The Erasmus+ Youth Exchange “I want (you)th” hosted by Associazione No Borders, gathered 25 young people aged 14-18 years old and 7 youth leaders from 5 countries – Italy, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Spain and Albania. The project about volunteering, active participation and opportunities for and by young people took place in the scenic Ostello Parco Monte Barro in Galbiate, Italy from 18th to 26th September.

During 7 days of non formal education activities the participants had an opportunity to:

• learn about active participation, involvement, the difference between volunteering and activism, as well as different volunteering opportunities in local, national and European levels, such as European Solidarity corps international volunteering activities, Erasmus+ and others. 
• increase transversal skills, especially various soft skills related to communication, problem solving, time and resource management etc. 
• reflect on the personal contribution they make and can make to society through volunteering and social dialogue and the possible use of social media for raising awareness of and tackling social issues.

This was achieved by the experience of living in a multicultural community, self managed activities and non-formal education activities, like role-plays, discussions, trying out volunteering in practise with association Legambiente Lecco, participants sharing their own experiences (half of the group had previous experience volunteering while others did not), listening to good practise examples for involvement of young people in volunteering activities in Human library, sharing their culture through dances, quizzes and food in intercultural nights and self-organizing activities in the free time.

The results

As a tangible result of the project in one of the sessions devoted to volunteering practise, after getting to know the general goals and approaches of Legambiente Lecco (the manager of the hostel where the project was hosted), participants created upcycled items useful in the daily life of the hostel and the organization, such as  a sign with the name of the hostel, a birds house, holders for cutlery and pencils and a clothes hanger.

Within the project various artistic tools were used, such as theatrical performances, representing practical volunteering examples, comics creation for active youth participation processes, drawing posters for explanation of European opportunities – Erasmus+ Youth exchanges, European Solidarity corps volunteering activities and solidarity projects and DiscoverEU, as well as photos and videos.

During the mobility activity participants also created ideas for volunteering activities about topics that they care deeply about and find problematic, which they could do when returning back home, for example:

• providing activities of clothes swap every season, as well as informative campaigns focusing on the problem of fast fashion, targeting in particular young people
• organizing conferences in schools and youth centers addressing the problem of fake news and misinformation, raising media literacy of their peers.

Results from impact assessment questionnaire, which was given to all participants on the first and the last day of the exchange showed a visible increase in understanding the differences between volunteering and activism, a smaller, but still significant increase in awareness of the diverse opportunities for volunteering (at a local, national, European and international level), awareness of what are the social issues participants as individuals are mostly interested in and that I would like to address as a volunteer as well as awareness of the impact of volunteering and active participation for the society.

The voices of the participants

But what could better describe the project than the participants themselves – a few days after the project, when asked about their experience, Miriam from Italy shared that “The topic was so useful because now I know how to find opportunities on the specific topics. The thing I liked the most is learning about other people’s experience. The most challenging moments were trying to create a plan that everyone liked with all or most of the ideas that we came up with. The happiest moments were dancing in the auditorium or dancing while we were doing the dishes or even cooking”. 

Mario (Spain) says “I learned a lot about expressing myself although it was more difficult because I used a different language. I also learned that sometimes I need my space and socializing all the time is really tiring. I imagined that the most distant countries would have many differences but I saw that we are really similar in all the aspects. And I learn many things like dances, new words and expressions from the rest of the countries and that’s funny. I went to the project with a small idea about volunteering and activism and I return home with a lot of examples, ways, and ideas to contribute to our planet and society.” 

Kalina (Bulgaria) says: “During the project, I learned that living in a community is hard but not impossible when you work as a group in the activities and outside. I learned that it’s important  to be an active participant in the community you live in not only for your own personal growth but also for  the environment. One of the most challenging things I did was to break loose around the participants and during the activities, but in the end, everything just became easier, and the talk went smoother. Some of the activities were definitely more daring as they were connected with topics most of us weren’t that familiar with. Even though it was hard, the experience I got from it was something you can’t just find anywhere and the friendships you make along the way are the ones that will stay with you for the rest of your life. I got to experience other cultures, and I think that the cultural nights were my favorite. In the end, I can say that the experience I got from the project has definitely made a change in me, and I’ll definitely out for other projects.”

More thoughts about the project can be seen also in this video, created by the participants on the last day of the project activity.

L'articolo “I want (you)th”. An Erasmus+ youth exchange to create opportunities for youth proviene da Youth Networks.

The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is a program that aims to promote solidarity and volunteering in Europe. It offers young people the opportunity to volunteer or work on projects that benefit communities across the continent. To ensure the quality and impact of these projects, the ESC has launched TOSCA, a training course for organisations actively participating in volunteering actions. This article will provide an overview of TOSCA and its objectives and benefits.

