On May 30, 2021, the Regional Center Gabrovo joined the national initiative “Challenge Me with a Cause.” A hike to Mount Ispolin was organized for children and students with special educational needs (SEN) and their families. Participants were to take several thousand steps, each according to their ability. Even when someone reached their limit, with the help of a friend or peer, they were encouraged to take one more step, called the “Step for the Cause.” The goal was for the children and students to understand that every challenge can be an opportunity for support, friendship, and happy moments.

More than 15 families of children with SEN participated, along with many participants from social services working with children with disabilities and SEN, sports clubs with athletes with SEN, and educational institutions. All participants received certificates of participation, with a lighthearted sense of humor, in categories such as “Fastest Walker,” “Most Curious Participant,” “Explorer of the Hike,” and many others, with special gifts for the most active participants.