At our core, Windreach believes that every person deserves the chance to thrive, connect and belong. Yet, for many Bermudians living with developmental or physical challenges — whether children or adults — true inclusion remains just out of reach, as barriers continue to limit participation and connection. These barriers lead to isolation, lower self-esteem, and challenges to mental health and wellbeing.

Windreach exists to change that.

Through our unique blend of evidence-based, therapeutic, educational, outdoor and animal-assisted programmes, we create meaningful experiences that build confidence, spark joy and cultivate skills for life. Whether it’s caring for animals, learning in nature or engaging in hands-on activities, our participants discover new strengths and gain a more profound sense of belonging within their community.

Research shows that feeling connected enhances wellbeing and resilience. At Windreach, we see this every day. Individuals who once felt excluded are now part of a team — developing friendships, learning life skills, and contributing to their community in ways that affirm their value and potential.

Families benefit, too. One caregiver shared: “We are most appreciative of the excellent daycare services given to my mom by the staff, and believe we could not have made it this far with her dementia care without their assistance.”

Stories such as these remind us that when individuals are supported, families also find relief, hope and the strength to keep going.

Schools see the ripple effect as well. One teacher of neurodivergent students told us: “I have witnessed first-hand how Windreach opens doors to incredible growth and joy. Each visit enriches our students’ language, lifts their spirits and introduces them to a world of possibilities.”

The need for this work is real and urgent. The Human Rights Commission’s 2025 Report on Disability Inclusion confirmed that people with disabilities in Bermuda continue to face systemic barriers in education, employment, healthcare, housing and public life. Many experience a declining quality of life owing to limited access to essential services.

Windreach bridges these gaps, offering safe, evidence-based programmes that empower individuals while advancing Bermuda’s progress towards true inclusion and equity.

And we are leading the way. In 2024, Bermuda made history as the first British Overseas Territory to have the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities extended by Britain. This milestone brings both opportunity and responsibility — to ensure that inclusion becomes not just policy, but lived reality.

We are proud to play a role in this national transformation — raising awareness, building acceptance and creating practical pathways to access.

Our programmes range from Adult Day Services and Life Skills Training to Therapeutic Riding, Environmental Education and our newly launched Farm Shop. They are designed not just to teach, but to empower.

In 2024 alone, more than 1,220 individuals benefited from our programmes, including 168 participants with identified support needs who attended weekly sessions — totalling 7,440 experiences of growth, healing and connection. Each one represents a step towards a more inclusive Bermuda.

As Bermuda works towards greater accessibility and inclusion for everyone, Windreach remains committed to leading with compassion, expertise and community spirit. Our goal is not just to remove barriers, but to cultivate environments where every individual — regardless of ability — can participate fully, achieve their potential and live with dignity.

Every milestone, every smile and every new skill learnt is made possible by the generosity of our community. Together, we can continue to dismantle barriers, open doors and build a Bermuda where every individual has the opportunity to flourish.

• Kate Terceira is the executive director of Windreach. To learn more, volunteer, or support our programmes, visit www.windreach.bm. This op-ed is part of the Third Sector Spotlight Series, a collective campaign co-ordinated by the Non-Profit Alliance of Bermuda. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the value, impact and contributions of Bermuda’s non-profit sector