Youth Matters Camp: A Space Where Young Leaders Grow

What happens when you bring together diverse young people to live, learn, and lead side by side for a whole week?

At YMCA Boyarka, this question found its answer during the summer camp Youth Matters Camp – a week full of growth, friendship, and hope.

The stationary camp gathered different youth from Boyarka community. Each of them came with their own story, yet shared the same desire – to develop as leaders, to make new connections, and to experience a sense of belonging that YMCA creates.

Throughout the week, participants took part in leadership exercises, team-building challenges, and creative workshops that encouraged communication, responsibility and empathy. Every activity was designed to empower young people to discover their strengths and to believe that their voices truly matter.

The camp took place in a peaceful natural setting, surrounded by mountains and fresh air – a much-needed space of calm in times when many Ukrainian young people live under the constant pressure of war.

For many participants, Youth Matters Camp became a place to rest from daily stress and frequent shelling, to finally sleep peacefully, and to simply be themselves again.

> “Of all the camps I’ve ever been to, this one is the best”

> “I didn’t even have time to look at my phone”

> “This was the highlight of my summer”

Beyond the games, hiking, and campfires, Youth Matters Camp reminded everyone that leadership starts with connection with others, with nature, and with ourselves.

At YMCA Boyarka, Youth Matters Camp was not just a summer program. It was a space of safety, inspiration, and the belief that young people matter – today, and for the future of Ukraine.

YMCA Camp Europe: Bringing Joy and Learning to Children

This summer, the YMCA Starý Plzenec has hosted two remarkable camps, “Adventure Under Sail” and “Harry Potter Camp,” bringing together children from both the Czech Republic and Ukraine. These camps were designed not only to foster joy and connection through play and creativity but also to support English learning in a natural and immersive way, with most activities being bilingual (Czech and English).

“Adventure Under Sail” – July 1st to 4th at Orlík Dam

The “Adventure Under Sail” camp kicked off with a delicious pizzeria lunch and a visit to the Orlík aquarium, followed by a relaxing stroll through the castle park. The group then boarded a steamboat to the Podskalí campsite. After settling into their cabins, the children embarked on their first sailing adventure on three boats: Captain Ron, Korkorán, and Sea Devil. The day concluded with swimming and a cozy lakeside barbecue.

The second day involved a longer journey across the lake to the Trhovky campsite, filled with calm and joyful sailing. Upon arrival, the kids cooled off with a swim and enjoyed lunch at a local restaurant. The afternoon saw everyone enthusiastically trying paddleboarding, many for the first time. The day was rounded off with ice cream, laughter, and more bonding time around the evening grill.

On the third day, the children began to learn real sailing skills, practicing raising sails, steering boats, and utilizing the wind. Their quick learning and mutual encouragement were inspiring. Later, the group focused on fishing, showing great excitement. A calm return to camp was followed by more swimming and quiet moments to enjoy the surroundings.

The final day brought great success in fishing, with two large asp fish, each around 60 cm, caught to the thrill of the entire group. Everyone admired the catch before a final swim. It was then time to pack up, bid farewell to the boats, and head home, full of cherished memories, new friendships, and a little more sun in their hearts.

“Harry Potter Camp” – July 7th to 11th in Starý Plzenec

The “Harry Potter Camp” began each day with movement and music, featuring warm-up and dance sessions to songs inspired by the magical world of Harry Potter. Throughout the week, children will engage in team games, creative workshops, and sports activities, all linked to the story’s universe.

On the very first day, children received their letters from Hogwarts and officially began their journey as young witches and wizards. The Sorting Hat placed them into the four Hogwarts houses, where they will earn points for their teams by demonstrating helpfulness, creativity, bravery, and fairness throughout the week.

Together, they established a set of camp rules, learning that breaking them could lead to house points being deducted, a fun and engaging way to build shared responsibility. Later, they ventured into the forest on a quest to find their own magic wands. After lunch, the children personalized and decorated their wands, transforming natural branches into unique magical tools.

To conclude the day, a short excerpt from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was watched to set the mood, and the children began writing a script for their very own theatre play based on the story. Their imagination and enthusiasm are already shining, promising more magic to come.

It is worth mentioning that YMCA in the Czech Republic is preparing two more sessions of Camps within Camp Europe 2025.

