The primary objective of the project was to support the development of young people with disabilities and to improve their quality of life through experiential and inclusive programmes. We aimed to help participants acquire new skills, strengthen their self-confidence, communication, social competences and independence, while also providing positive international experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Another important goal was the methodological development of the professionals involved and the exchange of good practices among partner organisations, with special focus on artistic, handicraft, community-based, animal-assisted, nature-based and developmental activities. During the project, we sought to compare, systematise and collect the experiences of different countries in an adaptable format; therefore, we developed a detailed, practice-oriented methodological handbook that can be used in the long term by professionals working with young people with disabilities. In addition, we aimed to promote social inclusion, increase tolerance, and support the social integration and labour market opportunities of young people with disabilities through developmental activities.
We applied for this project because all partner organisations work with young people with disabilities and special educational needs, for whom only a limited number of complex developmental and international programmes are available. The experiences of a previous project showed that experiential, artistic, handicraft and community-based activities can lead to significant improvements in young people’s communication, self-confidence and social skills even within a short period of time. At the same time, structured methodological exchange among professionals was limited, therefore there was a clear need to learn about and systematise good practices used in different countries. The project also specifically responded to the lack of development resources, as young people with disabilities rarely have access to travel opportunities, community experiences and new learning environments. Another identified need was the creation of a practical, easy-to-use methodological handbook that supports professionals in their daily work and contributes to improving the quality of life, social integration and independence of young people with disabilities.