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Green Minds: Nurturing Youth through Nature

2024-3-EL02-KA152-YOU-0002831352024Mobility of young peopleongoing
Countries: EL|TR|BA|MK|BG · Grant: €51,696
Physical and mental health, well-beingDemocracy and inclusive democratic participationEnvironment and climate change

Objectives

Many young people have been negatively impacted by increasing mental health challenges, particularly due to the disconnection from nature and urbanization. Research shows that the lack of engagement with natural environments has led to a rise in stress, anxiety, and depression among young people, especially those from marginalized communities. In addition, young people often lack access to resources that promote mental well-being and environmental sustainability, which leaves them vulnerable to ongoing health and social issues. Green Minds brings together young people from diverse backgrounds, especially those from marginalized communities, to reconnect with nature and each other. The project aims to address mental health issues through eco-therapy and mindfulness, fostering a deep sense of well-being. Participants will embark on a unique adventure of learning and growing through nature-based activities, environmental stewardship, and community-building experiences. They will explore topics related to mental health, sustainability, and social inclusion, with the goal of becoming advocates for their well-being and their environment. One of the main methods participants will engage with is nature-based learning. It's active and boosts both physical and emotional well-being, while fostering positive attitudes toward health, community, the environment, and values such as empathy, understanding, cooperation, and solidarity. Green Minds objectives are: -Green Minds objectives are: Organize a 7-day Youth Exchange to bring together 30 young people aged 18 to 30, with a focus on those facing social and economic obstacles. Participants aged 17 will also be allowed to join, provided they have parental consent. Increase lifelong learning competencies (Youthpass) and boost the self-esteem and self-confidence of participants through nature-based activities, community involvement, and eco-therapy practices. -Stimulate active participation and engagement in their communities, using outdoor learning and environmental projects as catalysts for leadership and social cohesion. -Organize Open Day Events during the youth exchange and facilitate at least 10 local actions (a minimum of 2 per country) in the follow-up period, where participants will share their experiences and promote mental well-being and environmental sustainability in their local contexts. -Create opportunities for participants to take ownership of their learning and contribute to environmental conservation efforts in their communities. -Promote the Erasmus+ program and its role in fostering inclusivity, sustainability, and active participation among young people from diverse backgrounds. By implementing these objectives, Green Minds aims to foster a sense of belonging, mental well-being, and environmental stewardship, ultimately helping young people to grow as confident, active citizens capable of making meaningful contributions to society.

Project partners (6)