Our project had 3 main objectives: -equipping 36 adults in 6 small communities from Romania and Bulgaria with the necessary knowledge and skills that will allow them to become agents of change in their communities in terms of sustainable practices and environmental protection, by developing 8 non-formal learning opportunities using outdoor experiential learning. -promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for adults of any age and fostering a socially inclusive learning environment in which 36 learners from various backgrounds will come together in order to increase their competencies regarding the use of Outdoor Experiential Learning within their work, during the activities undertaken within the 12 months of the project. -integrating 36 adults with their proximity natural environment and developing a sense of responsibility for the environmental protection, by creating a set of best practices that can be used at European, national and regional levels showcasing the benefits of adult education through Outdoor Experiential Learning, and helping to build efficient and effective outreach methods, during the 12 months of the project.
Our motivation for this project was to address the growing disconnect between adults and the natural world, a challenge exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Adult learning often occurs indoors, leading to isolation and emotional strain. Vulnerable adults in Romania and Bulgaria, particularly in small cities, suburbs, and rural areas, faced limited opportunities for skill development due to economic and technological barriers. Our project aimed to empower these adults—key change agents in their communities—by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and experiences to promote sustainability, improve social cohesion, and foster environmental stewardship. Through Outdoor Experiential Learning, participants gained practical, inquiry-based education that balances nature with technology, enhancing both personal well-being and community impact. By training adults to serve as ambassadors for sustainable behaviors, we fostered a grassroots, community-driven approach to change. This cross-border collaboration strengthened the capacity of both partner organizations, creating long-term benefits for our communities through empowered individuals and enhanced educational methods.