More information
Description
Since 2015 Sihtasutus Omanäolise Kooli Arenduskeskus has led a program called STEP which deals with young people aged 15-29 who have committed a misdemeanor or criminal offence. In the program special consultants help them to find a job or a suitable educational path. STEP- program brings together young people, responsible employers, educational institutions, third sector organizations and public authorities. The problem STEP program relieves: NEET youths between the ages of 15 to 29, who have a criminal background are in danger of being marginalized because of their past. Compared to their peers, they are more likely to be unemployed. This in turn increases thechances they will commit new crimes, which is why programs like STEP have a critical importance in preventing new illegal activities from happening. The aim of the project “STEP-programmi vabatahtlike kogukonna loomine” is to involve young people with an offense background in the labor market, to give them independence and to keep them active through voluntary work and social contribution.
Summary of project results
Currently, the STEP program is the only program in Estonia that specifically supports NEET youths between the ages of 15 to 29, who have a criminal background and are in danger of being marginalized because of their past. Youth with such backgrounds are among the most vulnerable groups in society. This is because social injustice, stigmatization, and negative attitudes make it difficult for them to integrate into society and succeed in the job market.
According to the young people themselves and based on five years of experience from STEP program specialists, it has become clear that, in addition to employment, these youth need mentors, opportunities for leisure activities, hobbies, skill development, integration into prosocial relationships, and more. Many organizations and individuals are willing to provide such opportunities on a voluntary basis. Therefore, it is essential to identify these people for the STEP program and coordinate their efforts in a targeted manner.
The project for establishing the STEP program’s volunteer community was primarily based on collaboration with various stakeholders and network-building. The goal was to involve as many volunteers as possible, including young people, individuals, and organizations, to support the STEP program. A database and a structured system were created to assist in counseling young people with a background of legal offenses.
During the project:
- New volunteers were engaged, and various events were organized to maintain and motivate the community.
- A volunteer database was created for the STEP program, regularly updated, and used to establish and sustain cooperation with other volunteer organizations.
As a result of the project, 54 volunteers were engaged, new collaborations were established with 8 organizations, and 4 volunteer engagement events were conducted, along with several other volunteer-oriented activities.
As a result of the project:
- A volunteer database was created for the STEP program.
- A volunteer engagement strategy was developed and formalized.
- Methods for utilizing various marketing channels to attract volunteers were carefully planned.
- Volunteers'' knowledge was enhanced regarding young people with a background of legal offenses, the causes of inappropriate behavior, the impact of close networks, and the principles of restorative justice.
- Public attitudes were positively influenced, reinforcing the idea that young people with a history of legal offenses are part of society. Collaboration with them and providing them with opportunities contribute to a safer society and help these young people find their path.