Asociatia Romanian Youth Movement for Democracy

Bacau, Bacău, 600381 Romania

Mission Statement

At the Romanian Youth Movement for Democracy Association (RYMD), our mission is to empower and inspire the youth of Romania to actively participate in the democratic process, prioritize education, and engage in national and local governance. We believe that by fostering a sense of civic responsibility, promoting educational opportunities, and encouraging youth involvement at all levels of decision-making, we can create a thriving democratic society where every young person has a voice and the opportunity to shape their future. Our main priorities focus on the following topics: 1. Education for Empowerment: We recognize that education is the foundation upon which a strong and vibrant society is built. Therefore, we strive to promote the importance of education among young people in Romania. We aim to improve access to quality education for all, regardless of social or economic background. By providing educational projects, and educational resources, we empower young individuals to reach their full potential, nurturing them to become well-informed citizens capable of making informed decisions and contributing positively to society. New technologies, media education, and 21st-century skills are the main subjects we tackle to our education projects. 2. Youth Participation in Democracy: We firmly believe that young people are not just the future but also the present leaders of our nation. We advocate for the active participation of youth in the democratic process, emphasizing the importance of their voices being heard and respected. Through workshops, seminars, and public forums, we educate young people about their rights, responsibilities, and the mechanisms of democracy. By encouraging political literacy and fostering a culture of engagement, we aim to cultivate a generation of young leaders who are committed to democratic values and actively participate in shaping the future of Romania and Europe. 3. Youth Participation in Local Governance: We believe that local governance provides a crucial platform for youth to make a tangible impact on their communities. RYMD seeks to create opportunities for young people to actively participate in local decision-making processes. We strive to bridge the gap between youth and local authorities, fostering collaboration, dialogue, and transparency. By advocating for youth representation in local government and providing training programs on leadership and advocacy, we aim to empower young individuals to address local challenges, influence policy-making, and contribute to the development of their communities. 4. Collaborative Partnerships: RYMD recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships in achieving our mission. We actively seek alliances with governmental and non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, youth associations, and civil society groups to create a network of support for our initiatives. By fostering synergies and pooling resources, we can maximize our impact and reach a wider audience of young people across Romania. We strive to build a collaborative ecosystem that fosters innovative ideas, shared knowledge, and collective action in support of youth empowerment and democratic values. 5. Advocacy and Policy Influence: RYMD aims to be a leading voice for youth-related issues in Romania. We engage in advocacy efforts to influence policies that positively impact the lives of young people. By conducting research, analyzing data, and presenting evidence-based arguments, we actively participate in policy debates and strive to shape legislation that prioritizes youth rights, education, and meaningful youth participation. We believe that through informed advocacy, we can drive systemic change and ensure that the voices of young Romanians are at the forefront of decision-making processes. The Romanian Youth Movement for Democracy Association is committed to empowering young people through education, fostering their active participation in democracy, and promoting their engagement in local governance. We envision a future where every young Romanian has the opportunity to thrive, make a difference, and shape a democratic society that values and respects the contributions of its youth. Together, we can build a brighter future for Romania, driven by the collective power and potential of its young generation.

