New Beginnings: Initiative for Overcoming Addictions – Raising Awareness and Building New Paths for Youth

The Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project “New Beginnings: Initiative for Overcoming Addictions” (2024-1-PL01-KA152-YOU-000220301) was held in Lublin, Poland, from 9 to 16 December 2024. Coordinated by Polish Healthy Life Association, the project brought together young people from Türkiye, Austria, Italy, Romania, and Poland, with GrüneInitiative Verein participating as a partner organization. The project aimed to raise awareness about addictions, strengthen young people's social and communication skills, and promote intercultural cooperation through non-formal education methods.

One of the key components of the project focused on creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where participants could get to know each other and build meaningful connections. Through interactive ice-breaking activities, collaborative games, and cultural exchanges, young people had the opportunity to learn about different backgrounds, interests, and perspectives. These experiences helped reduce social barriers, encouraged open communication, and fostered a strong sense of group cohesion that supported the learning process throughout the exchange.

The project also provided participants with valuable insights into the Erasmus+ Programme and the Youthpass Certificate. Through interactive presentations and discussions, participants explored the opportunities offered by international mobility projects and gained a deeper understanding of the eight key competences promoted by Youthpass. These sessions encouraged active participation, strengthened public speaking skills, and increased awareness of how non-formal learning experiences can contribute to personal and professional development.

Team-based challenges, orientation activities, and collaborative tasks enabled participants to improve their problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability skills. Working together toward common goals allowed young people to experience the value of cooperation while developing confidence in unfamiliar environments. In addition, participants took part in digital dissemination activities, including social media management, content creation, and awareness campaigns, which enhanced their digital literacy and communication competencies.

A central focus of the project was increasing awareness of gambling addiction and its impact on individuals and society. Educational sessions provided participants with information about the causes, warning signs, and consequences of addictive behaviors, while real-life stories encouraged reflection and empathy. By examining personal experiences and discussing the social and emotional effects of addiction, participants developed a deeper understanding of prevention and responsible decision-making. Combined with cultural evenings and continuous evaluation activities, these experiences contributed to a rich intercultural learning environment and empowered participants to become more informed, responsible, and socially conscious young citizens.