Through this project, we aimed to support parents raising children with special needs, building on insites from previous programs for children. During those sessions, we noticed parents naturally connected while waiting for their kids. This inspired us to create a project for them, addressing their need for community and support. Our goal was to provide parents with a safe space to find understanding within peer groups while fostering their acceptance in society. By giving voice to this often-overlooked group, we aimed to empower them to share their experiences confidently. We implemented arts-based solutions such as community theater and filmmaking. These methods encourage participants to explore their challenges, build self-esteem, and realize their potential to shape their lives positively. A key element was collaborating with a German partner organization specializing in community theater. Their expertise in participatory performances helped us refine our approach and adapt their proven methods. This international exchange provided us with new perspectives and tools to enhance our project’s impact. By combining our knowledge we fostered self-expression, strengthened community bonds, and participants felt supported and valued.
Our organization’s mission is to support individuals who face various disadvantages. With this project, we aimed to address the challenges faced by families raising children with special needs. We knew about this problem through our clients from childrens camps, family programes we organised previously. The families brought their children - many of whom needid special attention - to our programs for individual care. These families often find themselves isolated within the classroom community, feeling as though they are alone in dealing with their unique challenges. This sense of isolation is compounded by the stigma they experience, as they are often blamed for the difficulties their children may face or cause in the school. When children with special needs are mistreated, negatively labeled, or ostracized, it has far-reaching consequences. Not only are their future prospects limited, but society as a whole is impacted. These children may struggle to find proper educational opportunities and face an increased risk of engaging in deviant behaviors, substance abuse, or even criminal activity. Their families, meanwhile, bear the burden of seeking out appropriate educational institutions and support, often without success.