I’m Just Like You inclusive charity festival backed by Gazprom held in Astrakhan

From February 27 to March 1, Pushkin Children’s Health Center in Astrakhan hosted the inclusive charity festival I’m Just Like You. The festival was organized by Gazprom, Gazprom Energo and Gazprom Dobycha Astrakhan, with the assistance of OGK-2. The project brought together over 100 children from 15 different institutions, including schools, a cadet school, and boarding schools for children with special learning needs.

“We are doing important work together, and it resonates with many people who are involved in the project, which stimulates you to support and carry out such inclusive events,” said Roman Dyatlov, Director General of Gazprom Energo.

During the festival, children took part in various creative and sporting events and workshops. The three-day summer camp program included educational and recreational activities suited for children with special needs.

“What makes this project important is its uniqueness. It allows children with disabilities to integrate into a community of their non-disabled peers, gets them involved in the creative process, sports and leisure activities and also shows the inner strength and belief of these children,” said Ekaterina Volgutskova, festival coordinator and director of Boarding School No. 1.

The festival culminated in the gala concert Colors of the Big City, which saw 22 creative teams perform in various genres on the stage of the gas company’s head office.