Problem addressed

People with disabilities in Lithuania face significant barriers to employment, including limited access to resources, lack of inclusive support services, and societal stigmas. These challenges often result in higher unemployment rates and reduced opportunities for personal and professional growth among this population.

Innovative solution

We have developed a unique, fully online support system that is accessible to people with all types of disabilities, regardless of their location. 

Our comprehensive lectures and workshops, covering CV writing, motivational letter creation, and job interview techniques, empower participants to become independent job seekers. We emphasize independence, encouraging participants to do as much as possible on their own. Each participant is paired with a mentor who meets with them weekly. Our mentors are not necessarily disability specialists but individuals who foster an environment of equality and mutual respect. This unique mentoring approach breaks down barriers and normalizes the experience of people with disabilities, emphasizing their abilities rather than limitations.

We place a strong emphasis on mental health, incorporating dance lessons and mindfulness activities into our program. Originally established as the first dance studio for people with disabilities in Lithuania, we continue to prioritize physical and mental well-being through dance practice, which boosts self-confidence and fosters a positive mindset. Additionally, our program fosters a lasting community where participants can continue to seek advice, friendship, and support long after completing the initial program.

To keep spirits high, we emphasize the well-being of our staff, promoting an open, supportive work culture where employees can share their struggles and successes. We offer flexibility and encourage taking time off when needed, creating a positive and resilient team dedicated to our cause.

Working with individuals who face significant employment barriers can be challenging. To maintain motivation and highlight possibilities, we regularly share success stories from within our community and invite external speakers to inspire and encourage our participants. This focus on positive outcomes helps sustain motivation and belief in our mission.

Key results and benefits

• Established a supportive work environment for our staff, promoting resilience and positive morale.
• Employed four program participants in meaningful roles in our organisation.
• Fostered a lasting community where participants can seek ongoing advice, friendship, and support, creating a network of mutual assistance.
• Received consistent positive feedback from participants, who describe our environment as friendly, caring, and empowering.
• Successfully involved family members in the support process, enhancing the overall support system for participants.
• Provided real, hands-on volunteer opportunities in our organisation to enhance skills, which helped not only the participants themselves but also the team to achieve more and expand the organisation.
• 35% of participants found a job or started studying, in some cases both. 
• Improved mental health and self-confidence.
• Nearly 200 participants are now better equipped to look for jobs, create CVs, write motivational letters, and prepare for interviews.
• Achieved an impressive attendance record for workshops and events, indicating strong engagement and commitment from participants.
• Compiled the experience gathered over two and a half years into a workshop-lecture format.
• Begun sharing this knowledge with other organizations and businesses willing to work with or employ people with disabilities, expanding our impact.

Potential for mainstreaming

Our model has significant potential for mainstreaming due to its flexibility and scalability. By sharing our blueprint, resources, and best practices, other organizations can replicate our fully online, inclusive approach. Our focus on mental health, community building, and personalized mentorship can be adapted to various contexts, promoting widespread adoption of innovative support services for people with disabilities.