Izobraževalno-motivacijski tabori za spodbujanje mladostnikov za prevzemanje odgovornosti v mladinskih organizacijah in družbi

"<< Background >>We applied for the project in response to shortcomings in youth education, as we noticed a lack of programs that would systematically train them according to the ""train the trainers"" model. Young people often acquired knowledge, but not the skills and responsibility to pass it on. In the 16-21 age group, we noticed a decline in motivation in youth work. The project therefore addressed the need to develop an educational camp model that promotes personal growth, leadership skills, and belonging. We wanted to establish a structured mentoring system in partner organizations and ensure the sustainable transfer of experience through digital manuals. Since similar camps exist in Europe but are not connected, we wanted to combine good practices, upgrade them, and increase the visibility of such approaches. The project followed the priorities of E+, inclusion, quality of youth work, and digital transformation, and combined experiential learning with digital tools for a long-term effect. The cultural diversity of the partners (sports, arts, scouting methods) contributed to the flexibility of the model. After the camp, young people took on new roles, mentoring proved effective, and digital tools enabled the lasting transfer of knowledge.<< Objectives >>The aim of the project was to organize an educational camp for youth aged 16-21, which would enable them to acquire leadership skills, personal growth, and experience of responsibility. By creating a 9 day camp in nature, we wanted to encourage young people to become actively involved in organizations and local communities and motivate them to take on leadership roles. The project was a response to the lack of motivation and skills among young people, as we wanted them to feel empowered and able to contribute to their communities during their development. Special emphasis was placed on the development of young mentors according to the principle of ""youth for youth,"" which also enabled the transfer of knowledge. We developed 3 manuals for managers, mentors, and participants, as well as a digital tool for easier planning and financial transparency of camps. The digital format of the materials allows for their adaptation and permanent use, ensuring the transfer of experience. The cultural diversity of the partners contributed to greater innovation and transferability of the model. The project contributed to improving the quality of youth work, digital transformation, sustainability, and strengthening Eu cooperation and E+ values.<< Implementation >>As part of the project, we carried out 6 interrelated sets of activities, from preparation to dissemination. The coordination meeting in the Czech Republic lasted 3 days and focused on content planning, macro camp schedules, partner roles, and communication. The mentor training in Romania lasted 4 days and covered non-formal education methods, facilitation, conflict resolution, team building, and the preparation of micro and macro activity plans. The educational and motivational camp in Slovenia lasted 9 days for young people who acquired leadership and social skills through experiential learning, working in international groups, and a ""youth for youth"" approach. The evaluation meeting in North Macedonia included an analysis of the camp, the preparation of an evaluation report, and key insights for the manuals. The production of products included the preparation of three manuals, their digital design, printing, and dissemination for the sustainability of the project in Europe. Project coordination included coordination, research into the needs of youth organizations and preparation of the content of the manuals and their coordination with all partners. With these activities, we ensured the successful implementation of the project.<< Results >>The project results include 3 manuals for leaders, mentors, and participants of educational camps, covering methods for working in nature, in small groups and using a ""youth-to-youth"" approach. The main handbook contains theory, logistics, safety, communication and examples of good practices. The handbook for mentors is a practical tool for leading groups, motivating, resolving conflicts and building trust. The workbook for participants includes basic materials and self-reflections. We tested the materials at camp and supplemented them based on evaluations. All are digital translated and adaptable for future use. We also developed a tool for automatic calculation of logistics costs, useful for planning and reporting. We established a camp model with all phases, mentor preparation, experiential learning, reflections, evaluations and knowledge chaining, which is transferable to other organizations. Mentors and facilitators became capable of independently implementing learning processes and participants developed leadership skills and responsibility. The project strengthened the quality of youth work and partnerships between organizations and established a network for further cooperation and a knowledge transfer system."