Overview of the TOSCA Training Course

TOSCA is a training course designed for organisations actively participating in volunteering actions of the European Solidarity Corps. The course is recommended for: 

• youth workers; 
• trainers; 
• youth leaders; 
• youth project managers; 
• and volunteering mentors;

The training course aims to build the capacities of organisations involved in the European Solidarity Corps to design and implement projects with a view to quality. It fosters understanding, awareness, and commitment to the core quality criteria of the program. It provides clarity and support on how the program works formally and offers a space for participants to express their burning issues and needs.

When and Where TOSCA will take place

TOSCA will take place from 24-28 April 2023 in Kavala, Greece. Before the residential training course, there is a mandatory online preparatory phase from 03-17 April 2023, which includes an online meeting on 11th April (16:00-17:00 CET).

To make sure you’ll not miss this opportunity, apply by 12th of March 2023!

Conclusion

The TOSCA training course is a unique opportunity for organisations actively participating in volunteering actions of the European Solidarity Corps. It provides essential knowledge, skills, and tools to design and implement high-quality projects that make a real impact in the communities they serve. By participating in the course, you can increase your capacity and gain a better understanding of the core quality criteria of the program. So, if you’re an organisation that is committed to promoting solidarity and volunteering in Europe, sign up for TOSCA today and make a difference in your community!

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L'articolo TOSCA: Training and Support for Organisations in the European Solidarity Corps proviene da Youth Networks.

Media and Information Literacy (MIL) is a crucial component of the EU Youth Programs, particularly Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps. These programs aim to develop MIL competencies among young people and empower them through youth engagement. This article will explore the significance of MIL in EU Youth Programs and its connection to youth participation.

The Importance of MIL in EU Youth Programmes

One-third of Erasmus+ Key Actions projects focus on MIL, and the top priority for these projects is developing digital youth work. There are major gaps in MIL competencies in the areas of digital safety, ICT, and media literacy, and tackling information.

To sum up some statistics about the connection between Media and Information Literacy and EU Youth Programmes:

• 50% of Youth Participation projects focus on Media and Information Literacy (MIL), and vice versa, as critical thinking is a common transversal competence. 
• MIL is crucial for effective youth participation, particularly for disadvantaged groups, and necessary for e-participation. 
• Many projects aim to promote MIL and social inclusion. 
• Creative expression through art and media can also empower socially excluded youth and address human rights issues like hate speech.

MIL & SALTO PI

To advance MIL in the long term, better guidelines and project ideas from MIL experts and niche organisations are needed. The MIL Study Visit 2022 aims to introduce media landscape thematic area projects, develop the MIL focus of ESC Volunteering and Solidarity projects, integrate digital safety, ICT, and media literacy into KA2 projects, and promote cooperation and peace building to tackle youth radicalization.

MIL & Youth Work

When defining the quality of a project, the specific needs of different age groups are considered to be the most important factor. Young people should participate in cross-border projects as much as possible to facilitate their learning and use of critical thinking. Specialist organisations should lead MIL projects within the EU Youth Programs: especially in the areas of digital safety, ICT, and media literacy.

Finally, Media and Information Literacy is an important component of EU Youth Programs and is closely linked to youth involvement. These programmes promote the creative use of new methods of expression and critical thinking in order to provide young people with the required abilities to navigate the digital world.

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L'articolo Media and Information Literacy in EU Youth Programs proviene da Youth Networks.

The European Commission has launched a 12-week public consultation to assess the effect and implementation of Europass, a framework that delivers online tools and information to individuals to help them with their lifelong learning and career management. 

The consultation will collect information regarding the impact of Europass on the European labour market and lifelong learning initiatives, as well as assist the Commission in improving its services.

Objective of the Public Consultation

The public feedback will help to inform the ongoing assessment of the Europass Decision between 2018 and 2022. Its major goal is to collect evidence regarding Europass’s influence on the European job market and lifelong learning policy. Participant’s feedback will assist the Commission in further improving Europass services.

Everyone can participate, including:

• Europass end-users such as learners, employees, job seekers, and volunteers;
• stakeholders such as education and training providers, employers, public employment agencies, non-governmental organisations, and policymakers;
• EU stakeholder groups and operational partners are also encouraged to contribute.

Simply fill out the online form on the Commission’s “Have your say” page to participate in the consultation. The questionnaire is available in every language spoken in the EU.

The public consultation will end on February 28, 2023.