Written by Kristina Volkova, YMCA Starý Plzenec

Relight the Fire: The Friendship Torch Story

If you had told me a few months ago that I would be relighting a 99-year-old torch, I might have smiled politely and nodded. However, here I am — holding a symbol that had once lit the night sky in 1926, passed from hand to hand at the first post-war YMCA World Conference in Helsinki.

My hands are steady, the participants silent… it’s time to relight the torch! This moment at the closing ceremony of a summer camp here in Kosovo was quiet, but it carried the weight of nearly a century of hope, pain, peacebuilding, and above all — friendship.

The story of the “Friendship Torch” begins in a time of great upheaval. It was 1926, just after the devastation of World War I. Representatives from 52 nations gathered to ask difficult questions, including: How can the YMCA be involved in peace-building and prevent future conflicts? This wasn’t just a conference. It was a turning point. For the first time, young people were full delegates instead of a parallel conference. For the first time, speeches gave way to small groups and shared voices… then on the final night, they lit a fire — a literal one — called the Fire of Friendship.

Senior leaders passed torches to the younger generation. One by one, the boys raised their flames and declared in their own languages:
“We leave this fire with a vision of a great Christian fellowship, conscious of difference but resolved to love.” — Shedd, 1955

That fire has flickered quietly for decades. One of those torches, signed by international friends, found a home in Greater Des Moines Y Camp, where it stayed as a focal point of youth programming for 99 years.

Earlier this year, in a moment that was completely unexpected, I received the torch from my friend Alex Kretzinger, Y Camp Director, with the blessing of Vardan Hambardzumyan, YMCA Europe at the Campacity training. The torch passed to Kosovo and it’s not just a heritage item. It’s a challenge. A reminder. A question asked 99 years ago that still echoes loudly in our times:
How will we be the bridge? How will we be involved in peace building?

As the relit torch passed around the circle of young people, at the first summer camp.in Kosovo it was a special and unique moment. I am sure this torch was relit many times at the Y Camp in Iowa but seeing it now pass around young people in Kosovo for the first time is a moment (and story) we will tell for many years to come.

Written by Adrian Davies, Camp Europe Media Consultant

Open Call to Host: YMCA Campacity 2026

Be the next destination for Europe’s most inspiring YMCA camp gathering!

DEADLINE: May 18th 2025

We’re inviting applications to host the 3rd edition of YMCA Campacity, an international camping conference that connects YMCA leaders and camp professionals from across Europe and the USA. After energizing editions in Spain (2024) and Germany (2025), we’re looking ahead to 2026 — and your YMCA could be the next home for this growing community!

🌍 About YMCA Campacity

Campacity is more than just a camping conference — it’s a space for exchange, learning, collaboration, and inspiration. Each year, around 80 participants gather to share best practices, develop new ideas, and explore the power of camp as a tool for social impact.

The 2026 edition will continue to spotlight:

YMCA organizations currently providing services — or planning to — for people affected by conflict, especially in response to the war in Ukraine and its wider effects.
YMCA camps (day or overnight) actively serving communities or preparing to launch new programs.
The role of camp in healing, resilience-building, and peace-making for youth and families.

🧭 Who Can Host?

We welcome proposals from YMCA camps, centers, or associations in Europe who are ready to help shape this unique international experience.

Ideal hosts will:

Provide accommodation (on-site or nearby) for ~80 participants
Have indoor workshop/meeting space and outdoor activity areas
Be connected to camping work and/or humanitarian youth services
Be accessible for international travel
Be eager to collaborate with the Campacity planning team
Be able to apply for co-financing (either locally, nationally or through Erasmus+)

📅 Timing

Campacity 2026 will be held between March and April 2026, with final dates to be confirmed together with the host.

🤝 What Does Hosting Involve?

As host, your YMCA will:

Lead the logistical planning and delivery of the event (food, transport, rooms etc)
Share your own camp/associations work within the program
Organise transport and instructions for attendees travelling from near and far
Having a staff/volunteer team available to ensure smooth running and support
Joining the international planning team 5-6 months in advance of the event
Assisting YMCA Europe with merchandise, evening activities and cultural exposure
Capacity to apply for co financing (example Erasmus+)

We’re looking for a host that’s ready to contribute energy, creativity, and vision — and we’re here to support you along the way.

📬 How to Apply

Interested in hosting? Submit your expression of interest by May 18th to campeurope@ymcaeurope.com .

