Volunteering Programs for Vulnerable Groups implemented

In the recent period, three modules of Volunteering Programs for vulnerable groups were held at the Old Crafts Estate in Hlebine, as part of the IBC project – Social Inclusion by Valorising Heritage along Existing Cycling Routes in Remote Border Areas.

The volunteering programs were organized with the aim of fostering intergenerational cooperation in heritage interpretation and collaborative work on the development of a new tourism product along international cycling routes passing through the Koprivnica Križevci County area: EuroVelo 13 (the so-called "Iron Curtain Route") and the European Amazon, also known as the Amazon of Europe Bike Trail.

The programs involved members of the silver generation (55+) and the silver generation with disabilities, as well as youth in disadvantaged positions. The programs were led by educators from the so-called "silver generation," who act as mentors to young people in disadvantaged positions, teaching them traditional skills. The youth assist their mentors in creating traditional items, souvenirs, and meals, which enables the transfer of knowledge across generations, the learning of new skills, and contributes to the preservation of local heritage.

The first module of the volunteering program focused on preparing the traditional dessert "Bregofska pita," led by members of the Women's Association of Koprivnički Bregi. Young people in disadvantaged positions, young people with disabilities, and members of the silver generation with disabilities participated in the workshop. Following numerous explanations on the technique of preparing this dessert, which is protected as intangible heritage, a tasting session was held.

The second module was led by members of the Old Crafts Association. The activity involved learning the skills of old crafts, and demonstrated how to make clay items, after which the volunteers had the opportunity to create their own souvenirs independently. A demonstration of traditional wooden toy making, a part of our local heritage, was also held and greatly supported by the volunteers.

The third module, called "School of Naive Art" particularly engaged the volunteers. It was led by representatives of the Hlebine Association of Naive Painters and Sculptors. After an introductory presentation on naive art and instruction on painting techniques and the concept of the workshop, each volunteer, under the guidance of naive painters, created their own painting, thus producing unique souvenirs.

The volunteering programs involved members of the  Association of the Blind of Koprivnica Križevci County, the Association of People with Disabilities "Better Tomorrow" PLUS, and the Svitanje Community Service Center.