This is a fantastic chance for anyone who have used Europass to share their experiences and offer the Commission with significative input. The consultation outcomes will help to shape Europass’s future and guarantee that it continues to suit the demands of its users. So, if you have something to say about Europass, now is your chance!

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L'articolo European Commission Launches Public Consultation on Europass proviene da Youth Networks.

• sky-high energy costs; 
• inflation; 
• Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine. 

As the next generation, it is essential that young people have a say in shaping the policies that will impact their future. In order to build a fair, more inclusive, and sustainable future for all, it is necessary to listen to the voices and ideas of young people. 

That is why the European Commission has defined the European Year of Youth 2022 as an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of young people to society and encourage their active participation in the economic and political life of the EU.

Let’s take a closer look at what the challenges and the event will be like!

Current Challenges

One of the major challenges we face today is the sky-high cost of energy, which can have serious impacts on individuals, families, and communities.

The price of energy in the EU has reached record levels in 2022 due to a combination of factors, to name a few:

• the increase in global wholesale energy prices;
• the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on international demand;
• the Russian invasion of Ukraine;
• adverse climate conditions;

In 2022, the price of gas in EU has increased also as a consequence of Russia’s Suspension of gas deliveries.

Inflation is another ongoing concern, as it can erode the value of people’s savings and make it difficult for them to afford the goods and services they need. 

Finally, we cannot forget the ongoing aggression of Russia against Ukraine, which has resulted in a devastating conflict with far-reaching consequences. 

The Role of Young People in Addressing These Challenges

As young people, it is crucial that we have a say in shaping the policies that will impact our future. During the dialogue with Commissioner Dombrovskis, this questions will be discussing:

• How can we support EU citizens in coping with the immediate effects of the energy crisis and inflation? 
• How can we build a fair, more inclusive, and sustainable future for the next generation?
• How can we defend our fundamental values while strengthening cooperation with like-minded countries?

The dialogue will be live-streamed from 14:30 to 16:30 on January 10th. All young people can join and participate in this important conversation. 

It is only by coming together and sharing our ideas that we can hope to address these challenges and build a better future for all.

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L'articolo Dialogue with Young People on Energy, Inflation, and Conflict proviene da Youth Networks.

The project aimed at creating communication tools and strategies useful for those youth workers and organisations that want to use social media as tools to actively involve young people – especially those with fewer opportunities – in social and educative activities.

The Youth Exchange and the Training Course in Galbiate

To achieve this goal, we implemented a Youth Exchange and a Training Course. Both the activities took place in Galbiate (Italy), between July and October 2022. The former aimed at analyzing, together with a group of teenagers, the way in which they themselves use social media and the kind of narrations they use. The latter, instead, building on the information collected during the Youth Exchange, aimed at providing youth workers and teachers with tools to create participatory and effective social media campaigns, targeting young people.

The Project

The project addressed 2 main issues:

• Lack of technical knowledge among the youth workers: difficulties to approach platforms such as Tik Tok and Instagram, which are the most used by our target. We wanted, beyond acquiring technical knowledge, to be explained by the young people about how they use these platforms.
• Difficulties with creating content: difficulty to communicate with young people and to create social media content that can be really appealing to them. Therefore, we wanted both to develop general knowledge about social communication and to deepen, with young people, the most popular narrations and content.

Objectives of the project

The objectives of the project were:

• Providing young people with a space where to discuss and confront about the topic of social media;
• Providing young people with theoretical and practical knowledge on digital storytelling, fake news and campaigning;
• Promoting, among young people, social media as tools for social commitment, involving them in the creation of content and campaigns;
• Providing organisations, working with young people, and youth workers with general tools and competences on social media, with a focus on Instagram and Tik Tok, in order to reach young people;
• Creating tools and strategies, useful for organisations and youth workers, in order to reach and involve young people in social and volunteer activities, through social media;
• Promoting among organisations and institution, inside and outside the partnership, the use of social media as a tool for inclusion and involvement;
• Promoting good practices like the active involvement of young people in the creation of the online campaigns of the organisations;
• Offering an opportunity of intercultural learning and the possibility to know new realities and lifestyles;
• Improving the transversal and management competences of the participants, through non-formal education activities and self-management;
• Promoting the Erasmus+ programme and the opportunities offered by the European Commission.

Download the TOOLKIT.

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L'articolo Project Result | TikTok… Time for Stories Toolkit proviene da Youth Networks.

What are the objectives of the call?

• Support initiatives from at least five youth organizations from different regions spread across the EU’s and further Programme Countries’ territory to share their ideas about the EU values.
• Encourage wider civic participation and help foster a sense of European citizenship.

