The Hands to Earth project aims to empower young people by reconnecting them with nature and fostering environmental stewardship through creative, sustainable practices. Our primary objective is to equip participants with the skills to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable lifestyles. The project uses non-formal education to engage youth in eco-building, creative expression, and intercultural collaboration, encouraging them to co-create solutions for environmental and personal well-being.
From the youth work perspective, our key objectives are:
Empowering Youth with Eco-Skills: Through hands-on eco-construction workshops, participants will develop practical skills in sustainable building techniques, empowering them to bring these skills back to their local communities and implement eco-friendly solutions.
Promoting Social Inclusion and Cultural Exchange: We aim to create an inclusive space where youth from diverse socio-economic backgrounds can collaborate, share their cultures, and exchange ideas about sustainability and community living.
Encouraging Self-Expression and Personal Growth: Creative workshops in art, storytelling, and reflection will help participants explore their personal relationship with nature, fostering emotional resilience and personal development.
Raising Environmental Awareness and Advocacy: Participants will deepen their understanding of environmental issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss, motivating them to become advocates for sustainability in their communities.
Building European Cooperation in Youth Work: Strengthening ties between youth organizations across Europe will help build a network of young leaders committed to sustainability and intercultural collaboration, laying the foundation for future partnerships and projects.
Activities
Hands to Earth is a hands-on youth exchange focused on sustainability, eco-building, and creative expression. Over 15 days, participants will engage in practical workshops, cultural exchange, and reflective activities that promote environmental awareness and personal growth.
Key Activities:
Eco-building Workshops: Core activities where participants will learn and practice sustainable building techniques using clay and other natural materials. These sessions will teach participants how to construct eco-friendly structures that can be applied in their own communities.
Permaculture and Sustainable Living: Workshops on permaculture principles and food sustainability, where participants will engage in community gardening and learn how to promote biodiversity and reduce waste.
Creative Expression Workshops: Participants will explore their connection to nature through art, storytelling, and creative activities, fostering self-expression and emotional resilience.
Community Living: Living together in Catfarm’s eco-community, participants will experience sustainable living firsthand, sharing responsibilities like cooking, waste management, and decision-making.
Reflection Sessions: Daily reflection sessions using journaling and group discussions to help participants process their learning experiences, fostering personal and social growth.
Cultural Exchange Evenings: Each country will host a cultural evening where participants share their traditions, food, and stories, promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding.
Profile of Participants:
38 young people aged 18-30 from six countries: France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Georgia, and Poland. Each group will consist of six participants, including young people from disadvantaged backgrounds facing economic, social, or geographical challenges.
Youth Leaders: Each group will be led by a youth leader who will support the participants throughout the project, facilitating communication and group cohesion.
Inclusion Focus: Special attention will be given to participants with fewer opportunities, ensuring diversity and fostering an inclusive environment where all participants feel valued.
Impact
The Hands to Earth project will have a lasting impact on participants, partner organizations, and local communities, fostering environmental awareness, youth empowerment, and social inclusion. The expected outcomes are:
Increased Environmental Awareness and Practical Eco-Skills: Participants will gain hands-on experience in eco-building, permaculture, and sustainable living. Through workshops and daily activities, they will acquire practical knowledge that can be applied in their own communities. This will empower them to implement eco-friendly solutions, promoting sustainability locally and regionally.
Empowerment of Youth as Environmental Leaders: Participants will develop leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. They will be encouraged to take initiative, lead activities, and facilitate workshops. This experience will enhance their confidence and motivate them to advocate for environmental issues, initiate sustainability projects, and become active citizens in their communities.
Strengthened Social and Cultural Connections: Living in an eco-community with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds will enhance participants' intercultural competence. Through cultural exchange evenings and collaborative workshops, they will build empathy and understanding across borders. These connections will promote European solidarity and foster future collaboration on environmental and social projects.
Social Inclusion and Opportunities for Disadvantaged Youth: The project will prioritize young people with fewer opportunities, such as those facing social or economic challenges. These participants will gain valuable skills and experiences, which will boost their personal development and career prospects. By promoting social inclusion, the project will create an equitable environment where all participants feel valued.
Development of Long-term Partnerships and Networks: Hands to Earth will strengthen the relationships between partner organizations, creating a foundation for future collaborations on youth and environmental projects. An international network of eco-conscious young leaders and organizations will emerge, fostering long-term cooperation and sharing of best practices in sustainability and youth work.
Increased Visibility and Public Awareness of Sustainable Living: A robust dissemination strategy, including social media campaigns, blog posts, videos, and presentations, will raise awareness of sustainable practices. These efforts will inspire others to adopt eco-friendly behaviors and contribute to environmental responsibility. Project materials and resources will be made openly accessible to ensure a wide reach beyond the immediate participants.
Follow-up and Sustainability Beyond the Project: After the exchange, participants will engage in follow-up activities, sharing their knowledge through local workshops and campaigns. Online platforms and meetings will maintain collaboration and ensure the ongoing application of the skills and knowledge gained. This follow-up will help sustain the project's impact and foster long-term changes in behavior and community involvement.
Coordinator: Catfarm Education
• Start date 01-01-2025 • End date 31-12-2025
• Colectivo Circo Zaragoza 🇪🇸 Spain • Cooperativa sociale IL FARO 🇮🇹 Italy • Gaia Education Europe AISBL 🇧🇪 Belgium • Hopeland 🇬🇷 Greece • Stichting Adventures of the Valparaiso 🇳🇱 Netherlands
2024-3-FR02-KA152-YOU-000282250