What is this about?

I am fundraising to support a non-for-profit organisation in Russia “Equal Opportunities”. They work with the kids with special needs, who start life from a place of not fitting in and often – being “wronged” by own families because of their mental disabilities. These kids become cut off from social, educational, and work opportunities and not able to discover own wings, ways to relate to the world and bring out their talents. The result – as grown ups, they are often walled off comradeship and must rely on social security for survival.

Why giving money to “Equal Opportunities”?

“Equal opportunities” are unique in their approach of not “fixing“ kids but lifting them above their limitations by means of specially designed experiences in art, play, and education to build an inner sense of strength, self- appreciation and ability to contribute to have a bigger and self-reliant life. “Equal opportunities” receives less than half of annual funding (c. £120k) through grants and donations and has to self-fund the rest (e.g. through selling tickets for the art performances). More money means more staff and educational resources to accept more kids into the programmes (which are free).

Why do I do this?

I recognize now that 2 best lessons I have learned so far are:

• Everything, including life itself, starts with giving first

• Through judging others, who are not like us, we separate, through understanding – we grow.

I met the team from “Equal Opportunities” and I have seen how their work changes lives. Abroad, I have worked with the autistic colleagues, who are talented and successful, in Russia – it’s an exception, than the rule. I want to make my contribution to giving more kids a chance to shine through and come into the world with an attitude “I exist, therefore I matter and I can contribute”.

Do you want more information?

(In Russian only): www.rvmos.com