Foundation for Education and Protection of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ZICEV)

ZICEV is the biggest civil society organization in Turkey working for individual with IDs. It was established in 1982 by a group of volunteers under the leadership of Mrs. Makbule Ölçen. Today, in our Gölbaşı campus consisting of 9 buildings which are located on the land purchased from the State of Turkey, our services for education, rehabilitation and socializing have been continuing. ZİÇEV has also 14 branches in several cities in Turkey with more than 200 staff. General Headquarters and branches intend to provide a good education and a secure future for children and individuals with intellectual disabilities, and to protect them when their parents pass a way. While carrying out its activities, ZİÇEV works closely with the Ministry of National Education and Ministry of family and social policies, civil society organizations, universities, central and local governments. Since its foundation till today, ZICEV provided education and rehabilitation services to ten thousands of individuals with intellectual disabilities without age limitation and support for their families. As a complementary part of its services, ZİÇEV has carried out so many projects funded by national and international organizations. Its financial resources come from donations and projects. As a summary, underlining principle of ZİÇEV is to develop permanent solutions for the problems and needs of its target group and to take part within the policy discussions in Turkey about individuals with intellectual disabilities.