Your proposal should include:

A short introduction to your YMCA site or camp
Why you’re interested in hosting Campacity
Your ideas for cultural exposure or activities during the 2026 edition
Details on accommodation, facilities and transport

DEADLINE: May 18th 2025

Links to previous Campacity Editions
YMCA Campacity Conference 2025 in Germany
YMCA Camp Europe Campacity Conference 2024 in Spain

YMCA Campacity Conference 2025 in Germany

Campacity 2025 took place from March 27 – 30 in Brandenburg am Havel, Germany. The third annual camp capacity building conference was held in PerspektivFabrik Camp, involving 65 participants from 16 countries. Made possible through the joint efforts of YMCA Europe and YMCA of the USA, Campacity 2025 brought together passionate camp leaders to share experiences and practices with a special focus on trauma healing and resilience building for refugees affected by conflict.

Prior to the conference, the planning team and US delegates had a chance to spend three days in Berlin for the pre-event gathering, from March 24-27, hosted by YMCA Germany with a warm welcome from Juan Simoes Iglesias, Secretary General of YMCA Europe, Gerhard Wiebe, International Executive Officer, and Hansjörg Kopp, General Secretary of CVJM Germany. The pre-event days in Berlin involved meetings with major funding-partner of YMCA Europe – Bread for the World, to showcase the impact of the long-lasting partnership and discuss future goals for cooperation. YMCA of the USA partook in a City Quest and had the opportunity to visit Berlin YMCA where they learned about the youth and community work the association led and their impressive tree-house camps. YMCA Europe Executive Secretary Vardan Hambardzumyan introduced the “Do No Harm” methodology focused on conflict sensitivity to aid organizations. One of the highlights of the pre-event was the gathering in the Chapel of Reconciliation and joint contemplation upon the recent shared history and the significance of the work we do during the times of division, mistrust and widespread hate.

Campacity 2025 commenced with positive energy and readiness to share expertise, learn from one another, and reinforce the common mission and vision for YMCA camps worldwide. Participants had the opportunity to engage in interactive workshops ranging from creating inclusive environments, trauma awareness, staff and volunteer recruitment to Bringing Philanthropic Culture, Strategic Planning, camp building and sending and receiving international counselors and campers. There was also a variety of sharing from across the European continent from Northern Ireland to North Macedonia and beyond to Georgia!

Other highlights included the Camp marketplace where each camp showcased their programs, merch and activities and a joint cultural night hosted by CVJM. This saw over 110 participants from Campacity but also the team from the host camp and members from the local YMCA in Brandenburg partake in classic German games, cultural dances And a silent auction with funds raised for YMCA Ukraine.

To close out the cultural evening Alex from Iowa presented a 1936 friendship touch that had travelled from a peace event in Helsinki, Finland to his camp in Iowa- where it had remained. He presented this to Executive Secretary Vardan Hambardzumyan, who then passed the torch on to YMCA Kosovo in a symbolic moment of heritage, togetherness and friendship. The torch will visit the camp in Pjetershan, Kosovo before moving on to another camp in the world- Traditions started and passed on at this year’s Campacity!

We also had excellent plenary sessions led by YMCA Europe and YMCA Ukraine- with a stark reminder of the realities our YMCAs continue to face. There was an International partnership panel which highlighted camp partnerships all around the globe from San Diego to Peru, Kosovo to Canada and Spain to the USA. The final morning saw a high level theory of change panel where we together looked forward and over our shoulders on what the future of a camping platform/network could and should be.

In addition to plenary and workshops, peacebuilding was again a crucial element of the event. Participants got to use the Campacity Blog tree tool and be part of homegroups, there was also archery and forest cooking alongside messages of the day and an evening programme. This years programme was packed full of choice and options.

“Campacity is the ability to build bridges internationally to build a better camping world for everyone”

Campacity continues to unite people from all over the world who not only want to make a difference in camping culture but the world as a whole. Through shared values, beliefs, and hopes for the future, we can join forces for a better tomorrow. As the dust settles on this year’s Campacity, planning and conversations have already started for the 2026 addition.

Campacity Conference 2025: Meeting Online Before the Journey Begins

On March 4, 2025, the planning team of “Campacity” Conference organised a pre-event hangout to introduce the program, logistics, and most importantly, the people. The meeting brought together over 40 participants from different countries, providing an opportunity to get to know each other, reflect on the mission of the conference, and draw inspiration from the positive atmosphere and anticipation of the upcoming journey together.

Beginning in late March, the YMCA Camp Europe “Campacity” Conference will be held in Brandenburg, Germany. Involving over 80 camp professionals, the conference is a space to share best practices, gain essential skills in camp management, network for potential partnerships, and, most importantly, focus on trauma healing and resilience, aiming to help individuals affected by conflict and facilitate refugee integration.

YMCA Camp Europe expert Adi Davies moderated the meeting, providing vital information on logistics and introduction to the planning team, members of the YMCA Europe, YMCA of the USA, and the host – CVJM Germany.

YMCA Roots for Peace Project Assistant Rezi Shavladze proceeded to address the conference agenda, which involve workshops ranging from trauma awareness to creating an inclusive environment at camp and intercultural camps to philanthropy & fundraising. YMCA Roots for Peace Project Assistant Irina Berdzenishvili and YMCA Roots for Peace Accountant Šárka Čiháková also elaborated more on the financial reimbursement for project participation and the online platform where the community can access the necessary information concerning the project.

YMCA España International Program Coordinator Will Jones introduced the idea of market place, an opportunity for participants to share about their national YMCAs and their functions/activities.

Director of Global Equity Initiatives & Leadership at YMCA of the USA, Adriana Stanovici, shared words of compassion in the midst of uncertainty in the world today, emphasizing the importance of unity and dedication to our work for a better future.

The meeting concluded with a final note from YMCA Europe Executive Secretary Vardan Hambardzumyan, encouraging a positive outlook to the future and preparation for an exciting journey with “Campacity”, an initiative reinforcing the notion that no matter where you are in the world, you are not alone!

In conclusion YMCA Germany International Secretary Gerhard Wiebe welcomed all the participants to Berlin and Brandenburg!

The next day, March the 5th, 2025, another Campacity pre-event e-meeting was held, this time organised for the YMCA of the USA and focused on their 20 participants. From the Planning Team Vardan, Adi, and Gerhard joined the call – providing overview of YMCA Europe and YMCA Germany to the participants, briefing on Camp Europe project and peculiarities of the YMCA camping in Europe, elaborating on the programme of the forthcoming event, on the logistics related to both the city and in the camp days of the activity, as well as on the context of Berlin and Germany.

CAMP EUROPE CALL FOR APPLICATIONS 2025

YMCA Europe is announcing a third round of funding opportunities within the framework of “Camp Europe” project initiative for 2025.

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 (8 in Ukraine) across Europe supported . And in 2024, 17 projects (10 in Ukraine) 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.

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. On top of that, 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.

A minimum 50% of direct beneficiaries of proposed projects must be war affected children, young people or IDPs (internally displaced persons) 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, activity costs, materials & supplies (based on tax invoice or receipt)

Transportation (based on tax invoice, receipt, bus/train ticket, declaration of own car usage)
Expertise & facilitation (based on contract with concrete job description or invoice and bank transfer confirmation)
Administration (maximum 10% of whole budget) – no proof required

The provision of bank transfer confirmation is requested for all expenditures over 800 EUR.

Volunteer time and in-kind contributions will be considered as eligible costs and must be agreed beforehand for concrete budget items (both together maximum 10% of the whole budget). You are required to provide appropriate documentation to support your claim: Timesheet (declaration of volunteer hours), Sworn Statement or any other type of paperwork that proves it. We will provide the relevant sample form(s) upon request.

Ineligible costs:

Equipment

Staff costs (could be financed under administration allowance only)
Tips
Alcohol, cigarettes
Penalties, fines

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 for total contracted amount including both – grant and own contribution, 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 April 30, 2025. “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 the YMCA Europe task force. The contracting process is to be completed by June 15, 2025.

★ All projects must be finished by August 31, 2025.

★ All narrative & financial reports must be submitted by October 31, 2025. “Camp Europe” narrative & financial report forms will be provided upon project approval.

Attach 2025 Application form – Camp Europe Application Form

Camp Europe 2024 Post-Season Evaluation

It has been a very busy year for Camp Europe project team with 28 applications submitted to us for the review and 17 making the final cut in 2024. Eventually, hundreds of kids in different parts of Europe received the opportunity to be engaged in summer camp activities that had a very diversified profile (according to each context and capacity) and methodologies used (experiential learning, outdoor activities, role plays, open theatre, etc.), but all of them were unified by fostering care, integration, fun and growth.

