PPG Completes COLORFUL COMMUNITIES Project at Support Center for People with Neurodevelopmental Disorders in France

PPG announced the completion of a COLORFUL COMMUNITIES project at La Main Tendue, an organization supporting neurodivergent people in Gonfreville, France. The initiative brought together around 40 PPG employee volunteers, association members and local partners to transform the center into a more calming, sensory-friendly environment.

The project focused on renovating and repainting nearly 100 square meters, and included the creation of dedicated sensory spaces, enhanced wayfinding through color, and decorative elements aimed at promoting well-being, orientation and emotional regulation.

Photo: PPG

PPG volunteers recently completed a COLORFUL COMMUNITIES® project that transformed La Main Tendue, an organization supporting neurodivergent people in Gonfreville, France.

PPG provided financial and material support totaling $48,000 (42,000 euros), including more than 80 liters of SEIGNEURIE® paints by PPG. These include Seigneurie Pantex Bas Carbone Satin low-carbon interior paint, formulated to help reduce the carbon footprint of building projects, and Seigneurie Elyopur Laque Satin acrylic lacquer paint with formaldehyde-capturing Air Purifying technology and EU Ecolabel certification.

In collaboration with artist Camille Fosse, volunteers also created murals and decorative elements featuring soft, minimalist designs inspired by nature. Drawing from the PPG CHROMATIC® color palette, the project incorporated soothing creams, subtle blues, soft pinks and calming neutral shades selected to help reduce visual overstimulation and create welcoming spaces. Volunteers also transformed the center’s sensory room into a dedicated retreat designed to encourage relaxation, concentration and sensory exploration.

“We are extremely grateful to PPG and everyone who mobilized alongside us,” said Amélie Viel, founder and manager of La Main Tendue. “Their support has enabled us to significantly improve the spaces; for people with neurodevelopmental disorders, a well-designed environment can make a meaningful difference to their well-being, sense of security and ability to learn and interact. These newly renovated spaces will help us provide support that is even more closely aligned with their needs.”

Founded in 2016, La Main Tendue provides practical and personalized support for children, adolescents and adults with neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as assistance for their families. Through partnerships with schools, healthcare professionals and caregivers, the organization helps individuals develop skills, gain independence and participate more fully in everyday life.

“This initiative is a concrete illustration of our values of solidarity, care and commitment to the local community,” said Gilles Maurice Massebieau, PPG plant director, Gonfreville. “Thanks to the dedication of our employee volunteers, we are helping create more welcoming and calming spaces for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. Beyond the renovation of the facilities, this is a genuine human-centered initiative that will help improve the daily lives of beneficiaries and their families.”