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Municipal Volunteer Festival 2024: Sign up and Get Recognized for Your Contribution to the Community!

The Municipal Volunteer Festival 2024 opens its doors to all those who have actively contributed to the development of the community through volunteering. The event, now in its ninth edition, aims to recognize the efforts of young people and adults who have had a positive impact on society, giving them the chance to showcase their achievements and receive the appreciation they deserve.

If you have been involved in youth education, supported vulnerable groups, fought for the environment or coordinated cultural and artistic projects, now is your chance to apply to this festival to showcase your contributions. The festival aims to bring to the attention of the general public and local authorities the importance of volunteering and community work as essential elements for the development of society.

The Municipal Volunteer Festival is in its second edition and is organized by the Chisinau Municipal Youth Centre and Chisinau City Hall!

What is the Municipal Volunteer Festival?

This festival is a competition dedicated to those who have participated in various volunteering activities, either individually or in teams. Through this initiative, the organizers aim to encourage civic involvement, promote social solidarity and bring to the forefront volunteers who, through their work, have managed to bring about significant change in the community.

Participants will have the opportunity to compete in several categories, each representing an area where volunteers can make a major impact. The festival is open to anyone who has volunteered in 2024 and wants to share their work.

The competition categories and prizes are as follows:

  • Section I Volunteer of the Year 2024 – Influencing Change
    • Education and Training Volunteer of the Year – Volunteers who have contributed to the education of young people or provided support for personal and professional development – 10 000 mdl;
    • Arts and Culture Volunteer of the Year – Volunteers involved in promoting local arts, culture and traditions, contributing to the creative development of the community – 10 000 mln;
    • Social and Community Volunteer of the Year – Volunteers who have worked with vulnerable groups, providing support in social integration and community development – 10 000 MDL;
    • Environmental and Animal Protection Volunteer of the Year – Volunteers involved in environmental projects, such as greening or animal protection – 10 000 mdl;
    • Sport Volunteer of the Year – Volunteers who promoted sport and physical activities for young people and communities – 10 000 MDL;
    • Volunteer of the Golden Age (50+) – Senior volunteers who have made a significant contribution to community development through their experience and dedication – 10 000 MDL
  • Section II Volunteer Coordinator of the Year 2024 – Architects of Change
    • 1st place – 20 000 mdl;
    • Second place – 15 000 mln;
    • 3rd place – 12 000 mln;
  • Section III Volunteering Project of the Year 2024 – impact initiatives
    • Education and Training Volunteering Project of the Year – Projects that have contributed to improving access to education or skills development for young people – 5000 mln;
    • Arts and Culture Volunteering Project of the Year – Projects that have made a significant contribution to promoting local culture and involving young people in artistic activities – 5000 mln;
    • Social and Community Volunteering Project of the Year – Initiatives aimed at reducing inequalities and supporting vulnerable groups – 5000 mln;
    • Environment and Animal Protection Volunteering Project of the Year – Projects that focused on nature protection, biodiversity conservation and animal care – USD 5000 million;
    • Sport Volunteering Project of the Year – Projects that promoted physical activity, health and sports involvement of young people – 5000 mln;
    • Inclusion Volunteering Project of the Year (in the context of the Year of Inclusion) – “Volunteering for All” – 5000 mln;
  • Section IV Structures implementing voluntary activities – pillars of change
    • The most active structure (institution/organization) hosting and implementing volunteering activities in mun. Chisinau – 30 000 mdl;
    • The most active company/social enterprise involved in the promotion of volunteering activities in
    • Chisinau – 20 000 mdl;
    • The most active initiative group that implemented volunteering activities during 2024 – 15 000 mdl.

How can you participate?

In order to enter the competition, you need to fill in the entry form available online and consult the official competition rules.

The candidate should submit his/her application to the email fmv.chisinau@gmail.com, by November 17, 2024, indicating in the subject line, the Department for which he/she is applying, e.g. (Volunteer of the Year in the field of education and training)

More details, as well as the application form, can be accessed directly from the Festival Rules.

Why participate?

