By running the project Pokreni s(v)e!, we wanted to inspire young people, especially those without any experience in active participation, to take initiative, feel stronger, and learn how to create, prepare, and lead activities for youth in their communities. The goal was to increase the number of young people involved in planning and carrying out community activities, so they can spend their free time in a better way instead of passively sitting in front of screens, which is often linked to worse mental health. Through project activities, we wanted to give these young people (Team members) knowledge, skills, and experiences that help them gain confidence, learn civic participation, and support their personal growth. At the same time, by bringing young people together with those who work with youth and decision-makers (teachers, youth workers, institution reps, members of organizations), we gave these stakeholders direct experience of working with youth, so they can better recognize and support their initiatives. The project was based on results of research and dialogue in the Erasmus+ project Mladi,kako ste?, where 1,200 young people from Osijek-Baranja County said they worry about poor free-time quality, lower motivation and focus, and frequent feelings of sadness and anxiety. They said this is often caused by too much use of digital technology and not enough activities in their towns. Many said there are not enough options, they don’t have people to spend quality time with, and they want more teamwork, volunteering, travel, and education experiences. Because of this, in Pokreni s(v)e! we created a model where young people in small and rural areas, with mentor support and structured activities, learn how to start change and organize youth activities on their own. In 6 communities of the county (Osijek, Valpovo/Belišće, Donji Miholjac, Beli Manastir, Našice, and Đakovo with nearby villages) teams of young people were formed. They took part in training, built skills in teamwork, communication, planning, and organization, and then each team made one public event in their town. Events included workshops, sports, charity actions, volunteering, board games, talks on mental health, and debates. With project support, the youth themselves prepared and led these events. After each event, teams created a poster and video with simple instructions on how to organize such an event, so they could share knowledge with peers. These materials were shared online (monthly campaign) and live (in schools, NGOs, etc.), followed by the public through the PRONI Center website, Info-center for Youth Osijek, social media, local media, and local institutions’ websites. At the end, the clearest result was that young people, most with no past team or event experience, showed they can independently organize useful and interesting events and bring something new to the community. They personally saw that small actions can make real change: their voices can be heard, their needs expressed, and ideas turned into reality. They learned they have both the right and duty to take responsibility and be changemakers. In doing so, they gained skills important for future education, jobs, and personal growth. Communities also saw that young people need trust and support to become more active. Many took part for the first time in teamwork, presenting ideas, public speaking, talking to decision-makers, and event logistics. For them, this was a life-shaping experience, especially as many were not part of any organization before but only “consumers.” The project also had strong impact on the leading and partner organizations. We expected that knowledge about youth work and youth participation, especially in smaller towns, would increase. But beyond that, we got a chance to work directly with young people whose needs and interests change each year. We learned more about their wishes, expectations, values, and views on youth work, adults, and community life. This experience is priceless and will guide us in preparing future activities and projects. It created space for long-term action based on the real needs of youth in their communities. Activities also confirmed our belief that good quality free time, based on cooperation and creation, is key to protecting and improving youth mental health. Empowering, educating, and supporting young people is necessary if they are to take initiative and join community life.