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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
The project aimed to address the social exclusion and lack of integration of youth with disabilities, particularly those with severe autism, in the wider community. These young people often face challenges in accessing social and recreational spaces, as well as in engaging with their peers in a meaningful way. The project sought to promote their socialization, inclusion, and active participation in community life, while also fostering greater acceptance and awareness among the general public.
The project organized a summer camp specifically tailored for 30 youth with disabilities, providing them with a range of engaging and accessible activities. These included educational and cultural excursions designed to facilitate their social integration and create opportunities for interaction with peers. Families were involved, with siblings participating in some activities, helping to strengthen family bonds. Additionally, recommendations for improving the accessibility of venues were provided, ensuring that places hosting the youth made adjustments to better accommodate individuals with disabilities.
The project enabled 30 youth with disabilities to enjoy a summer of socialization, entertainment, and personal growth, free from the restrictive school environment. They had the opportunity to interact with peers in a variety of social spaces, such as concerts, which helped normalize their presence in such settings. The project also contributed to greater social acceptance of people with disabilities within the wider Greek society. Families, especially siblings, also benefitted by strengthening their bonds, and the venues involved improved their accessibility for people with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive environment.