The APNMI association’s original purpose was to provide normal social opportunities for the families such as birthday parties and Christmas celebrations. The necessity for other services quickly evolved but the social aspect of the group has always been an integral part of the regular activities. Local schools and doctors refer parents and teachers to APNMI and La Gaviota for counseling and advice as they learn to work with the children at home and in the school environment. As the association’s influence has grown, members have been invited to attend seminars, forums, and workshops involving the development of laws to protect persons with disabilities. Several parents and children have participated in educational and civic courses as both attendees and speakers in various programs to improve the public attitude toward persons with special needs and are regularly interviewed for television and radio programs. One APNMI child was made an honorary congressman for the state of Chihuahua and another child represented the state in the national telethon for children with disabilities.