Social support associations in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina launch new initiatives

In Croatia, the association ‘Osmjeh’, which supports children with special needs and learning difficulties, has launched the ‘Korak bliže osmijehu’ (A Step Closer to a Smile) program. Funded by the Ministry of Labour, Pension System, Family and Social Policy with 43,150.00€, the initiative is being implemented in partnership with the City of Pleternica and the Public Institution Pleternica. Running from June 2026 through May 2027, the program serves 30 children with developmental disabilities and adults with disabilities through educational workshops, sports rehabilitation with specialists, and organized excursions.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the ‘Susret’ association for parents and friends of children with special needs held its annual assembly in Čitluk. The meeting reviewed the association's activities throughout 2025, which included creative workshops and social outings. During the assembly, a new Management Board was elected, and Marija Bulić was chosen as the new president, succeeding Dragica Jerkić. The leadership team also appointed Slaven Pehar as vice president, Iva Doko as secretary, and Dragica Jerkić as treasurer.