Foundation established
The Marianne Center is officially registered in Kenya to give young people with intellectual disabilities more opportunities.
History
The Marianne Center began in 2008, when two volunteers were working in Nairobi. One of them grew up with his sister Marianne, who has Down syndrome. In Kenya, they noticed that people with Down syndrome were hardly visible. That changed when, during a food distribution, they saw a boy with Down syndrome hidden away in a corner. This encounter made a deep impression and set them thinking.
Further research showed that children with intellectual disabilities in Kenya are often hidden, mistreated or ignored. Together with committed Kenyans, the volunteers decided to set up a centre where young people with disabilities could develop and learn skills. In 2010, the Marianne Center officially opened its doors. The centre is named after Marianne, who designed the logo herself. Their mission: to give young people in Kenya the same opportunities Marianne had, namely to develop, to learn and to contribute to their community.
Key milestones
2008
2010
Official opening
The Marianne Center in Nairobi opens its doors to its first students: a place full of hope and possibility.
2019
Temporary closure due to COVID-19
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, all activities have to stop and students are forced to stay at home.
2020
New leadership
Anthony Wairegi is appointed manager and, together with the board, begins rebuilding the centre.
2021
Restart thanks to support from the Netherlands
With help from funds and donors in the Netherlands, the centre reopens and the students return.
2024
Growing and thriving
Almost 50 students receive training and support every day. The Marianne Center grows into a vibrant community for learning and living.
2025
15 years of Marianne Center
We celebrate 15 years of dedication, growth and success, and look to the future with confidence!
