companionship, support for independent living, opportunities for skills training, and a friendly, non-discriminatory environment, they can build confidence, leverage their strengths and talents, and break free from isolation. They can transition from passive beneficiaries to active contributors, becoming supported friends, colleagues, and teammates.
Eden call on the public support persons with disabilities and be their strongest partners in the same team, standing with them as reliable teammates who encourage each other.
After graduating from university, Pei-Yi, who has multiple disabilities, faced repeated setbacks in her job search. Though discouraged, she never gave up. With the assistance of a vocational rehabilitation case manager from the Taipei City Foreign and Disabled Labor Office, she successfully joined Eden's Wonderful Master Cleaning Work Team. She cherishes this job deeply. Not only does she proactively learn from senior staff, but she also enthusiastically assists her peers. When challenges arise, she collaborates with everyone to find solutions, ensuring cleaning tasks are completed smoothly. Today, she has become a core member of the work team.
To her peers, Pei-Yi is a diligent and independent teammate.
Wan-Yi is a visually impaired individual passionate about music. Having received inclusive education since childhood, she developed an independent and self-reliant character. After graduating from school, she joined numerous choirs and orchestras. Her dedication to preparation—often memorizing more lyrics than others—led her to take on coordinating roles within ensembles. This commitment earned her opportunities to perform worldwide, establishing her as an indispensable soul within her orchestra. Beyond this, she frequently visits schools to share life education insights, helping students understand persons with disabilities and foster acceptance over discrimination. Her optimism, confidence, and dedication transform what could be a dark world into one rich with vibrant, warm hues.
Wan-Yi's optimism, confidence, and willingness to give transform what could be a dark world into one rich with vibrant, warm hues.
Based on Eden's observations in the field, the primary reasons persons with disabilities struggle to leave home and face employment challenges include: fear of trying new things, lack of specialized job skills, and concerns about acceptance. Among those who acquired disabilities, the inability to accept changes in self-image often leads to anxiety about being viewed differently and apprehension about the future. The attitudes of family caregivers also significantly impact the independence of persons with disabilities. Concerns about their loved ones being deceived or bullied when venturing out, coupled with caregivers' feelings of obligation, often lead to overprotection. They feel uneasy and reluctant to let go. Compounding these challenges, an unwelcoming external environment—marked by inaccessible transportation, insufficient resources, limited social interaction, and workplace hostility—further hampers their path back into society.
Mr. Tine-Yuang Ho, Vice CEO of Eden Foundation, believes that “companionship” and “empowerment” are the key solutions for supporting persons with disabilities in reintegrating into the community. These principles form the core of Eden's services, including daily living care and employment support service. Mr. Tine-Yuang Ho explains that Eden provide tailored services such as full-day care, day care, and small-scale sheltered community workshops to meet the diverse needs of families with challenged members. Through companionship and emotional support, we offer crucial assistance. For persons with disabilities seeking employment, Eden maintain a comprehensive support network. This includes career exploration, pre-employment training, job matching, interview accompaniment, and on-the-job coaching. The employment support service team diligently empowers persons with disabilities while also supporting family caregivers. This approach fosters self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment for those with disabilities , significantly reducing the burden on their families.
Eden Charity Ambassador Mr. Emerson Tsai and Eden Joy Choir perform the Dream Chasing Suite Medley
In 2024, Eden Life Care Services served a total of 9,631 persons. Supported employment services successfully matched 124 times, facilitated stable employment for 60 persons, and developed partnerships with 283 vendors. The goal of independent living for persons with disabilities requires public understanding and respect, employer trust, and the courage and confidence of both the individuals and their families. This enables them to showcase their unique strengths and skills in daily life, supporting and encouraging one another—because we are a Team!
For 43 years, Eden have supported persons with disabilities through diverse services, promoting independent living and empowerment training. Beyond providing life care, rehabilitation, reablement, supportive employment, services for blind and visually impaired, and assistive device services, we actively engage in community-based services. We operate collaborative model sites for people with psycho-social disabilities, small-scale sheltered community workshops, and day care centers. We prioritize mental health and advocate for the realization of disability equality, we aspire for persons with disabilities to fully integrate into communities, participate in society, and become courageous partners alongside us all! For details, search “Eden Service Programs for Persons with Disabilities” or call our support hotline at 0800-025885.
