Involvement for Change - News

The "flourish" project has been successfully completed!

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:23:00 +0000

Press release.

NGO “Youth Initiative Center “Involvement for Change”” is pleased to announce the successful completion of the solidarity project “flourish” - a youth initiative dedicated to encouraging, inspiring peers, as well as youth workers, and creating a “space” for their self-growth.

What is “flourish”?

It is a youth-led solidarity project with the aim of helping young people become healthy and strong personalities, developing emotional intelligence, the ability to formulate and express an independent opinion, as well as promoting understanding of assertive communication and cooperation. Special attention is paid to young people with limited opportunities. With “to flourish” we aimed to create an environment where young people could get to know themselves, realize their strengths and experience a sense of belonging in a safe, supportive community.

The project implemented a variety of activities, including webinars and face-to-face thematic classes dedicated to personal growth, as well as the development of a new tool for self-knowledge and work with young people - the metaphorical associative cards "augt" and an accompanying booklet with reflection questions and five ideas for using the cards individually and in group work.

What are the results and benefits of the "flourish" project?

A thematic cycle of 3 face-to-face classes and 3 online webinars was implemented for young people and youth workers, providing an opportunity to explore topics such as:

“Me and my identity” (webinar, March, 2025)

“Exploring the inner world through fairy tales” (face-to-face class, April, 2025)

“Me and healthy relationships” (webinar, May, 2025)

“Expressing emotions through creativity” (face-to-face class, June, 2025)

“Me and self-growth” (webinar, July, 2025)

“Communication” (face-to-face class, August, 2025)

Three educational summary videos were developed that provide an insight into the webinar process (theoretical aspects discussed, tasks and discussion questions), which are available to anyone on the association’s website.

A unique, artistic tool for working with young people has been created - metaphorically associative cards “augt”. This set of cards is available both in digital format on the association’s website and in limited quantities in printed form. The cards and booklet are available in both Latvian and English.

The capacity of the association was strengthened, as the team gained valuable experience in independent project implementation during the project, creating activities for both young people and youth workers. The range of volunteers has been expanded.

An exchange of experience and dissemination of project results was implemented at an international level, with the cards “to grow” developed during the project “to flourish” also being introduced to the organization’s cooperation partners from Romania, using the English version of the cards in “Erasmus+” youth exchange projects.

“For us, “flourish” means the courage to grow together, both through conversations, creativity, and openness to each other, openness to the process. We wanted to give young people the feeling that they are seen, heard, and able to create change in themselves and in the world around them,” says project team coordinator Krista Kristiāna Kristapsone.

About the NGO “Youth Initiative Center “Involvement for Change””:

NGO “Youth Initiative Center “Involvement for Change”” is a non-governmental organization established in August 2023 as a result of the initiative of an active group of young people, whose mission is to strive to inspire, involve, and support every young person. Through the activities of the association, we strive to promote social inclusion, active citizenship, as well as provide opportunities for personal and professional growth for young people and youth workers.

The most important part of the association is its circle of members and volunteers - young people who are ready to express their opinions and get involved in various ways in solving issues relevant to the local community, currently paying special attention to those initiatives related to improving the overall quality of life of neurotypical and neurodiverse young people.

Contact information:

NGO “Youth Initiative Center “Involvement for Change””,

E-mail: info.involvement4change@gmail.com

Website: involvement-for-change.mozellosite.com

"Communication" - the 3rd in-person lesson of the "flourish" project has been completed

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 12:21:00 +0000

In August, the third in-person lesson for young people “Communication” of the “flourish” project took place at the “Open the Doors in Bethany” center. This meeting was both the final in-person activity of the project and a symbolic space for reflection on what we experienced, grew up and accomplished together.

We started the day with a conversation circle and metaphorical cards to feel the presence and connection with the group. Afterwards, the participants discussed the importance of communication, getting to know the principles of assertive and non-violent communication, the ability to express ourselves respectfully, while listening to others. In practical exercises, various situations and reactions were tried out, which help to better understand how to build an emotionally healthy dialogue with others.

