Project Overview
The Erasmus+ "Enhancing Youth Participation Through Facilitation Tools" project is a two-year initiative aimed at empowering youth workers, leaders, and organizations to promote active participation and support innovative practices in youth work. Using facilitation tools and non-formal education methods, the project equips participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle challenges in local communities, while encouraging collaboration and cultural exchange at a European level.
Project Objectives
- Enhance the skills and competencies of youth workers and leaders in using facilitation tools for community development.
- Promote non-formal education as a dynamic method to engage and empower young people.
- Facilitate intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding through collaborative activities.
- Support the creation of inclusive and innovative youth work practices that address social challenges such as unemployment, discrimination, and lack of civic engagement.
- Increase the capacity of participating organizations to implement high-quality Erasmus+ projects and develop sustainable partnerships.
Expected Outcomes
- Enhanced facilitation skills and project management competencies among participants.
- Improved employability and civic engagement of youth workers and young leaders.
- Development and documentation of innovative methodologies and tools for youth work, compiled in a comprehensive guidebook.
- Strengthened networks and partnerships among European organizations, fostering future collaborations.
- Increased awareness and promotion of Erasmus+ opportunities among local and international stakeholders.
Activities
Germany: February 6–10, 2023
During this event, participants engaged in icebreaker games and group activities to establish connections and create a collaborative atmosphere. They defined their expectations, contributions, and fears, and attended an NGO fair to explore the profiles and work of partner organizations. They practiced facilitation techniques using the SALTO Youth platform and managed sessions using non-formal learning activities. The program included group discussions and interactive exercises that emphasized leadership and teamwork. The event concluded with a reflection session where participants shared their experiences and insights.
Project partners: Kultur & Art (Germany), Latvijas Jauniesu Attistibas Centrs (Latvia), UDUG (Ireland), LIDOSK (Turkey)
Türkiye: May 24–28, 2023
During this event, participants explored different learning styles through interactive workshops, icebreaker games, and group discussions. They created organization profiles at an NGO fair, participated in non-formal learning exercises from the SALTO Youth platform, and managed group activities to practice facilitation skills. The program included a "Secret Santa" activity to foster connections and a treasure hunt at a local historical site to promote teamwork and cultural interaction. The event ended with a reflection session and the presentation of Youthpass certificates.
Project partners: Kultur & Art (Germany), Latvijas Jauniesu Attistibas Centrs (Latvia), UDUG (Ireland), LIDOSK (Turkey)
Latvia: December 1–5, 2023
During this event, participants explored and applied various facilitation methods, including simulations, guided imagery, and case studies. They prepared by researching a facilitation technique and presented these techniques through interactive sessions; feedback and discussions followed the presentations. The event also included evaluation sessions to reflect on the practical applications of these methods. A collaborative project video was created to highlight the impact of the event, and Youthpass certificates recognizing the newly acquired facilitation skills were awarded to participants.
Project partners: Kultur & Art (Germany), Latvijas Jauniesu Attistibas Centrs (Latvia), UDUG (Ireland), LIDOSK (Turkey)
Ireland: June 3–7, 2024
This event emphasized advanced facilitation techniques, focusing on case studies and the use of mind mapping tools. Participants explored and applied practical facilitation methods suitable for various group needs through interactive workshops, group tasks, and experiential learning exercises. The program aimed to equip participants with innovative tools and techniques for non-formal education and encouraged the application of these tools in local and international projects.
Project partners: Kultur & Art (Germany), Latvijas Jauniesu Attistibas Centrs (Latvia), UDUG (Ireland), LIDOSK (Turkey)