The Municipal Volunteer Festival is not just a competition. It is an opportunity to showcase your work, to inspire other young people to get actively involved in the community and to draw attention to the importance of volunteering in today’s society. Participating in this festival gives you the chance to win valuable prizes and gain public recognition for your contribution.

Through this event, the organizers want to encourage the development of civic spirit and promote volunteering as an engine for positive change in local communities.

Don’t miss the chance to become a role model for others and show how important your involvement in society is!

University of Tartu launches free online course on democracy and autocracy in the EU’s Eastern Neighborhood

Young people interested in politics and international relations now have the opportunity to take part in a free online course offered by the University of Tartu, which explores the themes of democracy and autocracy in the European Union’s Eastern Neighborhood. The course, titled “Democracy and Autocracy in the EU’s Eastern Neighborhood,” will take place between November 4 and December 8, 2024 and will be taught in English.

What will you learn?

Over the course of five modules, learners will explore the key characteristics of democratic and autocratic systems, as well as the political and historical context of the six countries in the EU’s Eastern Neighborhood. Topics discussed include:

  • Introduction to democracy and autocracy
  • Historical context of these regimes
  • Political institutions and systems
  • The challenges of democracy
  • Case studies on Ukraine, Belarus and Georgia

Course structure

The course consists of 78 academic hours, entirely online. Participants should have basic skills in using information and communication technologies. Upon completion of the course, each participant will receive a digital certificate and three ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits.

What will you get?

After successfully completing this course you will be able to:

  • Recognize the essential features of democratic and autocratic systems.
  • Analyze the historical factors that influenced the development of political systems in the Eastern Neighborhood.
  • Compare political systems and institutions as well as electoral processes in the region.
  • Evaluate the factors influencing democratization or autocratization.
  • Apply acquired knowledge to analyze specific cases in the countries of the Eastern Neighborhood.
  • Develop critical skills on the prospects for democracy in different political contexts.

How to apply?

Young people wishing to participate are invited to register by October 31, 2024. Registration is online by visiting the official registration page.

This course is a valuable opportunity for young people interested in international politics and democratic and autocratic processes in the European Union’s neighborhood.

Science Research Workshop for Young STEM Enthusiasts at America House, October 15-18.

Young research enthusiasts from Chisinau have the opportunity to participate in a four-day intensive workshop organized by America House between 15 and 18 October. The event is dedicated to those interested in the field of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and offers the opportunity to learn about scientific research in a professional environment.

What does the workshop offer?

Participants will explore all stages of a scientific study using modern technologies and advanced research methods, both in the laboratory and in the field. In addition to the technical aspects, young people will learn how to present their own scientific reports and have the chance to come up with their own ideas for research projects.

Topics covered:

  • Water quality research
  • Analyzing CO2 emissions
  • Studying climate change
  • Introduction to Python programming

Workshop program:

  • Tuesday, October 15: 16:00-18:00
  • Wednesday, October 16: 16:00-19:00
  • Thursday, October 17: 16:00-19:00
  • Friday, October 18: 16:00-18:00 (public exhibition of projects)

Further details

The workshop will be conducted in English, and at the end, participants will publicly present the projects developed during the sessions.

The event is free of charge, but only selected participants will be invited to attend. To register, please use the registration form available here.

Why attend?

This workshop is a unique opportunity for young people interested in research and science, providing them with a professional framework to develop their skills and understanding of how STEM scientific research works. Don’t miss the chance to take your first steps towards a future in science!

The Tourist Trolleybus Tour: urban adventure during the Volunteering Week in Chisinau. See how you can get a free tour!

On 11 October, young people from Chisinau are invited to take part in a unique activity organized in the framework of Volunteering Week – a tour with the Tourist Trolleybus, where stories and history of the city are intertwined in an inspiring ride.

What does this experience bring?

The Tourist Trolleybus Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Chisinau through the prism of the city’s most beautiful and captivating stories. The event is dedicated to young people passionate about volunteering, who will have the chance to discover the city’s secrets and connect with other volunteers.

