From July 26th to 31st, Galbiate (Italy) became a vibrant hub of adventure and cross-cultural exploration, as young participants from Denmark, Finland, Italy, Portugal, Poland, and Spain gathered to create unforgettable memories. 

Uniting for a Common Cause: The Essence and Ambitions

At its core, the Youth Exchange aimed to empower teens aged 14 to 17 by immersing them in the world of outdoor activities and inclusive sports. Together with our partner organizations, we sought to break down barriers, create lifelong connections, and provide a truly transformative experience. 

A Snapshot of Success: Highlights and Milestones

Over six incredible days, we embarked on a journey of growth and adventure. Through it all – learning survival techniques or sharing cultural treasures, we grew individually and collectively. From icebreakers that turned strangers into friends, to traditional and creative games that had us all laughing and learning, every moment was designed to bring us together. Cultural nights allowed us to savor diverse flavors and traditions, deepening our understanding of each other’s backgrounds.

Embracing Physical and Mental Challenges: A Holistic Approach

Our program had something for everyone, catering to both body and mind. From decoding body language to mastering the art of juggling, we tapped into self-expression and personal growth in creative ways. The physical challenges weren’t limited to traditional sports; we introduced inventive twists that encouraged teamwork, strategizing, and yes, plenty of laughter.

Cultural Showcases: A Feast for the Senses

Sharing our cultures was a highlight of the exchange. Cultural nights transformed into global feasts of music, dance, and flavors. Denmark, Finland, Italy, Portugal, Poland, and Spain came to life through stories and traditional dishes that sparked conversations and a deeper appreciation for our diversity.

Sporting Challenges: Taking Fun to New Heights

We reinvented the concept of classic sports games that tested our skills and teamwork in exciting ways. Volleyball took on a twist, while dodgeball brought surprises that had us strategizing and laughing in equal measure.

Impactful Adventures: Learning and Giving Back

Beyond the fun, our project also aimed to give back. We cleaned beaches, honed survival skills, and engaged with local communities, experiencing the joy of making a positive impact. Our activities promoted responsibility, teamwork, and an understanding of the world beyond ourselves.

Embracing Memories: The Final Chapter

As our journey came to an end, we celebrated our achievements by summarizing our learnings, sharing them with local Italian kids and putting them into words for the YouthPass, closing the chapters of our emotional diaries, and cherishing the moments that shaped us in heart-warming closing rituals. We left with a sense of fulfillment, carrying with us the memories of this adventure – the laughter, the challenges, and the connections – with us to fuel our journeys ahead.

Voices from the participants 

Samantha from the Italian team shared: “The thing that prompted me to participate was curiosity because I had never participated in a project of this type. I really enjoyed the activities and especially learning about new cultures.”

Nicolo from Italy says: “It was an incredible experience, I wanted to have this experience to improve my English and get to know new cultures, my expectations were absolutely met.”

Lara from Portugal shared her thoughts: “What made me join was meeting new people and improving my English. I loved the experience and would gladly repeat it, the part I liked the most was the international nights.”

Luis from Portugal says: “My personal favorite part was being able to meet other cultures and getting in touch with people very different from me, and being able to identify with them and form friendships. Above all I’ve learnt how a Youth Exchange works, what the Youth Pass is and improved my notions of multiculturalism. I would without a doubt recommend Youth Exchanges to a friend, like my friend did with me.”

A Legacy of Friendship and Adventure

A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed to the Youth Exchange. This journey has shown us that when we come together, share experiences, and celebrate diversity, magic happens.

Stay Tuned for More: The Journey Continues

The “Outdoor Activities and Sport for All” Youth Exchange has left us with memories that fuel our desire for more adventures, more learning, and more global connections. We invite you to keep your spirits high and your hearts open – who knows what incredible journeys await us next?

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S.A.L.T.O.-Youth is a network of eight Resource Centres working on European priority areas within the youth field. It is part of the Erasmus+ program, which focuses on promoting education, training, youth, and sport activities across Europe.

S.A.L.T.O.-Youth aims to support and strengthen the capacities of organisations and professionals working in the field of youth by providing training courses, networking opportunities, and resources. The network focuses on several key areas, including inclusion, participation, active citizenship, and the promotion of international cooperation and mobility.

If you are looking for opportunities to improve your skills in working with young people we suggest you take a look at these 3 training courses that will be starting in July and September 2023. 

1. “For the New Generation: Training for Group Leaders”

This training course will take place in Croatia from 21 to 30 July 2023.

It’s a project aimed at those who wish to improve their skills in the management of youth exchanges.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn effective techniques necessary for a group leader to manage group activities addressed to young participants of youth exchanges. 

The training course will focus on:

• Specific techniques on how to provide assistance in development of different competences of participants;
• How to empower participants to be able to work with young people with fewer opportunities;
• How to analyse every step and action that needed to be undertaken in each part of the projects.