The special event of the lesson was the presentation of the metaphorical cards “augt” - a tool created by the young people themselves, which was created during the project and is intended for use in youth work and the process of self-discovery. The first youth workers also received them to continue using them in their work with young people.

At the end of the day, there was a reflection and Youthpass certificate ceremony, where young people shared their insights about the personal growth and emotional journey they experienced during the project. As one participant shared: “This project gave me a safe space to be myself and taught me to listen – both to myself and to others. I have gained much more than I expected.”

A heartfelt thank you to all participants, facilitators and the project team for the experience and contribution they created together!

The project “flourish” is funded by the European Union. Thank you to the National Agency for supporting the solidarity project.

"Me and self-growth" - the 3rd webinar for young people of the "flourish" project has been held

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 12:18:00 +0000

In July, the third online webinar for young people “Me and self-growth” took place as part of the “flourish” project, which was dedicated to the topic of personal development and the so-called growth mindset. This session gave young people the opportunity to discuss, look at their own experience and identify what helps them grow both in thought and action.

During the webinar, participants interactively got to know and shared their associations with the concept of “self-growth”, discussing what it means for each person to be on the path to the best version of themselves. The difference between fixed and growth mindsets was examined, and each participant created their own personal SWOT analysis to identify strengths, challenges, opportunities and development directions.

The webinar also provided practical tools for personal growth and self-reflection — young people learned how to set achievable goals, overcome internal barriers and say “YES” to themselves more. As one of the participants admitted: “I learned a lot about myself and ways to continue working on myself to have the growth that I want to achieve in myself. This was a valuable and inspiring experience.”

We concluded that growth often begins with small but conscious choices, for example, with the courage to look at yourself from a new perspective and believe that change is possible.

Thank you to all the participants for your involvement and openness, as well as to the project team for their creative approach and supportive environment!

The project “to flourish” is funded by the European Union. Thank you to the National Agency for supporting the solidarity project.

"Expressing Emotions Through Creativity" - 2nd in-person lesson of the "flourish" project completed

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 12:14:00 +0000

In June, the second in-person lesson for young people of the “flourish” project “Expressing Emotions through Creativity” took place. This lesson invited participants to stop, breathe, and give space to their emotions, using art, colors, and movement as forms of expression.

The lesson began with a conversation circle, in which participants used metaphorical cards to reveal their current mood. This helped create a safe and open environment in which everyone could be authentic and heard. Then, the young people participated in a meditative painting process, where each tried to visualize their emotions through colors, shapes, and brush strokes. This experience allowed them to realize how feelings can be transformed into a visible and tangible form, each painting becoming a mirror of their inner world.

Later in the day, the participants participated in a theater workshop, in which a joint composition on the theme of emotions was created using movement and body language. This activity released spontaneity and helped them to feel more deeply how emotions are expressed through the body. At the end of the session, participants shared their insights and feelings, reflecting on what they had discovered about themselves and others.

As one participant admitted: “This session allowed me to relax for a moment, open the door to creativity and indulge in the process of understanding my emotions. It was exactly what I needed.” Another added: “This was a safe space where I felt accepted and listened to. I was able to step out of my comfort zone and discover my creative potential.”

The session confirmed how important it is to give young people the opportunity to express their emotions through art, because the creative process is not only liberating, but also healing and helps them understand themselves better.

Sincere thanks to all participants for their involvement, as well as to the project team for their warmth and support

The “flourish” project is implemented with funding from the European Union. Thank you to the National Agency for supporting the solidarity project.

This publication reflects the views and opinions only of the author and does not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union, the European Commission or the National Agency.

"Me and Healthy Relationships" - 2nd webinar for young people of the "flourish" project

Fri, 30 May 2025 12:11:00 +0000

In May, the second online session for young people, the webinar “Me and Healthy Relationships,” took place as part of the “flourish” project. This meeting continued the project’s path of self-discovery, emotional well-being, and conscious relationship building. The session took place in a friendly and safe atmosphere that allowed young people to freely share their thoughts, experience revelations, and feel the support of the community.

