Cultural Crossroads: Fostering European Identity through Heritage Engagement
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
CALL OBJECTIVE
Participation in youth and professional programs organized within the Erasmus+ project “Cultural Crossroads: Fostering European Identity through Heritage Engagement” / “Kulturális kereszutak: Az európai identitás erősítése az épített örökség iránti elköteleződés révén” – project number 2024-1-HU01-KA220-YOU-000255210.
ERASMUS+ PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Between June 20 and October 16, 2025, youth exchange programs will be held in three locations: Bögöz (Romania), Zavattarello (Italy), and Budapest (Hungary).
These programs will offer young individuals interested in heritage preservation the opportunity to gain an overview of the best current European practices through conferences, workshops, and practical activities.
The events are organized in collaboration between the New Millennium Foundation (coordinating organization), the Municipality of Zavattarello, and the Bögözért Association (partner organizations). The Erasmus+ program events and locations are as follows:
- Bögöz, Harghita County, Romania: June 20-26, 2025
- Zavattarello, Pavia Province, Italy: August 12-18, 2025
- Budapest, Hungary: October 10-16, 2025
TARGET AUDIENCE
Young people aged 18 to 30 engaged in the preservation of architectural heritage and monuments. Previous experience in youth, civic, or volunteer activities in this field will be considered an asset.
PROGRAM PARTECIPATION INFORMATION
Selected young individuals will have the opportunity to participate in all three Erasmus+ events at the indicated locations and dates free of charge.
APPLICATION PROCESS AND DEADLINE
Applications must be submitted via the online registration form by June 6, 2025, at 12:00 PM: 🔗 Registration form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1liuyiChTs0HooocVxFGPMogLOwYn1Am_-LmNFrl-ukQ/viewform?ts=6818adf7&edit_requested=true
Applicants must also send their CV to the following email address: [email protected]
FURTHER INFORMATION AND DETAILED PROGRAM
The detailed program for each event will be available on the project website: 🔗🔗
It will be published approximately one month before each event begins.
Our project introduces an innovative approach to youth work by integrating heritage engagement into educational programs. By developing a toolkit for youth workers and organizing practical exchange programs, we present innovative methods for promoting cultural awareness and civic engagement among young people.
OBJECTIVES
• Promoting European identity among young people through the embrace and restoration of shared heritage Encouraging young people to discover and embrace their European identity by actively engaging in the protection and restoration of cultural heritage sites. Promoting a sense of unity and belonging among different cultures by highlighting shared European history and values.
• Creating a framework for the restoration of community heritage sites as an innovative approach in youth work Developing a comprehensive framework to integrate heritage protection and restoration practices into youth initiatives. Providing guidance and resources for youth workers to incorporate heritage engagement into their daily activities, fostering innovation and creativity.
• Raising awareness of unity and diversity, cultural identity, cultural awareness, and historical heritage Educating young people on the importance of unity in diversity, cultural identity, and historical heritage through interactive training and practical experiences. Enhancing cultural awareness and appreciation, motivating them to become advocates for conservation and guardians of shared history and culture.
TARGET GROUPS OF THE PROJECT
• Young people The primary target group includes young individuals aged 18 to 30: students, volunteers, and others interested in heritage conservation, cultural exchange, and personal development.
• Heritage restoration professionals Another important group includes young professionals working in the field of heritage restoration, such as architects, conservators, visual artists, and historians. Our project offers specialized training and professional development opportunities in heritage conservation practices.
• Youth workers We consider youth workers as a key target group, as they are actively involved in youth work initiatives. These individuals play a crucial role in implementing heritage-related activities within their communities and organizations.
• Local communities Our project aims to engage local communities near selected heritage sites. By actively involving community members in restoration efforts, we promote a sense of ownership and responsibility for local cultural heritage.
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) NGOs operating in the fields of heritage conservation, youth development, and cultural exchange are also among the target groups of our project. We seek to collaborate with these organizations to leverage their expertise and resources in project implementation.
• Educational institutions Schools, universities, and vocational training centers are also key target groups. Our project provides educational opportunities and training for students and professionals interested in heritage conservation and cultural heritage management.
SUMMARY OF PLANNED ACTIVITIES
• Development of a toolkit for youth workers to support the implementation of heritage engagement activities in their daily work. • Organization of intensive training sessions for youth workers and volunteers, both experienced and inexperienced, in heritage restoration.
• Support for three youth exchange programs focused on heritage restoration, to be held in Hungary, Romania, and Italy. • Collaboration with local communities, civil society organizations, and educational institutions to support heritage conservation initiatives.
TOTAL PROJECT DURATION
20 MONTHS – from September 1, 2024, to April 30, 2026.
PARTICIPATION CONDITIONS AND REGISTRATION
• Applications are accepted from young people aged 18 to 30, primarily those engaged in the conservation of architectural heritage and monuments. • Priority will be given to candidates who:
- Have previous experience in youth, civic, or volunteer activities in the field of heritage and/or monument conservation.
- Commit to participating in all three youth exchange programs. • Applications must be submitted via the online registration form by the deadline indicated in the Call. By applying, participants commit to attending the selected events. Anyone who fails to notify the organizers of their inability to participate at least two weeks before the event will be required to cover the full participation cost. • The list of selected candidates will be published by the evaluation committees of the partner organizations on June 10, 2025, on the project website: 🔗🔗 • For events in Romania, Italy, and Hungary, organizers will select the most cost-effective and logistically optimal means of transport. Participants will be informed of travel details.
For further information, contact: [email protected]
