Implementation period: June 2024 – May 2025
Funding source: Funded by the European Union and implemented under the Open Lithuania Foundation’s „Verta!“ program.
Project title: Development of Strategic Activities at Panevėžys Autism Association „Lietaus vaikai“
Project goal:
To provide autistic youth with opportunities to develop independence, social, and self-expression skills through a long-term volunteering program, as well as to disseminate quality information about autism in order to help shift public attitudes towards the learning needs of autistic children and youth.
Problem addressed:
Autistic youth face significant socialization challenges due to difficulties in social interaction, a lack of understanding of social norms, and limited communication skills. Society often lacks knowledge about Autism Spectrum Disorder, which can lead to harmful stereotypes and hinder appropriate responses to the individual needs of autistic people. The organization “Lietaus vaikai” aims to bridge this gap by raising awareness and providing targeted support to autistic youth.
Main activities:
Adaptation of the BBBS Program: A volunteer-based program in Panevėžys will be developed for autistic youth, modeled on the Big Brother Big Sister approach, aimed at improving communication and independence skills.
Communication Campaign: Spreading information about autism and its challenges across Panevėžys County using various communication channels and educational tools.
Educational Program: Development of a training program promoting understanding of neurodiversity and human rights, aimed at both the general public and professionals.
Geographic scope: The project will be implemented in Panevėžys city and county.
Expected results:
At least 5 autistic youth will participate in a long-term volunteer program to strengthen their communication and independence skills.
A team of 10–15 volunteers will be trained and prepared to work with autistic youth.
EU values training will be provided to at least 20 participants.
Awareness of communication channels will increase by 20%.
A podcast on autism-related topics will be launched (1 episode per quarter).
A quality assessment tool for informational content will be integrated into the website, with quarterly data analysis.
Internal communication will be strengthened (1 newsletter per month).
An educational program on neurodiversity and human rights will be developed and delivered to at least 60 participants.
Project budget: €29,970.00
