Solidarity Project 2023: The foundation stone of growth

Over the past year 2023, we have dedicated ourselves passionately to this solidarity project that not only supports local educational initiatives but also bridges the gap between our community and Europe. Let's delve deeper into the various facets of this project and trace the path that led us to become a significant community center.

Background and Foundation: Establishing the Academy of Growth e.V.

The foundation of our commitment was laid with the establishment of the non-profit organization "Academy of Growth e.V." Our focus revolves around Non-Formal Education and the cultivation of a vibrant community. Inspired by the concept of a "bottom-up" approach, we aimed to actively contribute to shaping the future of Europe.

Identifying Needs

We identified that within a 50 km radius of our Location Kevelaer, there was no organization actively promoting the educational opportunities offered by the European Union. Our initiative stemmed from the need to address this gap and make a sustainable contribution to local development.

Expansion of a Community Kitchen: A Complex Journey

The heart of our project was the expansion of a community kitchen. We encountered various challenges, from acquiring a 20-year-old restaurant kitchen to establishing an efficient water infrastructure. The journey was demanding, but through intensive cleaning efforts and collaboration with local groups, we created a radiant kitchen that is more than just a pla

ce to cook.

Infrastructure for Operation: Power and Water

Without the proper infrastructure, the kitchen would not function. The creation of the necessary power and water infrastructure was crucial. From laying a new 32-ampere power line to the careful installation of water lines, we laid the foundations for smooth operation.

The Community Room in the Stable: A Space for Exchange

Parallel to the kitchen expansion, a community room in the stable emerged. Here, we not only created a lounge area but also a space for non-formal learning. In close collaboration with local groups, we designed this space as a meeting point for exchange and the collaborative development of ideas.

Community Kitchen

Lounge Area

International Youth Encounters: Milestones and Development Impulses

The infrastructure we created was intensely tested through three international youth encounters. From "The Garden of Growth" to "The Energy for Growth," these projects not only provided valuable feedback but also served as a platform for intercultural exchange.

Integration into the Local Community and a Glimpse into the Future

We see ourselves not as an isolated entity but as an integral part of the local community. The involvement of local people has been crucial from the beginning. In the coming years, our goal is to develop the Academy of Growth into a hub for Non-Formal Education and intercultural exchange in the region.

This journey of transformation has not only brought us local empowerment but is also poised to make a sustainable contribution to European development. We take pride in what has been achieved and eagerly anticipate the continuation of this path, bringing our community closer and strengthening ties with Europe.