There were about 400 children and young people that participated in our daily camps this summer, in Tirana, Berat and Gramsh, thanks to the cooperation of our YMCA Albania with different stakeholders, such as: Catholic Church Berat, Italian organisation “Volunteers of  Sebino and Ravena”,  Catholic Church Tirana, Jesuit Centre “Father Anton Luli” and community centre “Lets stay together” Tirana municipality. 

Summer Camps in Gramsh & Uznova: A Union of Values and Cultures

This summer, Gramsh and Uznova became lively centers of activity, learning, and cultural exchange through the organization of special summer camps. These camps were carried out by the Catholic Church’s nuns, in close cooperation with the Italian volunteers from the organizations Volontari del Sebino and Ravenna and YMCA Albania, bringing together local children and youth in a unique and inspiring experience.

A Meeting of Cultures and Values

In the beautiful nature of these areas, the camps provided a suitable environment for young people to learn and enjoy themselves. These camps were opportunities for recreation, and platforms where values of solidarity, compassion, and cultural exchange were promoted. The Italian and Albanian volunteers, coming from Volontari del Sebino, the Catholic Church, and YMCA Albania, contributed their experiences, creating a rich mosaic of experiences and traditions that strengthened mutual respect and understanding.

Activities and Learning

During the camps, a series of activities were organized aimed at personal development and helping the community. The activities included art and craft workshops, music, sports, and environmental education. The Italian volunteers brought a unique European perspective, enriching the experience of the youth and making it even more international. YMCA Albania contributed with team-building games, leadership training, and discussions on social issues affecting young people.

An important part of the camps was the spiritual dimension, with missionaries leading daily reflections, prayer sessions, and moments of meditation. These activities were designed to deepen participants’ connection to their faith and encourage them to live according to the values of love and service to others.

Building Lasting Friendships

One of the most special outcomes of the camps was the establishment of strong bonds between the participants and volunteers. The shared experience of daily life, working towards common goals, and the simple pleasures of nature created friendships that transcended cultural and geographical boundaries. The communities of Gramsh and Uznova warmly welcomed the visitors, and the interaction between locals and international volunteers was characterized by the exchange of customs, stories, and life lessons.

Positive Impact on the Community

The summer camps left a profound impact on the respective communities. They provided safe and supportive environments for children, helping them learn and grow, while for the volunteers, it was an opportunity to contribute meaningfully and enrich their own lives. The collaboration between the missionaries of the Catholic Church, Volontari del Sebino, and YMCA Albania set a powerful example of how international cooperation can bring positive change at the community level.

As the camps concluded, participants left not only with beautiful memories and new friendships but also with a renewed sense of responsibility and a deeper understanding of their role in the broader world. The success of these camps has laid strong foundations for future collaborations, promising even more impactful projects in the years to come.

Camps in Tirana: embracing leadership for a greener and innovative future  

Almost all children and young people participating in these camps belong to the most vulnerable target-groups and all camps were free. They had the opportunity to improve their personal and social skills, through leadership sessions, HP courses & digital games, environmental actions and handcrafts workshops, interactive and cooperating outdoors games . They learned how to deal and solve problems within a group, how to take risks on outdoor activities, explored nature and learned more about plants, green issues and protecting the environment, and above all how to make new friendships.