(ANS – Valencia) – Again this year the Salesian NGO “Jóvenes y Desarrollo” (Youth and Development) is launching the “Solidarity Initiative” campaign, promoted by the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation and Development” (AECID). It is an opportunity for  promoting educational processes for development to increase the participation and involvement of youth in solidarity activities. The closing date  for participation is Friday, May 25 2012.

“Iniciativa Solidaria” supports, recognizes and appreciates the effort which young people make, with the encouragement of their educators, teachers, families and friends, to set up small charity projects in their schools. The initiative intends that these groups should  not feel  that they are the only ones involved in bettering the situation, but  rather should see themselves more and more as collaborators in promoting change.

The best solidarity activities initiated by young people between 14 and 20 years of age are recognized.  They are offered the chance to  experience an exchange with other youngsters. From  2008 almost 40 young winners  the various years  have visited some project of cooperation for development  of the Salesian NGO  “Jóvenes y Desarrollo” (JyD).

To take part, the young people need to present some solidarity activity, fulfill the requirements listed in the notice in the VIIth edition of  Solidarity Initiative and fill in the special form.

There are three categories for entry. Category A, for the initiatives and institutions which developed their initiatives under the umbrella of JyD;  Category B, for initiatives and institutions which have not collaborated  with JyD;  and  the International Category  which applies to all the initiatives or institutions originating in other countries, whether in collaboration with JyD or not.

At the end of the competition for 2012, “Solidarity Initiative” will award a prize, two special mentions and an international mention.

The winners of Categories A and B will share the prize, which consists of a  cultural exchange visit (for a total of 10 persons) with other young people. The destination will be decided on later.

The last date for entry is Friday March 25.

Published 23/05/2012