A visit from Manipura

Today, we had the pleasure of hosting a visit from Manipura, an organization based in Begunje na Gorenjskem, currently hosting a group of young people from various countries through the European Solidarity Corps program. These volunteers help with activities for young people, children, and those with special needs. They also work on organic farms, in animal shelters, and support local organizations and families in need. 😍

In collaboration with PUM-O+ and Familija International Office, we had the chance to meet these inspiring volunteers and learn about their diverse cultures and the project that they are currently doing. We also shared what we do here in Škofja Loka. After the introductions, we took them to Sora, where we enjoyed a refreshing swim, made a fire, and had hotdogs. ☀️🌭🔥

We hope that some of the local youngsters got inspired to do volunteering abroad! Thank you all for a nice day! ☺️

Erasmus+ youth exchange in Belgium

Our youth center BLOK participant, Maria Sofia Tovar Brčić, with the help of Familija International Office, participated in an Erasmus+ youth exchange in Belgium from July 2 to 15, 2024, titled “What’s My Age Again?” 😵‍💫
The objectives of the training included fostering healthy discussions based on respectful listening to ensure all opinions and viewpoints were heard. Participants explored the experiences of their parents and grandparents compared to their own, engaged in an immersive experience that brought together young people from diverse backgrounds, and collaborated to create a play that would be presented publicly at the end of the project. Theater and improvisation served as the main tools for this youth exchange. 🎭
Through theatrical workshops led by a professional artist, the young participants focused on the theme of adulthood. Maria shared her impressions of the training:
“I spent two weeks in Belgium on a theater exchange program, and it was my first experience of this kind. It was truly amazing, and I highly recommend it! I made many new friends and learned a lot about theater and Belgian culture. The people were fantastic, and I wish the exchange could have lasted longer because there was so much more to explore. Overall, it was an unforgettable trip, and I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to go.” 😍
If you are interested in Europe Solidarity Corps projects or Erasmus+ youth exchanges, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will help you find opportunities! 🇪🇺

Trip to Soča Valley

This weekend our ESC volunteers with Renaldas had a trip to Soča Valley, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia! Our first stop was in Jezero Jasna in Kranjska Gora, a small crystal clear lake. Then we did some stops on the mountain Mala Mojstrovka which was on our way to the camp. It was cold but the view was outstanding! Then we finally arrived in the camp in Bovec, one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever been. This places was next to the river called Soča in the middle of nowhere. We enjoyed our lunch there (highly recommended to try leek soup, it was delicious!). In this place we did our yearly evaluation of our project but at the same time we had a lot of fun! The next day we had the opportunity to explore plenty of new places and viewpoints. From waterfalls to beaches and from gorges to fields!
 
Marina shares: I enjoyed this weekend with my whole heart! I am grateful for my 1 year journey in Slovenia surrounded by lovely people and peaceful nature. Everyone deserves at least one in their lifetime to grasp the opportunity and volunteer in this country!