Event details

  • Date: October 11, 2024
  • Time: 14:00 / 16:00
  • Location: Chisinau
  • Participation: Free of charge (for young volunteers)

Access to this tour is a gesture of recognition of young people’s involvement in volunteering. The tour is an excellent opportunity for those who want to combine fun with learning and get to know better the city they live in.

How can you sign up?

Participation is free, but places are limited. Those interested can register by filling in the registration form.

Why take part?

As well as discovering fascinating stories about Chisinau, you will have the opportunity to connect with other young people passionate about volunteering, sharing experiences and ideas in a relaxed and positive atmosphere.

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy an urban ride with the Tourist Trolley and get inspired by the history of the city!

Open registration for the new series of workshops at the cooking club of the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center.

The Chisinau Municipal Youth Center announces the opening of registration for a new group of young cooking enthusiasts within the Cooking Club. The new series of workshops will start on October 11, at 17:00 and will be coordinated by Mrs. Coralia Babcenco, an expert in the culinary art.

Program details

The workshops will take place every Friday at 17:00 at the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center. Participation is free and open to all young people aged between 14 and 35. Those who sign up will have the opportunity to learn the secrets of gastronomy, experiment with new recipes and develop their skills in the kitchen, alongside other young people with the same passions.

Why join?

In addition to gaining practical skills in the art of cooking, participants will have the opportunity to socialize and be part of a vibrant community of young people who share the same passion for gastronomy. The Cooking Club is the perfect place to express your culinary creativity and connect with new friends.

How to join?

If you are interested in participating, sign up now by filling in the application form and get ready to cook with us! Places are limited, so don’t miss your chance to join this program.

Important info:

  • Start date: October 11, 2024
  • Time: 17:00
  • Location: Chisinau Municipal Youth Center
  • Participation: Free (for young people between 14 and 35 years old)

Join us and explore the wonderful world of culinary art!

Concert in the Great National Assembly Square on October 13 on the occasion of Chisinau’s anniversary

On 13 October, the Great National Assembly Square will become the center of fun, where young people from Chisinau and beyond are invited to attend an extraordinary concert organized in the framework of the celebration of Chisinau’s anniversary. With a high-energy stage and renowned artists, the event promises an unforgettable evening of vibrant music and an electrifying atmosphere.

The evening’s line-up brings some of the most popular artists of the moment to the stage, ready to put on a spectacular show:

  • Mark Stam, the singer of the hit “Just Us”, loved by the youth of Moldova and Romania
  • Sun Stroke Project, the band famous for their participation in Eurovision and known for the hit “Hey Mamma”
  • Misha Miller, known for her emotive songs and distinctive voice
  • Andro, the Russian-born artist who captivates audiences with his unique style
  • Mira, the pop singer who has quickly become a household name in the music industry
  • Minelli, the artist behind international hits that will bring audiences to their feet
  • DJ Vanotek, famous for his electrifying mixes
  • Jador, the charismatic party music personality, ready to bring the energy on stage.

The concert promises to offer a unique experience full of youthful vibes and fresh music. From pop to electro, from touching ballads to heart-pounding tunes, the event is dedicated to everyone who loves music and fun.

Event details

  • Date: October 13, 2024
  • Location: Grand National Assembly Square, Chisinau
  • Time: 18:00
  • Admission: Free

Hramul Chisinau is not only a traditional holiday, but also an opportunity to celebrate youth, music and the joy of being together. Don’t miss this spectacular show!

Volunteer Marathon: The perfect opportunity for young people to make a difference in their community. What to do.

Chisinau Municipal Youth Center invites all ambitious young people aged between 14 and 35 to participate in the 2024 Volunteer Marathon. This event offers a unique chance to get actively involved in transforming your community, regardless of your experience, all you need is the desire to make a difference.

Who can participate?

The Volunteer Marathon is open to all young people who want to contribute to improving the environment and get involved in community activities. You can participate individually or as part of an organization or initiative group. No previous experience in volunteering is necessary.

What activities can you do?

Participants can choose from a wide range of activities, from greening actions to charitable campaigns and community support. Furthermore, young people are encouraged to document their activities and share them on social media using the hashtag #VolunteerMarathon2024. Photos should also be emailed to centru.chisinau@gmail.com by November 7, 2024.