At the beginning of the webinar, participants got to know each other using interactive methods and associative images that encouraged reflection on the word “relationship.” Together, they explored what healthy relationships mean, both with others and with themselves. Young people discussed boundaries, empathy, and mutual respect, and created their own relationship tree, visualizing the values and beliefs that are important to them.

In the creative free writing activity, participants reflected on relationships in their everyday lives, becoming aware of the choices they make and how these relationships affect their well-being. The course also introduced the philosophy of Ubuntu – a principle of humanism and interconnectedness based on the idea “I am because we are.” It became a source of inspiration for conversations about the importance of community and the ability to be with others with empathy and respect.

Participants emphasized that this lesson helped them stop and look at relationships more broadly, to see both their own needs and the role of the people around them in their lives. One participant admitted: “Thank you for the opportunity to take time for yourself – to stop and see what is happening around me and how I feel about it. This was a real emotional benefit.” Others thanked them for the openness and safe environment in which they could freely share their thoughts and feel support from other young people.

The webinar reminded them that healthy relationships begin with the ability to listen to themselves and respect others, and that these skills can be developed step by step, consciously and with warmth.

A heartfelt thank you to all participants for their presence, as well as to the project team for the experience created together!

The project “flourish” is implemented with the funding of the European Union. Thanks to the National Agency for the support of the solidarity project.

This publication reflects only the views and opinions of the author and does not necessarily coincide with the position of the European Union, the European Commission or the National Agency

"Exploring the Inner World through Fairy Tales" - the 1st in-person lesson of the "flourish" project has been completed

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 12:06:00 +0000

In April, we met at the "Open the Doors in Bethany" center to participate in the first in-person class "Exploring the Inner World through Fairy Tales" of the youth solidarity project "flourish"! How beautiful, how creative, and what a great sense of community. For three hours, young people had the opportunity to be true in a safe environment - to get to know themselves, share their thoughts, and feel what it's like to "grow" together with others.

During the class, the participants got to know each other using associative cards, which helped open conversations and create an atmosphere full of trust. This was followed by a creative workshop with elements of fairy tale therapy, led by Krista Kristiāna Kristapsone, where the participants heard the fairy tale "Lotilko's Wings", noticed the symbols in it, and created their own "wings" - reflecting on what strengthens them and helps them feel "alive". Then, under the guidance of two occupational therapists - Polina Stolerova and Anastasija Vaičule - the young people meditated, observing their lives as the flow of a river, and got acquainted with the KAWA model - a method that allows you to depict and describe your life through the symbol of a river. At the end of the session, the participants shared their insights and reflected on their experiences, again using associative cards as a tool for deeper self-reflection.

The participants' feedback confirmed how significant and inspiring this experience was: “It was very interesting to see how everyone thinks and feels about the same activities. It allowed us to see how different we are and yet how similar.” Others emphasized that the session helped them look within themselves, find peace and a positive outlook: “After the session, I felt very calm, all negative thoughts disappeared. I gained new feelings, insights and a beautiful time with people.” Many participants admitted that the fairy tale therapy approach made them remember how much wisdom and inspiration is hidden in stories that we often consider only childhood fairy tales.

The class created a safe space where everyone could be authentic, aware of their feelings and experience a creative process in a community where there is support, compassion and interest in each other.

Sincere thanks to all participants for their presence, openness and courage to share their experiences, as well as to the facilitators and team for their hard work.

The project is funded by the European Union. Thanks to the National Agency for supporting the solidarity project “to flourish”.

This publication reflects only the views and opinions of the author and does not necessarily coincide with the position of the European Union, the European Commission or the National Agency.

"Me and my identity" - the first webinar for young people on the "flourish" project has been held

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In March, the first online lesson for young people of the "flourish" project took place, the webinar "Me and My Identity", which brought together participants from different parts of Latvia to explore the question together - who am I and how is my identity formed? The lesson took place in an informal atmosphere on the ZOOM platform.

During the webinar, young people got acquainted with the idea and approach of the "flourish" project - to create a space where you can safely explore yourself, learn through creative methods and experience personal growth. Participants got to know each other using associative images. During the lesson, young people studied the concept of "identity", performed practical tasks and worked in small groups, sharing their stories and insights.