All expenses of the participants (attendance, accommodation and food) will be covered by the Erasmus + program, plus the reimbursement of travel expenses up to €275 per person!

Do not miss this opportunity and apply here!
The application dead line is 1 of July 2023.

2. “Wellbeing 101”

“Wellbeing 101” is a training course that will take place in Moffat, Scotland, from 22 to 30 September 2023.

The objective of this training is to give youth workers the fundamental understanding of mental health and wellbeing.

The participants will learn specific aspects of mental health and they will be provided with the knowledge and tools to empower young people to make positive changes in their lives to increase their mental health and wellbeing.

The project will involve 30 participants from 10 different European countries (Italy, Czech Republic, Hungary, Spain, Turkey, Poland, Slovenia, Estonia, Greece, and United Kingdom). 

The association and the Erasmus+ programme will cover all the accommodation, food and travel expenses.

There is a participation fee that depends on the sending association (from €70 to €200).
Don’t miss this opportunity! Find out more about this project and send your application.
The registration deadline is 7 of July 2023.

3. “Digitalize”

The training course “Digitalize” will take place in Lithuania, from 19 to 27 July 2023.

The final goal of this training course is to address the issue of digital discrimination, which is the expression and dissemination of discriminatory content through digital means.

During this project participants will have the opportunity to learn about online educational methods, tools, and non-formal learning and some practical skills (creating informational, communication and media tools) of youth workers.

Accommodation and travel expenses are covered by the Erasmus+ programme.

Additionally, the hosting organisation will take care of the meals of the participants.
Join this training course by sending your application.
The application deadline is 7 of July 2023.

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Join the European Rural Youth Summit

L'articolo Improve Your Skills as a Youth Worker | New Training Courses proviene da Youth Networks.

The European Rural Youth Summit will take place in Panaci, Romania from 29 August to 2 September 2023. The Summit aims to strategically develop the rural youth ecosystem in Europe. It brings together young people from rural areas across Europe, youth workers, youth organisers, and decision-makers. Organised by the European Youth Village Program, this summit provides a platform for rural youth to raise their voices, share experiences, and discuss rural youth work and rural development.

Objectives of the Event

The European Rural Youth Summit has the following objectives:

– Create a space for dialogue between rural youth and decision-makers to address the challenges and opportunities facing rural areas in Europe;

– Provide a learning and participation context for rural youth to engage with experts and peers on rural development issues. This enables them to develop their knowledge and skills and promotes their role in shaping the future of Europe;

– Raise awareness about the importance of rural development and support the development of policy recommendations to improve the situation of rural youth in Europe.

The European Rural Youth Summit will be open to the following groups:

1. Rural youth from across Europe: young people aged 16-30 who live or come from rural areas in Europe. They could be students, workers, entrepreneurs, or activists who are passionate about rural development and want to make a difference in their communities;
2. Experts and practitioners: Youth workers, community organisers, and representatives of non-governmental organisations interested in scaling the European Youth Village program in their countries;
3. Policymakers and decision-makers: Representatives from the European Union, national and local governments, and organisations involved in rural development and the rural youth sector. 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of the European Rural Youth Summit. Apply by 15 June and join the event!

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The FundYOUth training course, taking place on 22-23 June 2023 in Belgrade, Serbia, aims to empower youth organisations by enhancing their ability to adapt and diversify their funding sources. In an ever-changing world, it has become crucial for youth work to be resilient and sustainable. This training course offers professionals in the field an opportunity to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for transforming resilience and sustainability into everyday reality within their organisations.

Is FundYOUth Training for You?

If you are involved in managing a youth NGO, working as a project coordinator, or responsible for areas such as fundraising, partnership building, project implementation, or strategic planning, FundYOUth is the perfect training course for you. It offers practical guidance and strategies tailored to your professional role, enabling you to enhance the resilience and growth of your organisation.

Objectives

The FundYOUth training course is designed to help you achieve the following objectives:

– Increase awareness about diverse funding opportunities;

– Strengthen understanding of own organisational capacity – where you are and what challenges and opportunities need to be tackled;

– Build strategic and tactical steps to ensure organisational resilience and growth – diversify funding, build partnerships and increase your reach and impact.

The FundYOUth training course is led by experienced youth trainers who have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by young people and youth workers. Their expertise will guide you through the training, facilitating interactive activities and fostering meaningful discussions. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded professionals, exchanging ideas and experiences in a supportive environment.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your organisation’s resilience and sustainability. Apply by 31 May 2023!

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Gomarduli Adventure Education: Methodological and Networking Seminar for ESC Professionals

L'articolo FundYOUth: Strengthening Youth Organisations through Training proviene da Youth Networks.

