From September 1st to 10th 6 boys and girl from Valdagno and Studio Progetto had the opportunity to take part in the Youth Exchange “Erasmus+ Connecting European Youth Through Sports” in the beautiful town of Arrouquelas, Rio Maior, Portugal hosted by H2O” Associação de Jovens de Arrouquelas.
“The hosting organization, “H2O” Associação de Jovens de Arrouquelas, with almost 30 years of history, hosted us in a camping area and organized an incredible program of activities that were connected with the topic.
This exchange was all about sports! It explored how sports can connect European youth and promote tolerance in our world. For 10 days, participants shared ideas and experiences on the project’s theme, engaged in various activities using non-formal education methodologies, created and presented a flashmob in public, took part in workshops and lectures, and did tons of sports activities, like tennis, paddle, surf, pilates, walking tours, and more!
We were fortunate to have the chance to participate in different cultural visits to the village of Arroquelas, the council city of Rio Maior, and the city of Peniche. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the traditions, history, and unique character of each place. The program was all about developing leadership skills and encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle. By the end of the exchange, participants had made new friends and gained a deeper understanding of European citizenship, the shared values that unite us all, and the importance of sports in our daily lives. We learned how sports can be a mechanism to achieve peace and tolerance between different peoples and cultures and increase respect between us all!
We were honored to welcome two special guests during the project: Dr. Susana Feitor, an ex-Olympic race walking athlete from Rio Maior and the Youth Councillor of Rio Maior, Mr. Miguel Santos.
And we can’t forget our wonderful sending organizations who made it all possible! Thanks to you, we got to bring Europe to this little village and spend an amazing week in Arrouquelas.
The partners:
H2O – Associação de Jovens de Arrouquelas
Studio Progetto Cooperativa Sociale
Young People in Focus
Praxis Greece
21st Greentury
World Society Builders
Tavo Europa
Centrum Współpracy Młodzieży
Active Bulgarian Society
Vibria Intercultural
MTÜ Euroopas
