By implementing the project, we wanted to promote the social inclusion of young people with fewer opportunities and strengthen the capacity of youth organizations in Spain and Portugal. Our goal was to equip youth workers with the tools and skills needed to support marginalized youth effectively and to foster active and responsible citizenship among young participants. We also aimed to build a strong network of organizations engaged in international volunteering and inclusion, especially those new to the field. Through collaboration, training, and the development of practical resources, we intended to improve the quality of youth work and encourage more organizations to take part in European initiatives. Ultimately, we wanted to empower young people, increase their participation in society, and support the development of inclusive practices that would have a lasting impact on both local and European levels.
We applied for this project because it responded to the pressing needs of organizations working with youth on both local and international levels. The participating organizations, DOTS and B-Live, shared similar objectives and had a strong need to exchange experiences and best practices. By implementing the project, we aimed to strengthen organizational capacity, enhance the quality of youth work, and establish a common framework for cooperation. The project also addressed the needs of one of our main target groups—youngsters with fewer opportunities from Spain and Portugal. It enabled them to develop personal and professional skills. Additionally, local organizations in Spain and Portugal benefited from increased capacity through volunteer involvement, cultural exchange, and new networking opportunities. The project helped raise their visibility and encouraged them to move towards a more European dimension, overcoming common challenges such as limited resources, lack of knowledge, and insufficient tools for inclusion. Overall, the project was designed to empower both young people and the organizations that support them, especially by addressing issues like unemployment, rural isolation, and the needs of NEETs.