The International Solidarity Corps Training offers Quality Label experts a chance to expand their skills and competencies. This training course focuses on the Quality Label process and standards, catering exclusively to experts working in or for a National Agency or Regional SALTO.

Training Overview

In order to provide greater opportunities for Quality Label experts to enhance their skills and competencies, there are two registration options available:

1. Online Part Only: this option allows you to participate in the virtual training sessions and gain valuable knowledge remotely;
2. Full Course: Alternatively, you have the option to register for the full course, which includes the online phase, practice phase, and a residential training course in Luxembourg. If you plan to attend the full course, please also register for the training course in Luxembourg here.

Online Phase

The Online Introduction Phase, taking place from 19th to 21st June 2023, offers a flexible learning experience with three-hour morning sessions per day. Participants can join remotely from any location.

The Practice Online Phase runs from July to November 2023 and includes three optional online workshops focusing on program priorities. These workshops explore topics such as digital transformation, democratic participation, inclusion and diversity, and environmental protection and climate change. Benefits of the Online Introduction Phase:

1. Understanding Program Priorities: Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the program’s priorities, including environmental protection, sustainable development, digital transformation, democratic participation, and diversity and inclusion.
2. Role Reflection and Sharing: Participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their role as Quality Label experts and share their experiences with peers.
3. Supportive Community: The online introduction phase fosters a supportive community of Quality Label experts, providing peer support and opportunities for collaboration.

Following the online phase, participants will have the opportunity to attend a Residential Training Course from 7th to 11th November 2023 in Luxembourg. This immersive training experience provides a valuable opportunity for hands-on learning and networking with fellow professionals in the field. To secure your spot, make sure to submit your application by the deadline of 31st May 2023.

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SALTO Seminar on European Solidarity Corps

L'articolo Enhancing Quality Label Expertise: Solidarity Corps Training proviene da Youth Networks.

Are you interested in incorporating young people into your international activities? Do you want to learn about funding opportunities for your local projects? Join the SALTO Seminar on European Solidarity Corps: Activating Citizens – Municipalities/Local Authorities Making Use of the European Solidarity Corps.

The seminar will take place online on 13-20 June 2023 from 9:30 to 15:00 CET and is hosted by the Cyprus National Agency for E+ and ESC, the SALTO European Solidarity Corps Resource Centre, and the European Goes Local network. If you want to know more, keep reading!

Overview of the Seminar

The main aim of the seminar is to motivate and support municipalities to make use of the European Solidarity Corps Programme as a tool for social cohesion and solidarity. The seminar will explore how to bring sustainable added value to the local community by supporting the active engagement of young people in voluntary activities or solidarity projects.

The SALTO Seminar on European Solidarity Corps will:

– Present the funding opportunities of the new European Solidarity Corps Programme 2021-2027 to demonstrate how the programme works in practice.

– Highlight inspiring examples from Cyprus, other European countries, and the partner regions that illustrate how municipalities and their youngsters can benefit from the European Solidarity Corps.

– Showcase how volunteering within the European Solidarity Corps can foster social innovation, inclusion and can lead to a sustainable added value in communities.

– Offer space for networking, exchange of good practices and counseling through group work sessions.

– Present other opportunities for municipalities such as Erasmus+ and CERV that want to strengthen their existing networks through involving the young generation will be part of the seminar as well.

Target Group and Application Procedure

This seminar is recommended for a diverse range of participants including youth workers, leaders and project managers, policy makers, as well as representatives from municipalities, local authorities and youth councils and clubs.

This Seminar is for 30 participants from Erasmus+ Youth Programme countries Austria, Belgium – DE, Belgium – FL, Belgium – FR, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia. If you’re interested in participating, you can submit your application until 23/05/2023. The deadline to apply is 23 May 2023.

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ESC Buddy-Support System: SALTO SEE’s Measure for Western Balkans

NGO Sustainable: Strategies for Growing and Expanding Your NGO’s Impact

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SALTO SEE has launched a new buddy-support system to help organisations from the Western Balkans (WB) to participate in the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). This measure is designed to support the quality and quantity of volunteering projects and matches two organisations to collaborate on peer support and activate accredited organisations in the WB.

Enhancing quality and enhancing partnership creation are the two main aspects of this measure. It addresses the needs of both experienced and less experienced organisations from the WB and ESC participating countries. Read on to find out more about this exciting support measure from SALTO SEE.

SALTO SEE’s ESC Buddy-Support System

The buddy-support system includes a series of online meetings and physical visits between organisations. The process begins with match-making to establish each Buddy Support Team, which then works individually during July and August. The timeframe for the implementation of the measure is June – September 2023.

Financial stimulation is also available in the form of a 400 EUR support for the experienced organisation. Once the measure is fully implemented, the experienced organisation is required to send a final report consolidated by both partners to claim the fee.

Interested organisations can apply by filling out an application form by May 12, 2023. For more information, you can contact andrej.troha@movit.si.

