Challenges faced by young people in creating and managing youth clubs or spaces in Bulgaria, Italy, and Portugal
Young people face numerous challenges in creating and managing youth clubs or spaces, particularly in rural areas of Europe and suburbs of cities. To address these challenges, a KA2 project was launched in Bulgaria, Italy, and Portugal to explore the difficulties and guide young people in creating and managing youth clubs or spaces.
The research conducted in these countries highlighted several key challenges faced by young people in creating and managing youth clubs or spaces.
One of the major challenges is the lack of funding, which makes it difficult for young people to secure the necessary resources to start and maintain youth clubs or spaces. This challenge is particularly acute in rural areas, where there is limited access to resources such as space, equipment, and materials.
Another challenge identified by the research is the lack of knowledge and skills among young people. Many young people may not have the knowledge and skills required to create and manage youth clubs or spaces, including fundraising, event planning, and community outreach. In addition, rural areas and suburban areas of cities may lack opportunities for young people to develop these skills.
The research also revealed that young people may face resistance from the community or local authorities when attempting to create youth clubs or spaces. This resistance may be due to a lack of understanding or support for the benefits of youth clubs and spaces, or concerns about potential negative impacts on the community.
Attracting and retaining members can also be a challenge for young people in creating and managing youth clubs or spaces. This challenge is particularly pronounced in rural areas and suburban areas of cities, where there may be limited population or competition from other youth clubs or spaces. To address these challenges, the KA2 project developed a youth-friendly manual on how to create and manage youth clubs or spaces, which is available for free in multiple languages, including English, Bulgarian, Portuguese, and Italian.
The project also conducted webinars, courses, and round tables to transfer competences to young people and create connections between policy makers and youngsters. Overall, the research conducted in Bulgaria, Italy, and Portugal highlights the challenges faced by young people in creating and managing youth clubs or spaces, particularly in rural areas and suburban areas of cities.
However, the KA2 project offers potential solutions to address these challenges, including the development of a youth-friendly manual and the transfer of competences to young people. Creating youth clubs and spaces can be a powerful way to promote youth engagement and community growth in these areas, and it is essential to continue supporting and empowering young people in these efforts.