Competency Improvement for Volunteer Action

<< Background >>The decision to apply for this project arose from several needs:The IM-PROVE application was translated into German and Ukrainian to address the limited English proficiency of many volunteers. While they could communicate about daily matters, discussing more specialized topics was challenging. Additionally, with a significant influx of Ukrainian refugees in the EU, there was an urgent need to help them gain valuable work experience to improve their positions in the labour market.The Handbook was developed in response to a growing interest in sustainability among young people and the societal need to focus on these issues. Feedback from leaders highlighted challenges in accommodating various dietary restrictions during workcamps, indicating a need for comprehensive resources on cooking and meal planning. The Handbook, previously available only in English, was translated into multiple languages to ensure accessibility for all camp leaders and youth leaders, many of whom lacked high proficiency in English.Moreover, there was a clear necessity for NGOs to stay updated with current trends in social media communication to engage more volunteers effectively. However, our organisations lacked the capacity to implement these strategies.<< Objectives >>The primary goals of implementing the project were to make the IM-PROVE application accessible to a wider audience and to support Ukrainian minorities in European countries in enhancing their competitiveness in the labour market. Additionally, the project aimed to create a unified library of resources to assist campleaders and youth leaders in conducting activities and discussing sustainability issues. It also sought to support volunteer groups in cooking sustainably during workcamps while accommodating various dietary restrictions in their groups.Another objective was to increase the usability of the Handbook and its materials for youth leaders who may not have strong English skills. By providing translations, these resources became more accessible.Furthermore, the project intended to help NGOs effectively utilise social media as a primary communication tool for engaging their target groups. This was crucial for ensuring that their outreach efforts were efficient in terms of time and resources.<< Implementation >>We implemented seven activities, starting with a kick-off meeting that clarified our goals and established a detailed project plan for effective collaboration. We discussed the next steps for the IM-PROVE application, focusing on its impact and sustainability, and successfully translated it into German and Ukrainian for broader accessibility. We also expanded the Handbook by creating a resource library, developing content materials, and integrating them into the website, followed by testing and evaluation. The Handbook was translated into Slovenian, Czech, Ukrainian, and German to enhance usability. Additionally, we evaluated current social media practices and conducted expert-led training sessions to create a new strategy for engaging target audiences. Presentations of the IM-PROVE app and Handbook were organized for various groups, including volunteers and camp leaders, along with distributing flyers to schools and relevant organizations. Finally, an evaluation partners meeting was held to assess our collaboration, review project outcomes, and develop a dissemination plan.<< Results >>The project produced key outputs, including the translation of the IM-PROVE application into German and Ukrainian. This translation not only made the app more accessible to a broader audience but also laid the groundwork for its gradual transformation into a single web application, with guidance from an IT expert.The web Handbook saw the creation of two new sections:- Sustainability - Featuring materials for activities and games on sustainable practices, recycling, and links to additional sources.- Food and Cooking - Offering sustainable cooking tips, shopping advice for workcamps, strategies for using leftovers, and a cookbook with relevant recipes.The Handbook was also translated into several languages, further enhancing its usability for diverse groups.Additionally, the participating organisations developed a social media engagement strategy to promote the IM-PROVE app and web Handbook, aiming to increase visibility among target groups through effective use of social media platforms.These outputs equipped volunteers and camp leaders with essential tools while promoting a greater understanding of sustainability practices. The project ensured that both tools could be widely used by organisations working with volunteers.