September 17, 2026 marks a defining milestone for our community: the official opening of the Matteo Center’s physical facility in Bragadiru, Ilfov County.
What started as an urgent search for answers and support for one child has now grown into a concrete, thoughtfully equipped space dedicated entirely to children with rare diseases — especially Williams syndrome and related neurodevelopmental conditions — and the families who walk beside them each day.
A dream realized: a space built around children
For families receiving a rare disease diagnosis, the initial months are often overwhelming: endless travel between dispersed clinics, conflicting guidance, and a profound sense of isolation. At the Matteo Center, our core mission from day one has been to transform that experience.
We designed our facility at Strada Garofiței nr. 22F, ap. 1, Bragadiru not as a sterile clinic or an impersonal office, but as a safe, warm, and child-centered sanctuary. Every detail — from warm lighting and tactile natural materials to intuitive room layouts — was chosen to reduce sensory overload and provide children with a calming, predictable environment.
Spaces opening their doors on September 17
Beginning September 17, the Matteo Center offers children and parents fully prepared environments designed for their developmental needs:
1. Early evaluation and individual therapy room
A peaceful room dedicated to one-on-one sessions, equipped for developmental evaluation, speech-language therapy, cognitive-behavioral counseling, and early physical rehabilitation. Featuring ergonomic furniture and adaptive materials, this space provides the quiet environment necessary for focused, structured engagement.
2. Creative workshops and sensory development room
A modular, bright space dedicated to small-group activities: art workshops, cooperative play, music exploration, and multisensory stimulation. Here, children learn to interact with peers at their own comfortable pace without pressure, building independence, joy, and social confidence.
3. Family orientation and community hub
Near the entrance, we arranged a dedicated area for open, unhurried conversations with parents. Here, families can browse informative guides, scientifically validated resources, and — above all — connect with a team ready to listen and provide practical navigation across medical, educational, and social care pathways.
Services available from day one
Starting with our official opening, our integrated support model is fully operational:
- Initial orientation and priority setting: A gentle first consultation dedicated to understanding your child and family, outlining immediate next steps without pressure.
- Multidisciplinary developmental assessment: Identifying individual strengths and areas that benefit from targeted intervention (motor skills, communication, speech, and sensory regulation).
- Personalized intervention plans: Structured therapy sessions tailored to each child's pace, with clear goals discussed collaboratively with parents.
- Ongoing family support: Parent support groups, practical empowerment workshops, and advocacy guidance for school and public service interactions.
How to visit us
To ensure a peaceful, predictable environment for every child, all visits and consultations at the Matteo Center are scheduled by prior appointment.
If you are a parent navigating a rare diagnosis, a clinical or educational professional, or someone who wants to support our mission, we welcome you to connect:
- Address: Str. Garofiței nr. 22F, ap. 1, Bragadiru, Ilfov County, Romania
- Phone: +40771186006
- Email: asociatiamatteo@gmail.com
- Website: Our contact page
The September 17 opening is not just the inauguration of a building — it is the beginning of a shared journey alongside the children and families who need dedicated support the most. Thank you for being part of our community!
