Summary of project results
The importance of NGOs and the role they play in development is often underestimated in our country. Especially in rural areas of Greece, away from urban centres and the support networks that exist and operate there, public bodies often fail to offer quality and targeted social services. In these disadvantaged areas, the role of NGOs is crucial as they are called upon to fill the gaps. In order for NGOs to be able to take on that role, they are in need of capacity building and networking. The aim of the project implemented by EURACADEMY ASSOCIATION was the capacity building and effective networking of Greek NGOs operating in rural areas in order to support their role as pillars of an integrated development of rural areas, based on social cohesion, sustainable economic development, and respect for the environmental dimension. Particular emphasis was placed on social inclusion of disadvantaged groups in rural areas, particularly immigrants-refugees. The following actions were implemented: A survey to identify capacity building needs of NGOs in rural areas in Greece in order to take on the role of actors for sustainable development. An eight-day Summer Academy was organized, that brought together Greek NGOs and representatives of NGOs and experts from other countries, in order to exchange knowledge and experience. A "Capacity Building Manual for NGOs promoting the integration of migrants and refugees in rural areas" was published and is freely available on the website of Euracademy,
www.euracademy .org The project achieved its objectives by publishing the Research Report on the capacity building needs of 23 Greek NGOs active in immigrant-refugee integration issues in rural areas, offering training and networking activities to 40 participants from NGOs and development agencies, and finally by publishing a Handbook as a tool available to all stakeholders.