NGO “Vidchui”
“Vidchui” is a non-governmental organization founded by Liudmyla and Andrii Pyshnyi. Since 2011, we have been systematically working on rehabilitation, assistance, socialization, and the realization of the rights of children and adults with hearing impairments and their families. We also promote a culture of caring for one’s hearing.
Over the years, the organization has implemented more than 15 nationwide projects. Among them are: an inclusive camp unique to Ukraine aimed at the socialization of children with hearing impairments; the creation of the creative space “TAM” and the “Big Bach” music class for deaf children; a series of inclusive lessons for school students called “Living Language”; and free online sign language courses for the general public.
In spring 2018, the project “When Silence Spoke” was launched. This large-scale initiative aims to draw attention to the topic of deaf and hard-of-hearing people, as well as those who are losing their hearing — more than 3 million Ukrainians. Overall, the “When Silence Spoke” project includes more than 10 initiatives, ranging from educational programs for children to social experiments involving celebrities and opinion leaders.
Vision
Every Ukrainian shares the philosophy of an inclusive society.
Objectives
- Improving the quality of special education and supporting professionals
- Building “bridges” between all groups of people with hearing impairments and society
- Developing support programs and social services for children, adults with hearing impairments, and their families at the state level
- Overcoming segregation and stigma towards people with hearing impairments and disabilities in general
- Advocating for state-funded hearing aids and expanding existing programs
- Strengthening the status of sign language and developing programs for learning it by children, professionals, and anyone interested
- Making inclusive education the priority form of education for children using hearing devices
- Supporting accessibility and barrier-free environments in Ukraine
- Developing a culture of hearing care and prevention of hearing loss
10th anniversary teen camp “Vidchui Summer”
Contact: 063-722-32-20 (Children’s Center administrator)
E-mail: vidchui@ukr.net