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Our Story: From Vision to Impact
ECIL was founded in June 2011 in response to a growing, unmet national need: Lebanon lacked specialized, coordinated services for infants and toddlers at risk of developmental delays. Too many families were navigating this critical stage without the support necessary to foster their child’s growth or ensure inclusion in society.
The center emerged as a new social initiative inspired by the enduring vision of Imam Moussa Sadr, who believed that society functions like a living body—when one part is neglected or in pain, the whole is affected. Following this philosophy, ECIL was established to serve as both a healing space and an advocate for the invisible needs of children with developmental challenges.
From its earliest days, ECIL has relied on a multidisciplinary, evidence-based model that places families at the heart of the intervention process. Over the past twelve years, we have worked to align global best practices in early childhood development with Lebanese cultural values, making our approach both scientifically grounded and socially responsive.
Thanks to the dedication of our licensed, specialized team—including therapists, educators, psychologists, physicians, and social workers—ECIL has become a national reference in the field of early childhood intervention. Our programs are dynamic, personalized, and inclusive, ensuring that each child and caregiver receives support tailored to their unique needs and goals.
Among our most meaningful achievements:
- We have significantly reduced the average age of referral, enabling earlier, more effective intervention.
- We now support expectant mothers during late pregnancy, preparing them for nurturing care from day one.
- We have documented a consistent rise in family engagement and co-participation, strengthening outcomes for children and communities alike.
From a modest beginning to a recognized center of excellence, ECIL continues to grow—guided by compassion, driven by science, and rooted in the belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive.