Move & Discover Europe: Eurodesk at European Week of Sport

Title of the Project

Move & Discover Europe: Eurodesk at European Week of Sport

Organisation

Buruciye Gençlik ve Eğitim Derneği

WEBSITE

https://www.instagram.com/buruciye.ged?igsh=MXdqM2dlanVmb3RnMg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Project link

Project dates

2025-08-26

2025-12-17

What is it about?

The project “Move & Discover Europe: Eurodesk at European Week of Sport” was implemented by Buruciye GED during the European Week of Sport event in Hafik district of Sivas, a rural area where access to educational, cultural, and international opportunities remains limited. The activity aimed to bring reliable youth information directly to young people in an open, dynamic, and accessible environment where sport, nature, and social interaction come together.

A Eurodesk information stand was set up during the sports activities, attracting strong interest from young participants. Interactive games, short quizzes, and small gifts created a friendly learning atmosphere and encouraged active engagement. Young people received clear and practical information about Erasmus+, European Solidarity Corps, youth exchanges, volunteering pathways, and international learning opportunities. Eurodesk volunteers provided one-to-one guidance, answered questions, and directed participants to local contact points and online resources.

The outdoor setting allowed young people to connect physical activity with learning and social participation. Many participants joined the stand between sport sessions, discussed mobility ideas with peers, and shared their interests and future goals. Reaching young people from a rural district helped reduce information gaps and supported equal access to European opportunities.

The event strengthened cooperation with local institutions and increased the visibility of Eurodesk services in the region. The Provincial Director of Youth and Sports of Sivas visited the stand, highlighting institutional support for youth engagement and European opportunities. Visual materials, banners, and QR codes directed participants to reliable youth information channels.

Beyond information delivery, the project supported youth motivation, confidence, and openness toward international experiences. It encouraged young people to explore learning opportunities beyond their local environment and take active roles in shaping their personal and professional paths.

How is this project relevant to the specific category?

The project corresponds primarily to the Inclusive Youth Information category, as it focused on reaching young people in Hafik, a rural district of Sivas, where access to educational, cultural, and international opportunities remains limited. Many young people in the area have fewer chances to receive reliable information about European programmes, mobility opportunities, and youth participation channels. Bringing a Eurodesk stand directly to a local outdoor sports event reduced geographical, social, and informational barriers, creating equal access to youth information.

Information was delivered in a simple, visual, and interactive way through games, quizzes, and short face-to-face conversations. The open-air, informal environment provided a safe and welcoming space for questions and dialogue.

What was the impact of the project?

The project created an impact on young people and the local community in Hafik, a rural district of Sivas where access to educational, cultural, and international opportunities remains limited. Many young participants had little or no prior exposure to Erasmus+, European Solidarity Corps, or international mobility options. The Eurodesk stand provided direct access to reliable youth information in a familiar and welcoming outdoor environment.

Young people increased awareness of European programmes, volunteering pathways, and learning opportunities. Through interactive games and short discussions, complex topics became easier to understand and more attractive. Several participants expressed interest in future mobility actions, asked follow-up questions, and requested guidance on how to apply. The activity strengthened motivation, self-confidence, and openness toward international experiences.

The project also strengthened social interaction and community connection. Sports activities combined with learning created a positive atmosphere where young people connected with peers, shared ideas, and discussed future goals. Youth volunteers gained experience in communication, facilitation, and public outreach while acting as information ambassadors.

At community level, the activity increased visibility of Eurodesk services among families, local institutions, and youth organisations. The visit of the Provincial Director of Youth and Sports reinforced institutional awareness and support for youth mobility and participation initiatives. Social media sharing extended reach beyond the event day and inspired other young people in nearby districts.

Importantly, the project contributed to reducing information inequality between urban and rural youth. Bringing youth information directly to a rural setting strengthened equal opportunity, social inclusion, and access to European learning pathways. The initiative encouraged young people to view themselves as active participants in education, volunteering, and civic life, supporting long-term personal growth and community development.

Did the project have any green focus?

The project applied eco-friendly practices aligned with the outdoor and sports-based nature of the event. The Eurodesk stand was set up within the activity area, which limited transport needs for participants and reduced carbon impact. Digital promotion through social media and QR codes reduced paper use and printing waste. Game materials and visual elements were reusable and prepared from durable or recycled materials. Waste was separated during the event, and single-use plastics were minimised in cooperation with local organisers. The open-air setting encouraged appreciation of natural surroundings and responsible behaviour toward the environment. Informal conversations also linked sport, healthy lifestyles, and sustainability awareness, supporting environmentally conscious attitudes among young people. 

How did you ensure Eurodesk's visibility in your project?

Eurodesk visibility remained strong through a branded information stand, banners, and QR codes during the European Week of Sport event in rural Hafik. Interactive games, quizzes, and small gifts attracted young people and encouraged direct engagement. Volunteers introduced Eurodesk services, Erasmus+, and European Solidarity Corps opportunities through short talks and one-to-one guidance. Social media reels and photos extended reach beyond the event and increased awareness among local youth and stakeholders.

Project highlights

Your project on video

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