Through implementing this project, we aimed to achieve four main objectives. First, we sought to build the capacity of the three partner organizations to work with disadvantaged youth through methods combining art with non-formal education. Second, we wanted to develop the competencies of 30 youth workers in creating, adapting, and implementing a minimum of 30 methods that promote inclusion and help increase self-esteem. The third objective was to support the personal development of 120 disadvantaged youth, improve their confidence and communication skills, and offer them the chance to develop artistic skills through dance and stage movement (Romania), theatre (Spain), and music (Poland). Finally, we aimed to promote the inclusion of disadvantaged youth in our local communities by organizing public events that demonstrate the potential and talents of these young people.
We applied for this project, building on the success of a previous project, "Dance your way to inclusion", and recognizing the potential to develop an innovative methodology that combines art with non-formal education. The 3 partner organizations observed that while they work successfully with disadvantaged youth, traditional methods (formal and non-formal) are often accepted reluctantly by these young people, whereas artistic activities naturally succeed in attracting and engaging them. The project addressed critical needs at 3 levels. At the level of disadvantaged youth, we identified the need to have opportunities for success to build a more positive self-image, to feel accepted and connected to a group, and to have meaningful alternatives for their free time that would allow them to discover their talents and strengths. At the organizational level, we identified the need to develop our teams' capacities to work more effectively with disadvantaged youth and to expand our activity portfolio by incorporating more art forms. At the level of professionals in the field, we addressed the need for innovative methodologies that combine art with non-formal education to promote inclusion and improve the self-esteem of vulnerable youth.