About This Cause

The Youth Club - Bridging the Educational Divide The "Youth Club" education project is specifically designed to address the critical issue of school dropout rates among young people aged 15 to 18 years who study at technical high schools in the city of Bacau, Romania. Recognizing the challenges faced by students from impoverished backgrounds and rural environments, this project aims to provide a comprehensive support system to empower these young individuals, ultimately reducing school dropouts and paving the way for a brighter future. 5 out of 10 children from rural areas in Romania, who enrol in the 9th grade at an urban high school or vocational school, fail to complete their studies, most of them not coping with the challenges of their first year away from home. (In Romania, after the 8th grade, students go to high school or professional schools which are located, in vast majority, only in big urban centres). The reasons are varied - lack of financial support, bullying or cyberbullying, lack of emotional support within the family, lack of adults to talk to or inability to adapt to the new urban social environment. What did we did so far: Starting with November 202 we launched The Youth Club, a space that consists in two rooms with a total of 100 square meters developed inside the students campus of the Anghel Saligny Technical School in Bacau. One space is aimed for quality leisure time, workshops and other activities, and one room is design as a study space. A number of 90 boys and girls with ages between 15 to 19 years old leave in the campus for 9 moths each year, during th 4 years of study. The Youth Club is our way to reducing the number of children who drop-out of school and it is a place where young people spend time with people from different fields of activity (business people, teachers, psychologists, freelancers) who help them to adapt to the new life in the city, offer them options for spending their free time and help them better manage the risks of life away from their families and home village. What do we want to offer them in the next year: "The Youth Club" project is centered around the idea of creating an inclusive and dynamic community that provides holistic support to students. Through a range of activities, mentorship, and opportunities for personal development, the project aims to instill a sense of belonging and motivation among the participants. Children who end up studying at vocational high schools usually come with a number of gaps in subjects such as maths, physics, Romanian, English. These subjects are essential for the profiles they study: aviation technician, aircraft mechanic, aircraft construction technician, plumbing and gas fitter, transport technician or aviation technician. If we manage to meet their educational needs, at the end of the 4 years cycle of study, we will have on the labour market a qualified workforce in areas where our society is lacking. And above all, these children will break the vicious circle of poverty from which they come. Youth Club Activities: The project will develop the already created "Youth Club" space, which is a safe and welcoming space where students engage in a variety of activities that promote learning, creativity, and social interaction. These activities included until now workshops on art, entrepreneurship, personal development, but we want to extend the area of topics also to music coding and developing technology related skills. The club serve as a hub for exploration, fostering a sense of curiosity, and nurturing talent. Mentoring and Peer Support: Mentorship plays a pivotal role in supporting students' educational journey. "The Youth Club" project connects students with mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and practical advice. Mentors help students set goals, develop study habits, explore career paths, and overcome personal challenges. Additionally, peer support networks will be established, enabling students to learn from and support one another. Academic Assistance: To address the specific academic needs of students, the project will offer tailored academic assistance. Qualified educators and volunteers will provide after-school tutoring sessions, study groups, and access to educational resources. This support will help students bridge knowledge gaps, strengthen their academic skills, and build confidence in their abilities. With the financial support provided we will develop a remedial program for children in the following subjects: Romanian, physics, mathematics.The classes will be held in a non-formal, friendly and focused on the needs of each child. Remedial activities will be organised as follows: Exact Sciences Club (mathematics, physics and robotics) In order to increase the pass rate and improve the results obtained in the subjects of the Science curriculum area, students will carry out remedial learning activities and additional training in physics and mathematics and robotics. The activities will focus on the application of the theoretical notions acquired in the classroom into practice through experimental lessons and practical activities. Target group: 20 young people Book Club. The activities aim to increase the literacy of students with difficulties, to increase the level of comprehension of the text read and to form young people who are easy to adapt to society, creative, communicative and independent. Remedial activities will take place on a weekly basis. Teambuilding activities: In order to develop a friendly environment for students entering grade IX, we will organize a series of teambuilding activities. Teambuilding activities lead to group cohesion and the development of harmonious relationships between students. We aim to organise two teambuildings per year. Drama club: Through drama activities and creative exercises, we want to promote empathy, non-violent communication and personal development of the participants, thus creating a safe and stimulating environment for all young people. They will improve their effective communication skills and learn conflict resolution strategies. These skills will be applicable in everyday life, both in school and in personal relationships. Career Guidance and Vocational Training: "The Youth Club" project will provide comprehensive career guidance and vocational training programs. Through workshops, seminars, and guest speaker sessions, students will explore different career paths and gain insights into the skills and qualifications required for success. Community Engagement: To foster a sense of social responsibility and community engagement, "The Youth Club" project will encourage students to participate in community service activities. Volunteering initiatives, such as environmental clean-ups, charity drives, and awareness campaigns, will allow students to make a positive impact on their community while developing empathy, leadership skills, and a sense of civic duty. Personal Development and Life Skills: "The Youth Club" project will emphasize personal development and the acquisition of essential life skills. Workshops and interactive sessions will focus on communication skills, problem-solving, critical thinking, time management, and emotional intelligence. These skills will empower students to navigate challenges, set goals, and become resilient individuals capable of handling the complexities of life beyond the classroom. "The Youth Club" education project is a dynamic and comprehensive initiative aimed at reducing school dropout rates among young individuals aged 15 to 18 years from the Anghel Saligny Technological High School in Bacau. By providing engaging activities, mentorship, academic assistance, scholarships, career guidance, vocational training, and fostering personal development, this project seeks to create a supportive and empowering environment for students. Through the collective efforts of educators, mentors, volunteers, and the community, "The Youth Club" will equip young individuals with the necessary tools, skills, and support to overcome socioeconomic barriers and forge a path toward a successful and fulfilling future.

Asociatia Romanian Youth Movement for Democracy
Strada Viitorului, Nr.26
Bacau, Bacău 600381
Romania
Phone 0040747476836
Website www.rymd.ro
Unique Identifier 5857085055003_3474