The EcoMentors project aims to transform youth workers into stronger multipliers of eco-literacy and healthy lifestyle mentoring, equipping them with practical competences to inspire sustainable change in their communities. By focusing on both professional development and hands-on practice, the project addresses the growing need for youth workers to guide young people through climate challenges, lifestyle choices, and community action. 1. Strengthening Ecological Literacy in Youth Work We aim to increase youth workers’ knowledge of ecological systems and sustainability, targeting at least a 40% improvement in ecological literacy (measured through pre- and post-tests). Through workshops, simulations, and field visits (e.g., Gelsenkirchen Solar City), youth workers will gain deeper understanding of biodiversity, climate change, circular economy, and sustainable living. This knowledge will allow them to confidently integrate eco-literacy into workshops, local projects, and non-formal youth work methods. 2. Promoting Sustainable and Healthy Practices EcoMentors focuses on linking sustainability and well-being as core elements of youth work. At least 80% of participants will adopt three new eco-healthy practices (e.g., using reusable bottles, organizing outdoor mindful walks, running zero-waste youth events). These will be achieved through experiential learning sessions such as the Lifestyle Auction, Eco-Sport Challenge, and Eco-Action Circles. Participants will not only practice these habits but learn to transfer them into structured youth activities for their organizations. 3. Empowering Youth Workers as Eco-Mentors and Advocates We aim to train 70% of youth workers in advocacy and mentoring skills so they can lead local sustainability campaigns or integrate eco-healthy practices into their daily work. Each national team will commit to at least one post-project multiplier event (school workshop, NGO campaign, or community event). Through these, youth workers will act as role models and mentors, inspiring young people to reduce waste, promote cycling, or engage in local eco-actions. 4. Reducing Eco-Anxiety Through Action-Oriented Youth Work Youth workers often report that young people feel overwhelmed by climate change. EcoMentors will equip participants with methods to turn anxiety into action, using reflection circles, the EcoMentors Time Capsule, and resilience-based practices (e.g., mindful walks in nature). We aim for at least 75% of participants to feel more empowered and capable of addressing climate anxiety among youth in their communities, as measured through feedback surveys. 5. Creating Transferable Resources for Broader Impact Participants will co-create practical EcoMentors Outputs, such as a Digital EcoMentors Charter with tips, methods, and tools for combining sustainability with healthy living in youth work. This resource will be uploaded to partner platforms and used by NGOs, schools, and local youth councils. Each participant will also develop a personal EcoMentor Action Plan to adapt the practices to their local youth work realities, ensuring long-term transferability. 6. Encouraging Cross-Cultural and International Cooperation Through intercultural evenings, collaborative workshops, and online follow-up groups, EcoMentors will foster cross-border collaboration among youth workers. At least 20% of participants are expected to initiate joint eco-health projects after the mobility, building on the partnerships created during the training. This supports Erasmus+ goals of networking and cooperation while spreading sustainable practices across borders. 7. Recognition and Long-Term Professional Benefits On Day 7, participants will receive their Youthpass certificates in a formal award ceremony, where they will reflect on their developed competences (teamwork, digital skills, eco-literacy, mentoring, advocacy). This recognition not only documents their growth but also strengthens their career readiness. Youth workers can use Youthpass to demonstrate transferable competences when applying for NGO positions, municipal youth work roles, or international projects. The Competence Development Certificate co-signed by partners will further validate their role as trained EcoMentors. Broader Goals The broader aim of EcoMentors is to build a generation of youth workers who can combine environmental knowledge with mentoring skills to foster healthier, greener, and more resilient young communities. By strengthening competences, inspiring sustainable habits, and boosting professional recognition, the project ensures participants return home as eco-role models and mentors, multiplying the impact of Erasmus+ well beyond the mobility.