16 NGO projects became winners of the city social project competition "Open Nizhny"

      During its existence, more than 820 organizations have participated in the competition, and nearly 400 projects have been implemented.

      Sixteen projects by Nizhny Novgorod non-profit organizations became winners of the city social project competition "Open Nizhny." This was announced by the Department of Social Communications and Youth Policy of the Nizhny Novgorod City Administration.

      According to the department director, Artur Shtoyan, the "Open Nizhny" competition has been held by the city administration since 2008 and aims to support socially significant initiatives contributing to the development of Nizhny Novgorod.

      Over the years, more than 820 organizations have participated, and about 400 projects have been carried out.

      "City Head Yuri Vladimirovich Shalabaev pays great attention to this competition. On his initiative, over 35 million rubles have been allocated in the past three years solely for the implementation of social projects through the 'Open Nizhny' grant contest, which is a significant support for public organizations. This is not only rare for municipalities but also in many regions," emphasized Artur Shtoyan.

      The competition was held across seven thematic areas: "Friendly Nizhny," "Active Nizhny," "Cultural Nizhny," "Green Nizhny," "Social Nizhny," "Patriotic Nizhny," and "Young Nizhny." A total of 45 organizations participated. Only 42 projects were admitted to the expert council meeting, where the winners were determined.

      Among the 16 finalists were projects focused on developing interethnic relations, patriotic education, family values, inclusion, as well as cultural, educational, and social activities.

      One such project is by the Nizhny Novgorod Regional Public Organization "Perspective." This NGO has been providing free social services to families raising children with visual disabilities for over 20 years. With support from the city administration, it has implemented numerous initiatives for both adults and children.

      This year, the NGO submitted the project "Nest for Little Owls" for the competition.

      "Numerous studies show that children with physical or sensory deviations find it more difficult to adapt to the educational process in school. Therefore, adaptation becomes a real challenge for such children.

      The 'Nest for Little Owls' project aims to organize sensory integration to help children maximize their body's resources, prepare for school, and become more independent.

      We are grateful to the city administration for their support and for the opportunity to use the premises provided for our center free of charge. This is a huge contribution that we truly feel and appreciate," said Galina Lipina, Executive Director of the Nizhny Novgorod Regional Public Organization "Perspective" for Parents of Children with Visual Disabilities.

      "A strong and sovereign country includes an active population and functioning civil society institutions. The 'Open Nizhny' contest, as well as projects like 'You Decide!', and other forums and events, have become effective tools for fostering citizen initiatives and non-profit organizations.

      We always look forward to bold and creative ideas from participants to improve various aspects of city life, whether solving environmental problems, strengthening intergenerational connections, or introducing innovations in the social sphere," noted Inna Vankina, Deputy of the Nizhny Novgorod City Duma of the VII Convocation.

      "The 'Open Nizhny' contest plays a vital role in our city's social life. Its popularity indicates active interest from youth and civil society organizations. The contest provides participants the opportunity not only to present their ideas but also to receive support for their implementation.

      This year, most projects focus on social support. Participants propose various initiatives aimed at helping people with disabilities, the elderly, large families, and other vulnerable groups.

      Such projects not only improve the quality of life for specific individuals but also foster a cohesive and responsible society overall, transforming the city's social space," emphasized Tatiana Druzhinina, Deputy of the Nizhny Novgorod City Duma of the VII Convocation.

      Winners of the "Open Nizhny" Social Projects Competition 2025:

      1. Autonomous Non-Profit Organization "Recovery, Development of Social Connections and Social Projects in Society Involving All Generations" – Project "Heritage of Heroes";

      2. Nizhny Novgorod Regional Public Organization of Parents of Children with Visual Disabilities "Perspective" – Project "Nest for Little Owls";

      3. Autonomous Non-Profit Charity Organization "Mercy" – Project "Not Just Lunch – Emergency Social Assistance on the Street" (Comprehensive aid to people in difficult life situations and those on the streets of Nizhny Novgorod, including long-term food storage, hygiene kits, psychological support, and assistance in cooperation with social services and NGOs);

      4. Association "Assistance to Art and Creativity" – Project "Working Lunch";

      5. Autonomous Non-Profit Creative Union "Vostorg" – Project "Together for One. Reboot";

      6. Autonomous Non-Profit Cultural Organization "Neskuchny Nizhny" – Project "Walk around Nizhny Fair";

      7. Autonomous Non-Profit Extra-Curricular Education Center "Center for Creativity Development" – Project "Find Yourself";

      8. All-Russian Public Movement "Fathers of Russia" – Project "City Father's Day 2025";

      9. Private Institution "Nizhny Novgorod Regional Center for Rehabilitating the Visually Impaired 'Kamerata' LLC-RESiS" – Project "Optimal Route";

      10. Community Organization "Local National-Cultural Autonomous Organization of Tatar of Nizhny Novgorod" – Project "Nizhny Welcomes";

      11. Autonomous Non-Profit Agency "Agency for the Development of Children's and Youth Project Activities and Initiatives 'Diada'" – Project "Mirror of the City";

      12. Nizhny Novgorod Regional Public Organization of Disabled People "Social Rehabilitation" – Project "Family Code: Literacy + Resilience";

      13. Nizhny Novgorod Regional Public Organization "Family Center 'LADA'" – Project "Young Family. Focus on Wellbeing";

      14. Alumni Association of Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N.I. Lobachevsky – Project "Path to Tomorrow. Values-Oriented Youth: From Crisis to Future Formation";

      15. Nizhny Novgorod Regional Charitable Public Organization "Care" – Project "Young Innovators Forum";

      16. Prioksky District Public Organization of Veterans (Retirees) of War, Labor, Armed Forces, and Law Enforcement Agencies of Nizhny Novgorod – Project "Frontline Triangles".