L'articolo ESC Buddy-Support System: SALTO SEE’s Measure for Western Balkans proviene da Youth Networks.

If you are working in the NGO sector, you’re probably aware that it takes more than good intentions to make a real impact. Running an organisation requires dedication, skills, and a systemic approach to be able to reach your goals sustainably. Whether you are part of a young or an experienced NGO, the online course called NGO.Sustainable has something to offer to help take your organisation to the next level.

What is NGO.Sustainable?

NGO.Sustainable is an online training course designed by NGOs Synergy Bulgaria (BG), Roes Cooperativa (GR), Life Zone (EE) and FEIO (PL) to share their expertise in:

• strategic development; 
• branding and communication with target groups; 
• digital youth work; 
• international project management; 

This course is tailored to help organisations adopt a systemic approach to running an organisation. It offers a unique opportunity to learn new skills and adapt to an ever-changing context to make a real and positive impact.

By the end of the course, participants will have clarity about their next steps, feel more confident about branding and digital activities, as well as gain a new perspective on project management. In addition, you will have access to extra materials, templates, and examples of good practices in the NGO.Sustainable Library and be able to join the online FB community for personalised support.

NGO.Sustainable is a unique opportunity for young and less experienced NGOs to grow their organisations and scale their impact. Join the course today and upgrade your youth work skills to take on new opportunities and make a difference in your community.

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Connector 8.0: Non-Formal Learning for Professional Development

Report Green Inclusion: Nurturing Sustainable Development through Inclusive Practices

L'articolo NGO Sustainable: Strategies for Growing and Expanding Your NGO’s Impact proviene da Youth Networks.

Are you looking for a unique learning experience that promotes non-formal education and provides an international and multicultural context? Join Connector 8.0, an international training course organised by the Romanian National Agency. The event will take place from 3-8 July 2023 in Romania, and aims to create a space and context where participants become familiar with different non-formal learning methods that can be used in various learning contexts.

Overview of the Training Course Connector 8.0

Connector 8.0 is open to practitioners from all educational sectors, including representatives from schools, higher education, adult education, and vocational training. Other enthusiasts interested in non-formal learning are also welcome to apply.

Reasons to apply are many, for example the following:

– Expand Your Skills: connector 8.0 is a chance to become familiar with non-formal learning methods that can be used in your projects or daily learning contexts. The event will offer 8 practical workshops that promote non-formal learning with an emphasis on inclusion & diversity, green, and digital transformation.

– Experience International and Multicultural Learning: participants will have the opportunity to experience learning in an international and multicultural context. Connect with practitioners from all educational sectors, including youth workers, adult education practitioners, trainers, learning facilitators, teachers, educators, and support staff.

– Learning by Doing: the key element of Connector 8.0 is learning by doing. Participants will have the opportunity to practice different non-formal learning methods, such as debate, nonviolent communication, photovoice, forum theater, improvisation theater, storytelling, graphic facilitation, and living library.

Conclusion 

Connector 8.0 focuses on creating a collaborative space for sharing methods, instruments, practices, and efficient ideas for learning. Participants will learn how to create a proper framework to gain competencies and abilities in 2023 – the European Year of Skills. The event aims to create connections between non-formal learning and formal education, as well as a learning space with a focus on European values.

Join Connector 8.0 and expand your skills through non-formal learning. The application deadline is 14 May 2023. Don’t miss out on this unique learning opportunity!

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YOUCAN | Transnational Project Meeting in Brussels

L'articolo Connector 8.0: Non-Formal Learning for Professional Development proviene da Youth Networks.

Are you interested in enhancing your diversity management skills and anti-racist behaviours? Join the “How to be an Antiracist” training course in Malta on 4-9 September 2023. This training course aims to strengthen anti-racist and anti-discriminatory behaviours and practices among youth professionals. 

If you want to know more about this training course, keep reading!

Objectives of the training

The objectives of the training course include gaining a better understanding of what racism is, reflecting on our own biases and organisational practices, and exchanging strategies, methods, and resources for combating racism and discrimination. Participants will also learn to apply these tools and strategies to Erasmus+ Youth in Action & European Solidarity Corps projects.

Here’s what you need to know about the training course:

– There will be 25 professionals working directly with young people on a regular basis, including youth workers, youth leaders, teachers, coaches, social and health workers, and employment officers;

– Participants who work with young racialised people and/or migrant backgrounds will be given priority;

– Participants should be interested in developing their diversity management skills and anti-racist behaviours, and motivated to develop international projects addressing (anti)racism as well;

– The seminar is co-organized by SALTO Inclusion & Diversity and the Maltese National Agency for the E+ program.

Don’t miss the opportunity to attend this training course and learn how to be an antiracist. Apply by April 28th!

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L'articolo Join the “How to be an antiracist” Training Course proviene da Youth Networks.