The budget foreseen for this call is 5.000.000 euros, and up to 500.000€ for each project!

The maximum EU co-financing rate will be 80%.

The call is not released yet, stay tuned!

To learn more about the call check the annual work programme 2020

L'articolo European Youth Together call included in the work programme 2020! proviene da Youth Networks.

Since the beginning of the ‘Erasmus+’: the Union Programme for Education, Training, Youth and Sport many things changed, but not the growing tendency of the funds for the actions under this programme! In 2014 the amount of the fund was almost 1.8 billion euro, when for this year the founds reached almost 3.4 billion euro!

The programme aims to provide over 4 million Europeans with the opportunity to gain competences and have a personal, socio-educational and professional development through studies, training, work experiences or volunteering abroad. Furthermore, the programme also fosters quality improvements, innovation, excellence and internationalisation of organisations active in education and training, youth and sport, and promotes initiatives that support policy reforms at all levels.

In the fields of education, training and youth, the Erasmus+ Programme supports three types of Key Actions:

Key Action 1: Learning mobility of individuals;

Key Action 2: Cooperation for innovation and the exchange of good practices;

Key Action 3: Support for policy reform.

As you can compare with the Annual Work Programme of “Erasmus+”: the Union Programme for Education, Training, Youth and Sport for the year 2019, these main 3 Key Actions remain the same as last year.

In addition to these three Key Actions, specific activities are also covered by Erasmus+, namely activities related to European integration through Jean Monnet and activities in the field of sport.

Through its different actions, the programme aims to reach a positive and sustainable impact on education, training, youth and sport policies and practices.

Check out the article to learn more about the opportunities supported by Erasmus +: New Erasmus+ Programme Guide!

And enjoy the possibilities we are given!

L'articolo Where the European money will go in 2020? proviene da Youth Networks.

The survey wants to make clear the role of youth organisations and how they affect the level of participation rate among young people. The final purpose is to learn where to intervene, in order to enhance the democratic life in EU.

More in details

The survey is carried out by Ecorys and aims at assessing how young people are involved in the decision-making process at European, national and local level, to ” better understand the value and contribution of EU funding”. More specifically, it wants to:

• map EU youth NGOs and networks
• assess the contribution and impact of EU funding
• identify the new trends in youth participation; and,
• make future funding recommendations.

It is part of the lager European Youth Strategy 2019-2027, under the sector “engage“.

The survey is open to all youth NGOs and networks operating within Europe, and will run until 16th August. Click on this link to take part (it takes no more than 15-20 minutes).

L'articolo EU survey for youth organisations: time to speak your mind! proviene da Youth Networks.

It will be co-hosted by the Sustainable Ocean Alliace and the university of Tromsø, with the partecipation of the Norwegian ministry of Foreign Affairs. The theme for 2019 is “Co-creating the Sustainable Blue Economy”

The summit is taking place in the framework of the “Our Ocean” Conference. The mission of the conference is to gather together all the most important stakeholders at global level involved in one of the most challenging issues of nowadays: preserving the ocean. There will be representatives of governments, industry, science and civil society, discussing and working together to find a balance between the market’s demands and the safety of the environment. The “Our Ocean” conferences were initiated by Secretary of State John Kerry in 2014, with the aim to put oceans on the foreign policy agenda and create a platform where leaders from government, business and civil society meet on an equal footing to promote action and innovation for clean, healthy and productive oceans.

The Sustainable Ocean Alliance, based in San Francisco, aims at preserving the ocean with a collective worldwide action, spreading beyond national borders. Following the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal Number 14, SOA implemented two programmes: Ocean leadership programme and Ocean solutions accelerator. The Ocean leadership programme foresees a joint action between young people from all over the world: they apply to become Ocean leaders and then they can ideate, implement and create campaigns and advocacy campaigns, through so-called Ocean solutions Hubs.

Three main topics for this fourth “Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit”: inspire, inform, empower. The participants will get the chance to build holistic solutions that better balance the needs of society, industry and the ocean environment. The participants will get the chance to:

• Participate in a solution-driven bootcamp to apply knowledge and technology that can help us protect our oceans
• Raise your profile and network with 500+ policymakers, corporate leaders, heads of international organizations, foundations, and NGOs
• Receive mentorship and develop your professional skill sets by learning from business, government, and science experts
• Meet with entrepreneurs who are building scalable ocean startups to help protect and sustain our ocean
• Become an #SOAOceanLeader and join our global community represented in over 130 countries.

Applications must be sent before July 5, 2019 11:59pm PST at the following link.

L'articolo Call for participants: Our Ocean youth leadership summit proviene da Youth Networks.