The EU project INVEST kicked off with its first face-to-face meeting in L’Aquila, Italy. Representatives from the six partner organizations met to plan the next steps for empowering young volunteers in the field of sports.
The kick-off meeting for the EU project INVEST (International Volunteers Educational Skills Training) took place in picturesque L’Aquila. Members of the steering group from all six partner associations—CSR, DJK, FSCF, NBA Aquila, OREL, and SPORTUNION—met in person for the first time. The Italian partner association NBA Aquila hosted the event.
Focus areas: Planning, preparation, and time management
The meeting focused on planning the upcoming congress week, preparing the virtual kick-off event for volunteers, and fine-tuning the project schedule. In a productive exchange with representatives from FICEP, key tasks for the 2026 practical training were also defined.
Experiencing community – culture meets commitment
In addition to intensive project work, the meeting also offered cultural highlights: a joint city tour rounded off the program and strengthened the sense of community. The steering group is looking forward to the upcoming project phases with motivation and enthusiasm, and is excited to work together to inspire young people to volunteer in sports.
About the project
INVEST* aims to open up new educational pathways for young volunteers aged between 17 and 30 and to strengthen voluntary work in non-profit sports organizations. In view of the lack of training opportunities, INVEST aims to contribute to the sustainable development of volunteer work through international cooperation, innovative methods, and practical training. The goal is to promote skills, create networks, and secure the long-term commitment of young people.
* “Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.”
