An annual public awareness event titled “I Am Not Like You, But I Am One of You” was held at the “My Way” Social-Habilitation, Educational and Vocational Training Day Care Center.
The
event was organized by the Autism National Foundation in collaboration with the
Teryan Cultural Center and the “Side by Side” Inclusive Educational NGO, held within
the framework of the “Culture Is My Way” program, financed by the UNESCO
International Fund for Cultural Diversity and co-financed by AraratBank.
As
part of the event, an inclusive concert was held with the participation of
renowned musicians and beneficiaries of the “My Way” Social-Habilitation,
Educational and Vocational Training Day Care Center. An exhibition-sale
featuring paintings and decorative-applied art created by the Center's
participants offered a window into their unique world, while supporting their
creative development.
“The
program implemented by the Teryan Cultural Center, financed by the UNESCO and
co-financed by AraratBank, is not merely a form of social support — it is a
long-term, sustainable model that brings together participants, their mentors,
and parents, creating a unified platform for development and employment. Within
the program, we go beyond education by fostering independence - equipping
individuals with the skills necessary for living with dignity and earning their
own income. I am confident that within a year, this initiative will evolve into
a self-sustaining platform, presenting unique, high-quality products created by
individuals with special needs,” says Lilit Melikyan, Executive Director of the
Teryan Cultural Center.
“World
Autism Awareness Day reminds us that inclusive education begins not only with
legislative amendments, but with the willingness to recognize and accept one
another. The “Culture Is My Way” program is a powerful demonstration that art and
vocational education can serve as transformative tools for embracing people
with special needs and bringing their talents and potential to the fore. For
AraratBank, supporting this program is an expression of our belief that
diversity is a strength, and that every person has the right to live with
dignity and to create," said Anna Allahverdyan, Head of the Communication
and CSR Programs Coordination Division at AraratBank.
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