H2O

The ESC project H2O - “Health and Heritage, Opportunities for a Life Change”, is a Volunteering Teams in High Priority Areas project in the frame of European Solidarity Corps, that involved 94 volunteers, in actions promoting solidarity among youth of different countries and regions, promoting at the same time diversity and intercultural dialogue.

The main topics of the project include the preservation of cultural heritage, to raise the awareness about European cultural richness, support and work for the Roma community and culture, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, sport and physical activity in the frame of ensuring quality of life and the strengthening of social inclusion and well-being, as well as the promotion of a healthy diet to ensure nutritional needs are met through the consumption of quality, local and seasonal products, which have a beneficial impact not only on health but also on the environment.

The more specific activities and objectives of “H2O” include:

-Promoting social inclusion of the Roma community

-Promoting and preserving the intangible cultural heritage of the Roma community

-Fostering cultural exchange and non-formal learning opportunities for youth with fewer opportunities

-Raising awareness about discrimination against ethnic minorities

-Bridge the gap between Greek and Turkish youth

-Show the cultural and social similarities, common traits and traditions between Greece and Turkey

-Foster the values of peace, friendship and reconciliation between nations and among youth

-Promote solidarity and recognize migrations as an added cultural value

-Promoting healthy dietary choices

-Promoting sport and outdoor activities

-Promoting local food production

As in all ESC projects, the activities are based on non-formal methods and were open to people of all ages and backgrounds. The promotion of crucial European values of solidarity, inclusion and non-discrimination are in the core of the project’s implementation.