The Camp Europe 2024 Post-Season Survey was launched in November to evaluate the project’s outcomes and its impact on those 17 beneficiary projects (10 from Ukraine). All implementing partners participated in the survey and this summary provides an overview of the key findings.

The survey received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Hereby we offer you the synopsis of selected stats, figures and statements below:

Safety: 100% of partners reported that children felt safe during the camp.
Skill Development: All 100 % of beneficiaries confirmed that children acquired new skills during the camp.
Positive Behavioral Change: 100% of them observed positive changes in children’s behavior following their participation in the camp.
Resilience: Overwhelming majority (94.1 %) have highlighted increased resilience among the participants.

So it comes as a no surprise that the majority of kids (more than 80 %) would love to engage into other YMCA activities and are looking forward to be a part of the summer camp again in the future (close to 90 %).

And, as one would expect nowadays – success in the field work is directly translated into the new followers of various social media channels that our partners operate: with more than 1 000 new arrivals in total regularly checking out their activities at different platforms for the moment.

As for the lessons learned and specific recommendations for the future, there was quite wide array of opinions too, with mostly used words being “communication”, “safe space”, “flexibility” and “teamwork” – underlining the significance of careful planning, qualified implementation team and sense of adaptability, especially when carrying out the activities in Ukraine.

There were challenges too, of course – provided the mixed nature of the camps (at least 50 % of the kids were supposed to be of Ukrainian origin) and the related emotional state, safety, integration issues or language barriers; transportation or weather conditions are all valid concerns and we are happy to learn about and deal with them, but what makes everyone hopeful and enthusiastic is the feedback received about the long-term impact of the camp on participants:

“The camp not only helps the participants in the short term, but also lays the foundation for their further development, integration into society and self-realization. Its impact is lifelong, improving the quality of life of participants, their families, and the community as a whole.”

“Camp is a life-long experience, as the knowledge and feelings campers receive, are deeply stuck in their personalities. Small details that kids see in camp is most important. for example if someone was afraid to speak up on the first day, they would freely express themselves on the third day. If someone thought they did not know how to swim or were not as athletic as others, this stereotype was also broken, because by the end of week everyone was happy with their small achievements.”

And many more quotes like these inspire us to gear up for 2025 with renewed energy, dedication and passion to make sure that even more kids receive what they fully deserve – lots of fun, love and opportunities to thrive!

Watch participants testimonials

Campacity 2025 Preparatory Site Visit

On the 13th and 14th November Šárka Čiháková and myself headed over to Berlin, Germany on a pre conference visit ahead of next year’s Campacity conference.

After a very early flight we met at the Sophienhof YMCA, which is a beautiful old building across from the church and small park. The classic branding and cute restaurant were very welcoming and after checking in we jumped straight into lunch with our hosts Alena and Gerhard (from the national YMCA).

After lunch we had a short tour around the YMCA and the facilities, where we asked questions about the structure and programmes. We then visited the National CVJM office on the same premises and heard more about the advocacy and work with the national government.

We then visited CVJM Jugendhais where we joined their drop-in session and met some young volunteers and staff. Ana gave us a tour and shared how the space is funded and operates for the community. It was the middle of a drop-in session and we got to speak to young participants and volunteers who were operating the cafe bar and organising activities.

We finished off the evening with a visit to the famous Brandenburg gate and a trip to parliament. I listened to recounts of Sarka and Gerhard from how their teacher and school reacted to the fall of the wall- truly a moment that changed history.

The second day started with a S’more latte (in the spirit of camp) then a trip to the camp and tour of the facilities. The camp is very youth friendly and has nice rooms and a rustic/nature feel. As we walked around my mind buzzed with what we could potentially do with 80 participants in Spring. Perspektivfabrik YMCA Camp has grounds of more than 35,000 m² in the middle of a nature reserve, they have their own beach, playground, BBQ areas, climbing wall, an outdoor football pitch, a beach volleyball court (with floodlights), a lake with rowing boats and canoes, a large multi-purpose hall, seminar rooms and plenty of space for recreation, reflection, leisure, training or seminars. Not to forget the large Party Tent for 200 people! It was a quick tour as we had to zoom in live to the global working group from the camp! A YMCA first?