Special attention was paid to the Johari Window method, which helps to better understand yourself, discover invisible aspects and develop openness in relationships with others. During individual activities, participants drew their potential and reflected on how they see themselves and how they want to grow further.

At the end of the webinar, young people shared their feelings and insights, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be together, learn and stop to look into themselves: “A very useful lesson with practical tasks that help you get to know yourself better. I liked that there was more of the practical part – it seemed the most valuable.”, “I took a lot of feelings from this webinar – love, warmth, gratitude and inspiration. Thank you to the leaders and the team for the atmosphere created!”, “I am grateful for the opportunity to learn the Johari Window method – it helped me understand myself better and see parts that had been hidden until now.”

The webinar created an environment where participants could consciously spend time with themselves, reflect on their identity and feel the support of the community.

Sincere thanks to all participants for their presence, involvement and courage to open up!

The “flourish” project is implemented with the funding of the European Union, and we thank the Nacional Agency for the support of the solidarity project.

This publication reflects the views and opinions of the author only and does not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union, the European Commission or the Agency for International Youth Programmes.

“to flourish” – a space to look within and discover what makes us truly alive. 🌿

"Wellbeing academy" project successfully completed

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 06:38:00 +0000

The association "Youth Initiative Center "Involvement for Change"" are happy and proud to announce the successfully concluded solidarity project "Wellbeing academy".

What is the "Wellbeing academy"?

This is a series of thematic modules for young people and youth workers aimed at exploring and practicing various aspects of wellbeing. The goal is not only to strengthen the vitality of the participants involved in the project but also, in a broader sense, to promote Latvian youth's understanding of wellbeing as a whole. As part of the project, a range of non-formal education methods, along with insightful questions and worksheets, were developed and tested, ultimately being compiled into a self-reflection tool called "notes on wellbeing." As a result of this project and the organization's work, a unique, continuous, and sustainable non-formal education activity program on wellbeing has been created, available to anyone interested in both Latvian and English (see the self-reflection tool "notes on wellbeing").

What are the results and benefits of the "Wellbeing academy" project?

1. A monthly series of sessions dedicated to the theme of well-being was implemented for young people and youth workers, based on a holistic approach. Participants had the opportunity to learn topics such as:

Wellbeing through life balancing (March 2024);
Wellbeing through creative self-expression (April 2024);
Wellbeing through healthy relationships (May 2024);
Wellbeing through connection with nature (June 2024);
Wellbeing through mindfulness (July 2024);
Wellbeing through movement (August 2024).

2. As part of the final event of the "Wellbeing academy," titled "Wellbeing practices," lessons were conducted for young people on how to plan and lead wellbeing workshops for their peers.

3. A self-reflection tool called "notes on wellbeing" was developed and made available in PDF format to anyone interested, in both Latvian and English.

4. The capacity of the "Youth Initiative Center 'Involvement for Change'" association was strengthened through the project’s implementation, increasing the number of volunteers and laying the foundation for the formation of a growing team for future activities.

5. Knowledge transfer locally was achieved, with the participants of the "Wellbeing academy" leading workshops on wellbeing within their communities (within family circles, educational institutions, extracurricular interest groups, etc.).

6. An exchange of project results and experiences at the international level was achieved. The project’s tool "notes on wellbeing" and the non-formal learning methods tested during the "Wellbeing academy" were shared with partnered organizations from Slovenia and Romania.

About the association "Youth Initiative Center 'Involvement for Change'":

The "Youth Initiative Center 'Involvement for Change'" is a non-governmental organization founded in August 2023 as a result of an initiative by an active group of young people. Its mission is to inspire, engage, and support every young person. Through the association’s activities, we strive to promote social inclusion, active citizenship, and provide opportunities for personal and professional growth for both young people and youth workers.

A significant part of the association is its members and volunteers—young people who are ready to express their opinions and get involved in various ways of addressing issues relevant to the local community. Currently, special attention is being given to initiatives aimed at improving the overall quality of life for neurotypical and neurodiverse young people.

