“Society Without Limitations”
Goal: To contribute to the protection of the educational and labor rights and interests of persons with disabilities in Vanadzor through public awareness-raising and attitude change.
Duration: 4 months, August–November 2014
Target group: 100 persons with disabilities and 100 persons without disabilities
Location: Vanadzor
Within the framework of the “Society Without Limitations” project, a survey was conducted among 100 persons without disabilities to identify their attitudes and perceptions toward persons with disabilities.
During the project, two social videos were produced on the educational and labor rights of persons with disabilities: “Social Video_I wish that” and “Social_Video_My name is.” Awareness-raising meetings were also organized for persons with disabilities and their family members on the above-mentioned topics.
A flash mob was also organized in Artsakh Park in Vanadzor, during which the organization’s volunteers performed the song “We Are the World” in Armenian sign language. During the flash mob, informational materials about the organization were distributed to citizens.
As part of the project, home visits were conducted to the residences of persons with disabilities to identify their problems and needs and to disseminate information about the “Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities” organization.
At the end of the project, a final event was organized with the participation of representatives of Lori regional and local self-government bodies, as well as project beneficiaries. During the event, the project activities and achieved results were presented.
Results
Awareness of the issues faced by persons with disabilities increased within the community.
The survey identified the attitudes and perceptions of persons without disabilities toward persons with disabilities.
The home visits helped identify the main problems and needs of persons with disabilities.
Public awareness of the activities and services provided by the “Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities” organization increased.
Through the flash mob and other public events, an inclusive and positive attitude toward persons with disabilities was promoted, and the importance of spreading Armenian sign language was emphasized.
At the end of the project, the activities and achieved results were presented to stakeholders, contributing to the creation of opportunities for further cooperation.
The “Society Without Limitations” project was implemented within the framework of a grant program aimed at the protection of the rights and interests of persons with disabilities, raising public awareness, and changing attitudes. The project was funded by the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) and supported by Bridge of Hope, Mission East, and SKARP NGOs.