Space for Communication
Integrative programs for children/young adults with disabilities
CSS contribution, rubles
Total budget, rubles
Implementation period, months
Project idea
The project aims to overcome isolation and normalize the lives of children and young people with mental disabilities and their families. It involves solving problems related to low social and communication skills, low public awareness and prejudices, as well as the socio-psychological problems of families.
As part of the project at the "Space for Communication" center, three programs aimed at the integration and socialization of children and young adults with mental disabilities will continue: "Playing Theater," "'Junior Club," and "Senior Club." The inclusive component in the clubs will be achieved through the involvement of volunteers and regular outings of the children into the urban environment.
Additionally, during the project period, one winter inclusive family rehabilitation camp will be held, with participants including families with children with developmental disabilities and neurotypical children.
A total of at least 35 children and young adults with developmental disabilities and their families will receive assistance as part of the project. In addition, families participating in the project will receive the necessary amount of psychological and pedagogical consultations.
Relevance
Social isolation negatively affects the psychological state of parents, as well as the emotional and physical state of children and young people with mental disabilities. Low public awareness, prejudice, and limited experience in interacting with people with developmental disabilities lead to difficulties in the urban environment, depriving families of their usual surroundings and lifestyle. This leads to a sense of helplessness, emotional decline, tension, and conflicts within the family, as well as exacerbates social and psychological problems. Children and young adults with mental disabilities experience communication difficulties; their social, emotional, and sensory experiences are limited, contributing to the emergence of additional impairments and slowing down the processes of development and skill acquisition.
Lack of or limited experience in social situations, visiting public places, and limited social connections negatively affect the quality of life of children and young people with mental disabilities and their families.
Creating conditions to overcome isolation, integrate into society, develop social and communication skills, and form positive interaction experiences between people with mental disorders and neurotypical people is the goal of the project.
Social effect
Improving the quality of life for young people with mental disabilities and their families through socialization and integration into society.
KPI
KPI
Project Results
As a result of the project, there is an improvement in the performance of children and young adults in the areas of communication, social interaction, as well as the acquisition of new skills related to daily activities and communication. For example, Polina S. learned to communicate directly with the person who approached her, while Boris V. learned to analyze his experience and share it with others.
The quality of life of families also improved thanks to their participation in community life and receiving advisory support on issues related to raising and educating children. Parents had the opportunity to consult with specialists who know their children and observe them, as well as to discuss any matters of concern in the group.
The project contributed to the development of skills in children and young people with mental disabilities, supported families during the challenging period of their children's growth, and also strengthened social ties and promoted integration into society.
Project progress after CSS funding
It is planned to continue the project, and opportunities are being sought to obtain funding through grant competitions. As part of the project, the foundation plans to focus on analyzing activities/experience and creating methodological materials.