Contact information:

Association “Youth Initiative Center “Involvement for Change””

Email: info.involvement4change@gmail.com

Website: involvement-for-change.mozellosite.com

You can obtain more information about the project and its results by contacting the association "Youth Initiative Center 'Involvement for Change.'"

The project is funded by the European Union.

Project "Wellbeing academy" closing event

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 19:00:00 +0000

Catching the last rays of the sunshine, this year on September 4th, we celebrated the solemn closing event "Wellbeing practices" of our Solidarity Project "Wellbeing academy", during which we not only took a moment to look back and reflect on everything experienced and learned during this eight-month long adventure, but also presented the self-reflection tool created as part of the project “notes on wellbeing”. In the tool you will find methods, worksheets and various questions for self-discovery from each thematic module completed in the project. Just be patient!

Before we publish the self-reflection tool "notes on wellbeing" (available in Latvian and English), we would like to dwell a little longer on fond memories and share the insights of the project participants, who are now graduates of "Wellbeing academy". Take a look at the thoughts shared by young people and youth participants at the closing event of the project!

"The biggest benefit from this project is definitely my new outlook on life, which I gained thanks to participating in the "Wellbeing academy". The experience gained in each module was "eye-opening" and really opened up new horizons. Thank you so much for this opportunity!”

"I made new acquaintances, developed my communication skills and gained inner peace and harmony."

"At the "Wellbeing academy" I not only found time for myself, but also "discovered myself" - by participating in the activities led by Krista, through various activities I saw where I lacked balance and learned how to improve it. Thank you! I strengthened myself."

"In these classes, I gained new experience, met many creative people, and got to know myself and my goals more deeply. I really appreciate the opportunity to spend time on myself.''

"My biggest benefit from participating in this project is personal and professional growth. I gained inspiration on how to work with myself and young people. The used materials, worksheets, as well as the "notes on wellbeing" tool created by the project. Thank you! I will use all of this."

"The biggest benefit gained is the courage to communicate with new people and get to know them on a deeper level, as well as revealing my thoughts and feelings to them."

"Wellbeing academy" provided a sense of community and satisfaction, inspiration and new knowledge. I learned how to cope with various challenges, while also being compassionate towards myself. An opportunity to learn in a different way."

"New knowledge and experience, self-understanding."

“I love the tool "notes on wellbeing", the little cards, the paintings and the letters I made, all these things will hold great memories.”

“Thank you for the opportunity to participate, I really enjoyed it. There were very thoughtful and interesting lessons and the organizers and participants I met were very, very nice and welcoming. Thank you very much again!!"

"Consciously devoted time to myself and met great people"

"Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the "Wellbeing academy!" This was just what I needed!”

Even though this project has ended, we are confident that the emotions, knowledge, experience gained and the connections made, will allow the "Wellbeing academy" to continue existing in another context.

Thanks for participating!

The project is funded by the European Union.

"Wellbeing academy" (No. 2023-3-LV02-ESC30-SOL-000178091)

#kopāmēsvaram #solidaritāte #manasolidaritāte #ESSolidaritātesKorpuss #EUSolidarityCorps #iespējasjauniešiem #projektijauniešiem #labbūtībasakadēmija #jspa

The 6th thematic module of the "Wellbeing academy" has been completed

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:00:00 +0000

In August, we went to picturesque Sigulda to explore the topic - “Wellbeing through movement”. An active walk, new acquaintances, sporty and artistic moments, conversations on the topic of “transformation”. What did young people and youth workers gain from participating in the 6th thematic module of the “Wellbeing academy”?

Here is a small insight into the participants' insights:

"I gained positive emotions, had a good time, learned new things about myself and others. I really enjoyed this day, thank you!"

“Participating in this module allowed me to ground myself and merge into one with nature. I gained inner peace, new like-minded people, and a strong confidence to continue striving for new heights.”

“Thank you for organizing such an event, very cool and useful. Thank you for the opportunity to participate!”

“I gained new ideas and inspiration to write poetry about.”

“Fresh air. Lovely atmosphere with people. Sharing and receiving knowledge + stories of experiences.”

The solidarity project "Wellbeing academy" (No. 2023-3-LV02-ESC30-SOL-000178091) is funded by the European Union.