Where hope begins: the story of “SOS Autism”

It is estimated that between 1 in 100 and 1 in 150 children in the Republic of Moldova are on the autism spectrum, yet many are diagnosed only after starting school—when valuable time for early intervention has already been lost.

On a quiet street in Chișinău, tucked between worn-down and abandoned buildings, stands a place many pass without a second glance. It occupies just one floor of a modest structure—no glass façade, no modern interiors to draw attention. Yet behind its simple doors, the non-governmental organization “SOS Autism” carries out extraordinary work.

For nearly two decades, it has been the only center in the country offering both diagnostic and therapeutic services for children with autism, supporting not just the children but their families as well. In recognition of this unwavering dedication, the center was awarded the 2025 United Nations Human Rights Award - a testament to the impact hidden within its unassuming walls.

“When SOS Autism was founded in 2008, there were no public or private centers in Moldova offering evidence-based therapy for children with autism. We were the first,” recalls Aliona Dumitraș, the organization’s director and mother of a young man with autism. “At that time, behavioral therapy was the only proven method, yet it simply didn’t exist here.”

The story of the center began not with a plan, but with a need. A few parents, searching for answers for their own children, came together in the absence of support. 

“When there is nothing, you try to build something,” Aliona says. “That is how SOS Autism was born - out of a parent’s need, and the solidarity of others facing the same reality.”

Today, SOS Autism has grown into two centers in Chișinău. One is dedicated to diagnosis and medical evaluation; the other offers therapeutic care and a wide range of services—from early intervention for young children to vocational workshops for youth, as well as free legal and psychological support for parents.

Yet beyond services, the organization continues to challenge deep-rooted misconceptions. “There are still many misunderstandings and myths about autism,” Aliona explains, pointing to the lack of accessible information. Too often, autism is mistaken for an intellectual disability, though this applies to only a quarter of children. Many are non-speaking, but still fully capable of learning and communicating in their own ways. “Their world is not worse,” she says quietly. “It is just different.”

It is the changes in children’s lives that keep the organization moving forward. Aliona remembers one child in particular who, after nine months of intensive therapy, made such remarkable progress that at the next screening she was no longer diagnosed with autism. Moments like these give meaning to every effort.

At the center, families begin to see their children grow more independent, step by step. Through vocational workshops, young people gain the confidence to pursue real jobs and build their own futures. This year alone, three young people with autism secured permanent employment, with nine more expected to follow next year—an achievement that once seemed out of reach.

Beyond this, the organization has also supported six families in starting their own small social businesses, turning challenges into opportunities and hope into tangible change.

For many children with autism, inclusion in the education system is still an unfinished journey. There have been small steps forward, but challenges remain. Teachers often lack the training and tools they need, and overcrowded classrooms make individual support difficult. 

“Imagine a teacher with 36 children in a class, and one of them has severe sensory and behavioral needs. The system is not yet ready,” Aliona says.

In response, SOS Autism stepped in to bridge the gap, developing practical training guides to help teachers better support their students and create more inclusive classrooms.

Looking ahead, the organization continues to grow, determined to expand its services and advocate for stronger support systems. Aliona’s vision is clear and deeply personal: 

“I want to see these children grow into independent adults, living meaningful lives, with the support they need - even when their families are no longer there.”

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The story was written Carolina Ceban, intern at UN Moldova within the UN Diversity Internship Program 2025-2026.