Our Work
Holistic special education and caregiver partnership
RTM serves children with disabilities and their families in rural Rwanda through small, relational programs rooted in education and caregiver partnership.
RTM’s work is shaped by a simple conviction: lasting change grows through patient, loving, and consistent presence. This conviction flows from our Christian faith and our desire to follow Jesus’ example of drawing near to those most neglected. We serve our children and families through work that is relational, disciplined, and grounded in that calling. What follows explains how this conviction shapes the way we serve.
How We Work
RTM works slowly and intentionally.
We do not rush to scale or promise quick results.
Instead, we:
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build trust over time
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focus on individualized education and care
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require caregiver to participate as active partners
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remain consistent, even when progress is slow
We believe this kind of work reflects how Jesus loved — by drawing near, staying present, and walking faithfully with people over time.
Who We Focus On
RTM primarily serves young children with disabilities, especially during early childhood and primary years.
These early years matter most because this is when children are:
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most responsive to support
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forming foundational communication, movement, and social skills
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deeply shaped by their caregiving environment
By focusing on early childhood as much as possible, we seek to come alongside families at a stage where support can make the greatest difference – not only for the child, but for caregivers and the wider community.
Why Caregivers Are Central
Caregivers are the most important people in a child’s life.
No program, teacher, or organizaiton can replace their role.
That is why RTM treats parents and caregivers not as beneficiaries, but as essential partners in a child’s development. Caregivers participate actively in every class sessions, learning alongside their children and practicing skills that continue at home and in daily life.
When caregivers grow in confidence, understanding, and responsibility, change becomes more sustainable and extends far beyond the classroom.
Over time, this shared learning also fosters mutual support among caregivers, reducing isolation and building community around families who once carried the burden alone.
Depth Over Scale
RTM chooses depth over scale because it is necessary for the kind of work we do.
We keep class sizes small.
We limit how fast we grow.
We prioritize relationship, consistency, and caregiver engagement over reach.
This means we may serve fewer children than large organizations. It also means we can remain present, attentive, and faithful to each child and family we serve. This reflects our commitment to faithful care, not numerical reach.
Faith That Shapes Our Work
RTM is openly grounded in Christian faith.
We seek to follow Jesus’ example in how we serve—through humility, patience, presence, and love, especially toward those who are often overlooked. Our faith shapes how we work, not who we serve.
In the life of the program, we express Christian faith through prayer, song, relationships, and the teaching of Christian values. Participation in RTM programs does not require adherence to Christianity, and no family is coerced or pressured to convert.
We believe genuine transformation cannot be forced. It unfolds over time through faithful service, trusted relationships, and the freedom God gives to each person.
What This Leads To
Observable progress
We care deeply about observable progress – children developing new skills, caregivers growing in confidence, and families experiencing practical change in daily life.
Renewal of Relationships and Community
We seek the renewal of relationships within families and communities, as caregivers support one another and children are seen with greater understanding and care.
Restoration of Relationship with God
Ultimately, we entrust the deepest transformation to God. Our hope extends beyond what can be measured: that children and families may encounter God’s love, have their image of God restored, and freely return to Him. This renewal can’t be forced or evaluated; it unfolds through faithful and loving service over time.