Child Empowerment and Educational Outreach Program
Child Empowerment Program
Background
In 1989, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which emphasizes four core principles: non-discrimination, the right to life, survival and development, the right to be heard, and the best interests of the child. These principles serve as a foundation for child welfare work around the world. Taiwan enacted the Implementation Act of the CRC in 2014, incorporating the Convention into domestic law to ensure that children’s needs are considered in all areas of legislation and policy, with appropriate support and protection provided.
Since 2011, CWLF has been committed to empowering children by creating opportunities for them to voice their thoughts and experiences, making the right to be heard a reality. Through these empowerment programs, both children with special needs and those in general settings are given the chance to express themselves. By amplifying their voices and perspectives, we also help adults better understand children’s views, working together to create a more child-friendly environment in Taiwan.
What We Do
Children’s Rights Empowerment Services
Who We Serve
Children under 18Educational Outreach Services
Background
Based on our experiences in post-disaster bereavement support after the 921 Earthquake and in addressing school bullying, we have observed how children may develop anxiety, insecurity, or fear when facing trauma—whether from the loss of a loved one, interpersonal conflicts, bullying, everyday challenges, or even major social events. Without timely support to process these experiences and emotions, such adverse childhood experiences can have a long-term impact on their well-being and development.
Through our two main outreach programs—Life Education on Grief and Resilience and Trauma-Informed Approaches: Anti-Bullying and Emotional Education—we work with schools to provide courses for teachers, parents, and students. These programs aim to strengthen children’s coping and recovery skills, while also helping adults adopt a trauma-informed perspective to better understand children’s behavior. By enhancing professional knowledge, empathy, and practical skills, we equip adults to become strong and supportive resources in children’s lives.
What We Do
● Bereavement counseling
● Anti-bullying consultation
● Teacher training workshops
● School talks and presentations
● Classroom counseling
● Parent seminars
● Public awareness campaigns: Life Education on Grief and Resilience; “I Have My Right Against Bullying”
● Development of educational materials
Who We Serve
● Children and their families● Elementary, junior high, and senior high school students and teachers
● Children affected by bereavement or bullying, and their families
● Members of the public concerned with issues of grief, loss, and bullying
Young Sailor Learning Empowerment Program
Background
In Taiwan, many parents enroll their children in various after-school talent or enrichment classes, carefully comparing options to ensure their child does not “fall behind at the starting line.”
For most disadvantaged families, however, financial hardship is a constant challenge. Parents are often focused on making ends meet, leaving little room to invest in extracurricular opportunities. As a result, children grow up with limited resources, unable to imagine or plan for their future.
Through years of serving underprivileged families, we have found that many children, though struggling academically, possess remarkable artistic or creative potential. Unfortunately, financial barriers prevent them from developing these talents. Our program identifies children with special aptitudes and provides them with opportunities to learn and grow.
We believe every child is like a ship at sea, and only they can steer their own course. With the right support and resources, these “young sailors” can embark on their journey, equipped to shape their own futures. By nurturing their talents, we aim to give children not only the skills but also the “choices” to take charge of their lives.
What We Do
● Talent development scholarships● Regular home visits to follow up on learning progress, and discuss future planning
● Opportunities to participate in community service projects as a way of giving back
● Talent showcase events to present learning
⬛ Read more:
Light Up Your Life—20th Anniversary Exhibition of the Young Sailor Learning Empowerment Program