For years, some families in a small Bosnian town faced a painful reality: their children needed support, friendship, and somewhere to feel accepted. But that place didn't exist.
So the parents decided to create it.
On September 26, 2026, families in Jablanica celebrated the opening of Budi mi prijatelj — “Be My Friend” — an inclusive centre for children with developmental difficulties.
Behind the celebration was a mother's determination to change what her community could offer.
One mother's idea. An entire community's response.
Edina Husrep, president of the Budi mi prijatelj Association, understood the struggle personally. As a mother raising a child with developmental difficulties, she knew how isolating life could become without accessible support.
When a community initiative asked what Jablanica needed most, her answer was simple: a welcoming place where children could play, learn, make friends, and develop at their own pace.
Other parents joined her. Then businesses, local institutions, organizations, and neighbors stepped forward.
Some donated money. Others contributed time and resources. Children even gave their Eid celebration money to help.
Together, they made the centre possible.
A psychologist and occupational therapist have been engaged, with plans to expand professional support. The centre is intended to complement existing services while offering children opportunities for connection and development.
For parents, it also promises something precious: a community that understands.
But opening the doors is only the beginning. The association still needs sustainable funding to keep the centre operating.
