YMCA Europe is announcing a fourth round of funding opportunities within the framework of “Camp Europe” project initiative for 2026.
INTRODUCTION
The overall aim of “Camp Europe” is to build resilience amongst children and young people affected by the violent conflicts ongoing in and around Europe (Ukraine especially considered), to this end offering a safe space through YMCA summer camps for relief and rehabilitation, trauma-healing and integration.
In 2023 YMCA Europe launched the pilot initiative which saw 16 projects across Europe supported. And in 2024, 17 projects (out of which 10 in Ukraine proper) made sure that hundreds of kids in the different corners of our continent received quality care and support in activities that fostered engagement, entertainment and growth. The year of 2025 was no different with 16 partner YMCA organizations (12 from Ukraine; Czech Republic; Georgia; Romania & Sweden) organized 22 camp sessions for 546 participants, not counting the camp leaders and counselors.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
YMCAs in Europe that demonstrate capacities in relief and rehabilitation, trauma-healing and integration services for war affected children and young people are invited to apply.
All proposed interventions are required to fall within the above mentioned overall aim of the “Camp Europe” initiative and are to be held in the form of residential (only!) summer camps.
The maximum sum requested should not exceed 6 000 Euros. A contribution of at least 10% of the total budget is required from the applicant organizations operating in conflict affected countries and at least 40% of the total budget from the applicant partners based elsewhere in Europe.
Volunteer time and in-kind contributions will be considered as eligible and must be agreed beforehand.
A minimum 50% of direct beneficiaries of proposed projects must be war affected children, young people or IDPs (internally displaced person) living in/around war zones (e.g. Ukraine or neighbouring countries) or refugees.
For integration activities, the participation of the host community participants is anticipated and welcome, as long as their number does not exceed 50% of direct beneficiaries.
Eligible costs: board, lodging, transportation, activity costs, materials & supplies, expertise & facilitation, administration (maximum 10%).
CONTRACTING CRITERIA
Disbursement of the project funds is subject to a formal agreement to be signed between YMCA Europe and partner organization, assuming the following responsibilities for the recipient entity:
★ As part of the contracting process to provide YMCA Europe with implementation plan, timeframe and budget breakdown of granted project.
★ Upon the completion of the project to provide YMCA Europe with a narrative report, including the list of participants, summary evaluations (if available), and visual (video, photo, publications, etc.) materials.
★ Upon the completion of the project to provide YMCA Europe with financial reports, incl. the proofs of expenditure (receipts, checks, etc.) and/or audit resolution.
★ Ensure the visibility of the project with the YMCA Europe logo, as well as with the reference to YMCA camp Europe initiative to appear on any document, publication, website, etc. linked to the project.
DISBURSEMENT SCHEDULE
★ 80% of funds will be provided upon the signature of the contract and prior to the start of the project.
★ Remaining 20% of funds will be provided upon the submission and approval of financial and narrative reporting.
No cash transactions are allowed.
APPLICATION, ACTIVITY & REPORTING TIMEFRAME
★ the deadline for applications is May 31, 2026. “Camp Europe” application form is provided as an attachment to the call and is available for download.
★ Applications must be sent in electronic format to campeurope@ymcaeurope.com. selection will be carried out by YMCA Europe task force. contracting process is to be completed by June 30, 2026.
★ All projects must be finished by August 31, 2026.
★ All narrative & financial reports must be submitted by October 31, 2026. “Camp Europe” narrative & financial report forms will be provided upon project approval.
Attach 2026 Application form – Camp Europe Application Form
