More information
Description
The project will operate on two pillars:
- The first is the need for children to socialize and integrate into society. Throughout the program, People with Disabilities interact with each other and with their therapists and with the rest of society, as external programs are implemented that aim precisely to integrate into society, through activities that people in formal development do.
- The second pillar is that of autonomous and semi-autonomous living. The main challenge for people with disabilities is the maximum level of self-care in their current and future lives. As part of the program, there are daily activities (cooking, bathing, changing clothes), in which people with disabilities are asked to cope as best as they can on their own, in order to train them and to be able to succeed at some time.
Program participants are individuals, minors and adults with autism, mental retardation and congenital diseases.
Summary of project results
30 youth with disabilities (severe autism and others) had access to daily summer camp tailored activities, directly benefitting also their families and having their siblings join in some occasions to help maintain a healthy family bond. All the summer plan aimed at the socialization of the youth with special needs, and the promotion of their social integration. New stimuli were provided through educational and cultural excursions, allowing youth with disabilities to have regular interactions with peers in relevant social spaces. This interaction worked both ways, promoting acceptance to the wider Greek society that is not used to have people with disabilities join in entertainment activities, such as concerts. The 30 youngsters left the stricter school environment behind and fully enjoyed their summer, while reclaiming their own social space. Recommendations were also made to each venue that received them for the amelioration of its accessibility for people with disabilities.