Description
An exciting sensation is to have the opportunity to find solution for current social issues – social exclusion and poverty – by caring about children of the Pilis Foster Home in a frame of a consecutive program with 10 sessions; and enable the succession of the volunteers for the foundation via one project. From one part, the project aims to introduce experience-based learning methods to the involved children. In the frame of the project the organization provides internship for the students of pedagogy and psychology and recruits devoted volunteers. The main goal is to decrease difficulties caused by disadvantaged socio-cultural background of these children and develop their social competences. The project involves 60 children, 40 active (incl. 20 new) volunteers, professional presenters, contributors. Apart from the benefits for the children, the students gain valuable experience for their future career. Also the presenters and the inhabitants of Pilis are concerned.
Summary of project results
The main objective of the project was to introduce therapeutic, experience based learning method to a group of children living in foster care, and to recruit members and supporters for the Foundation. The project promoter successfully introduced the learning system in the foster’s home, three child protection institutions were also involved. 17 volunteering university students were trained, and later they gave assistance for the 60 children. The project ensured a summer camp which was rich in programmes and lasted 10 weekends. All the programs fitted to the needs of participants as they were actively involved into the planning process. Drug prevention, sex education, English lessons, motivational, cultural (e.g. African) and music therapy workshops were organized. Usually a child spent 260 hours in the camp. The main benefit was the increase of social competence of the involved children that helps them to integrate to the community. The network of the organization increased.
Summary of bilateral results