After the zoom meeting we headed across to Brandenburg YMCA for a community dinner with their cooking group, who meet twice a month and fund the activities themselves. It’s a warm and inviting group and everyone must contribute and then sit together to eat. There were people from Germany, England, Czech Republic, Mexico and Colombia all trying to work and contribute in many languages (and at times sign language). It really did remind me of our international YMCA and bringing people together. After thanking the group we invited them to join us for the cultural evening at Campacity and I am also sure many participants will take the opportunity to visit them before the conference.

In conclusion it was a packed agenda and felt very much that we were always on the go. Many conversations, thoughts and hopes were shared these days and a special mention should go to Gerhard from the national YMCA who was a great host and really looked after us.

CAMPACITY 2025 – Call for Participants

Written by Adrian Davis

CAMPACITY 2025 – Call for Participants

YMCA Europe invites all interested YMCA organisations to apply for Camp Capacity Building Conference “Campacity”, to be implemented within the framework of “Camp Europe” project.

The detailed description of the Conference and the application form are provided below:

YMCA Camp Europe “Campacity” Conference is a joint initiative of YMCA Europe & the YMCA of the USA, hosted by CVJM Germany that aims to:

Capacitate YMCA Camp Europe with human resources able to offer relevant and innovation-led ideas on forms and contents of camp programmes, whereby they are focused on trauma-healing or mental health, life-skills or resilience development, refugee rehabilitation or integration, conflict management and transformation, etc.
Build capacity for the YMCA Camping Movement to work with war affected young people and families in Europe – with a focus on, but not exclusively limited to Ukrainian IDPs (Internally Displaced Person) and refugees.
Bring together camp professionals to discuss, share and collaborate on topics related to camps, camping, outdoor education and adventure-based learning- with a focus on exchange of knowledge, professional development and regional and global networking.

Bringing together up to 80 leaders from the U.S. and European YMCAs, the conference attendees will:

Provide a safe space to share practice and experience for those YMCAs working with refugees or youth affected by conflict.
Strengthen their capacity as camp programme leaders to deliver relevant and innovative programs focused on trauma-healing, development of life skills, conflict management & refugee integration;
Gain practical tools, skills and resources for camp management;
Become a catalyst for deeper strategic cooperation within camping program in Europe;
Build a network of camp peers between Europe and the United States.

PROFILE OF PARTICIPANTS

The Conference is organised for participants who are/have:

Representing the YMCA organisations/institutions that currently provide services or intend to do so for beneficiaries affected by the conflicts in Europe and beyond, the war in Ukraine especially considered.
Representing the YMCA organisations/institutions that currently provide camping services (day or overnight) or intend to do so in the near future.
Camp staff that are primarily affected by the conflicts in Europe and beyond, the war in Ukraine especially considered.
Representing the YMCA organisations/institutions that have existing international (US – Europe) partnerships or are willing to establish them.
Decision makers, camp directors, program leaders or team members eligible to assume the responsibility for development and enhancement of camping programs in Europe and the United States.
Competent and willing to share their knowledge and experience in camp program management to the other participants of the Conference.
In a position to transfer the knowledge gained during the Conference to respective sending organisations and the teams carrying out camping activities.
Previous experience in camping programs and/or the motivation to develop their competencies and skills in the camping field.
Committed to attend the full duration of the Conference.
Able to communicate and work in the English language.

Campacity Conference welcomes all candidates who fulfil the specific profile outlined above – irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, religion, belief or sexual orientation.

CONFERENCE DATE: March 27 – 31, 2025

CONFERENCE LOCATION: Camp PerspektivFabrik, near the city of Brandenburg an der Havel, 85km west of Berlin, Germany. The closest train station: Brandenburg Hbf. (For more precise address details, please see the following link)

CONFERENCE PARTICIPATION FEE: € 300 per participant

NUMBER OF SUBSIDISED PARTICIPANTS PER NATIONAL YMCA: Maximum 2

PARTICIPANT AGE: Twenty-one (21) & Above

NOTES:

1. Subsidies (including the travel costs) can be available upon request for the applicants from the selected countries & regions, such as: Ukraine, South Caucasus and Western Balkans; as well as for the applicants from those organisations that previously partnered with the YMCA Camp Europe project.

2. You will be expected to participate during the full duration of the event. Please DO NOT apply if you will be unable to attend all four working days of the Conference.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Please submit your applications no later than January 17th, 2025.

Thank you!