This project was conceived during the annual meeting of the International Network of Inclusion of Young People with Fewer Opportunities and Highly Vulnerable Young Ones, that includes all partners. Although initially planned as part of PECO’s KA150 accreditation, which was ultimately not approved, the partners remained committed to its vision and decided to proceed with the youth exchange independently. The project aims to provide a transformative experience that combines nature-based activities with creative expression, addressing key mental health and social integration challenges faced by young people, particularly those from marginalized or disadvantaged backgrounds. The idea emerged from a conversation between a PECO volunteer with a migrant background and a Spanish volunteer on the autism spectrum. Both shared how spending time in nature and engaging with animals significantly improved their mental health, particularly after the COVID-19 lockdown. Their insights resonated with the Austrian partner, who found nature-based clubs instrumental in integrating into Austrian society, reality that paralleled the experience of PECO’s volunteer in Genova, who used expressive arts for processing emotions, building resilience and connecting with others in a meaningful way. These experiences highlighted the power of both nature and creative arts as tools for self-discovery, healing and social inclusion. Recognizing these benefits, the project incorporates mindful trekking with donkeys, symbolizing patience, connection and nurturing, alongside introspective creative practices. Through reflective, creative and nature-based workshops, during 8 days of activities, 35 participants from Italy, Hungary, Spain, Austria and Finland will have the opportunity to process their emotions, engage in self-reflection and connect deeply with themselves, their peers and the natural world. The project aims to: -Foster personal reflection & emotional well-being through mindful trekking with donkeys, creative workshops & nature immersion, aimed at enhancing mental health, self-awareness & personal growth -Promote teamwork & social integration by encouraging collaboration through shared responsibilities & cross-cultural activities, strengthening trust & mutual respect -Encourage creativity & artistic expression via workshops that help participants reflect on their journey, process emotions & express themselves through visual arts, writing & other mediums -Deepen connection to nature & animals through hands-on activities with donkeys, fostering empathy, responsibility & environmental awareness -Develop transversal skills & life competencies by providing participants with practical skills such as problem-solving, self-sufficiency & teamwork through group tasks & outdoor activities -Increase environmental awareness & action by incorporating sustainable practices throughout the mobility, encouraging participants to understand & act on environmental issues -Promote the Erasmus+ program & its opportunities by raising awareness & encouraging participants to explore its potential for personal, educational & professional development The project responds to growing mental health concerns among young people in several European countries, particularly post-pandemic. Studies indicate a significant rise in anxiety and depression among youth, with Italy's National Institute of Health reporting that nearly 20% of adolescents experienced symptoms of depression during the pandemic. However, nature-based interventions have been shown to be highly effective in mitigating these challenges, improving overall well-being and fostering emotional resilience and social inclusion. In Austria, particularly in Graz, outdoor interventions help reduce stress and integrate marginalized groups, especially migrants. In Terrassa, Spain, urban youth face heightened mental health challenges and rural nature programs offer relief by promoting resilience. Finland prioritizes outdoor education as a key component of youth well-being, contributing to high global happiness rankings. In Hungary, economic difficulties and social isolation exacerbate youth mental health struggles, but nature-based therapies are gaining recognition as a way to reduce stress and build connections. By integrating outdoor activities with expressive arts, the project offers young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, an opportunity to explore their emotions, develop resilience and express their personal journeys in a safe and empowering environment. The use of donkeys as gentle companions on mindful treks fosters patience, trust and emotional connection. Additionally, creative workshops provide a structured space for participants to articulate their experiences, process their emotions and engage in meaningful social interactions.