Back to search

Świat wodny jest dla każdego !- edycja II

2024-1-PL01-KA152-YOU-0002418942024Mobility of young peopleongoing
Countries: PL|RO · Grant: €22,930
Physical and mental health, well-beingCommunity development

Objectives

The aim of the project “The Water World is for Everyone! – second edition” was to support 24 young people from Poland and Romania in areas they themselves identified as important: mental and physical health, intercultural integration, and the development of social and personal competences. The project addressed specific needs raised by participants and was based on their engagement—from the planning stage to its completion. We intended to create a space where young people could develop in a safe, supportive environment, strengthen self-awareness, acquire new skills, and experience openness and cooperation in an international group. We also wanted to enable the participation of young people with fewer opportunities, who often lack access to similar forms of education and exchange. The project involved a diverse group of young people, including those with health challenges (also mental health), disabilities, and geographical and economic barriers. The participation of such individuals not only enriched the project but was also essential for achieving the objectives of equality, inclusion, and breaking stereotypes. Joint activities taught empathy, acceptance, and social sensitivity. One of the key goals was to care for young people’s mental wellbeing. In response to challenges deepened by the pandemic—such as isolation, stress, or anxiety—participants took part in psychological workshops which enabled them to recognize and name emotions, practice stress management techniques, and learn supportive communication. At the same time, we focused on improving participants’ physical condition. The swimming classes—conducted at the pool—were adapted to everyone’s abilities. They had not only a sports dimension, but also a rehabilitative and integrative one. Swimming served as a tool for building relationships, self-confidence, and mindfulness of others’ needs. Participants also took a first aid course and designed a social campaign warning against swimming after drinking alcohol. Posters about diving into water in unauthorized places were created. The youth also discussed the impact of swimming on mental and physical health and shared ideas on how water-based activities can be used in working with children and people with health difficulties. To consolidate results and disseminate acquired knowledge, participants co-created the e-book “Mental Health and Physical Activity”. A crucial component was also the development of soft skills—workshops on communication and self-presentation, integration activities, team games, and cultural evenings. These activities fostered relationship-building, breaking language and cultural barriers, and learning about different perspectives. The project's objectives included: – intercultural integration and developing attitudes based on tolerance and respect, – social inclusion of disadvantaged youth and breaking stereotypes, – improvement of mental and physical health, – development of social competences such as communication, cooperation, and empathy, – acquisition of practical knowledge in water safety and first aid, – boosting civic activity and a sense of empowerment. The project was implemented as intended. Thanks to the method of non-formal education, joint work, and real involvement of participants at every stage, we managed to create a space that supported development, built relationships, and made young people feel they had an impact—both on their own development and their environment. All goals were achieved, as confirmed by evaluation surveys completed by participants after the project and our final evaluation.

Project partners (2)