New Foundation by Colin Farrell Advocates for Adults with Disabilities

Colin Farrell has recently launched the Colin Farrell Foundation, a charitable organization aimed at supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. The initiative is inspired by his 20-year-old son, James, who has Angelman syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system.

In a candid interview with PEOPLE, the 48-year-old actor opened up about the challenges families face as their children with special needs grow older. Farrell emphasized the difficulties that arise when children with disabilities turn 21, often losing access to crucial support systems like special education and therapy services.

“Once your child turns 21, they’re kind of on their own,” Farrell explained. “All the safeguards that are put in place, special ed classes, that all goes away, so you’re left with a young adult who should be an integrated part of our modern society and more often than not is left behind.”

Farrell’s foundation aims to address this gap by providing innovative programs, advocacy, and educational resources for adults with intellectual disabilities. The goal is to offer greater opportunities for these individuals to achieve a sense of individuality, autonomy, and inclusion in society.

During the interview, James was seen playing catch with his caregiver, a moment that highlighted the bond between father and son. Farrell expressed his deep love and admiration for James, stating, “I want the world to be kind to James. I want the world to treat him with kindness and respect.”

Farrell also reflected on the hard work and progress James has made over the years. “He has worked so hard all his life,” he said. “I’m proud of him every day because I just think he’s magic.”

The actor shared that this is the first time he has spoken publicly about his son’s condition. He admitted that while he couldn’t ask James for his consent to share their story, he believes James would support the foundation’s mission. “This is all because of James—it’s all in his honor,” Farrell added.

The Colin Farrell Foundation represents a significant step in advocating for the rights and needs of adults with intellectual disabilities, ensuring they are not forgotten as they transition into adulthood.