Prizes for the most active volunteers

Participants can win valuable prizes for their involvement as follows:

  • First place: 5,000 lei
  • Second place: 3.000 lei
  • 3rd place: 1.000 lei

Winners will be announced on December 7, 2024 at the Municipal Festival of Volunteers, an event that will include an award ceremony for the best photos submitted and posted on the social networks of the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center.

Registration and further details

If you want to join the initiative and contribute to making a difference in your community, sign up now by accessing the online form.

Don’t miss the chance to become part of the change and win attractive prizes!

Source: Chisinau Municipal Youth Center

Young facilitators in non-formal education present their skills at the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center!

After a transformative experience in the Training Program for Young Facilitators in Non-formal Education, participants are ready to share their acquired knowledge and skills. The program was designed to develop essential competencies in non-formal education and to provide participants with the tools to create inclusive and collaborative educational environments.

The event presenting the results of this program will take place on October 11 at the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center, located on M. Varlaam, 90.

Agenda of the sessions:

  • Ioana Dica – 15:00 – 16:00: “Basics of graphic design”
    A practical session about the essentials of graphic design, useful for those who want to develop their creative skills.
  • Olga Ghizea – 16:00 – 17:00: “Human Rights. Generalization”
    An interactive presentation about fundamental human rights and the importance of respecting them in the community.
  • Marian Gherasim – 17:00 – 18:00: “Draw the Word: Visual Representation of Human Rights”
    A creative workshop where participants will learn to visually express human rights concepts.
  • Ada Covbasa – 18:00 – 19:00: “Bullying Under the Magnifying Glass: Understanding and Prevention”
    This session will discuss the phenomenon of bullying, offering strategies for preventing and combating it in educational settings.

Participants in this program have built authentic connections and created a space of trust during the training sessions. Now, they are ready to inspire the community and apply what they have learned.

How to apply?
Young people interested in non-formal education and the topics covered can fill in the online application form, available here.

Don’t miss the chance to join this community of young facilitators and learn in an interactive and inspiring environment!

Chisinau hosts VOLUNTalk – Inspirational Event for Young Volunteers. See how and who can participate in the article!

On October 9, 2024, young people from Chisinau are invited to VOLUNTalk, an event dedicated to volunteering, organized by the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center. The event is part of the Volunteering Week and aims to bring together young people passionate about volunteering and youth organizations in the capital, giving them the opportunity to exchange ideas and inspire a new generation of volunteers.

Event details:

  • Date: October 9, 2024
  • Time: 16:00
  • Location: Digital Park, Chisinau

The event is open to young volunteers who want to actively participate in exchanging best practices and share their volunteering experiences. Youth organizations are also invited to participate in the Volunteer Opportunities Fair, where they can showcase their projects and initiatives to attract new members.

What does VOLUNTalk offer?

  • Attend the event: An opportunity to discover new perspectives in volunteering and interact with other young people involved in similar activities.
  • Motivational speeches: Young people who have a particular volunteering experience are invited to give a speech of maximum 7 minutes, sharing their story and inspiring the audience.
  • Volunteering Opportunities Fair: Youth organizations from Chisinau will have the opportunity to showcase their initiatives, giving young participants the chance to get involved in relevant and impactful projects.

How to apply? Interested young people can fill in the online application form, available here. Organizers promise a day full of inspiration, motivation and networking opportunities for all participants.

Don’t miss the chance to join the volunteering movement and discover how you can actively contribute to the development of your community!

 

Volunteering Week in Chisinau: “I choose to volunteer”

From October 7 to 13, 2024, Chisinau becomes the capital of volunteering, on the occasion of the Volunteer Week, held under the slogan “I choose to be a volunteer.” The event aims to promote young people’s active involvement in the community by giving them the opportunity to participate in various activities and share volunteering experiences.

The Youth Centres in Chisinau will organize a series of activities dedicated to young people, who will have the opportunity to learn about volunteering and discover new ways to get involved in the community.

At the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center, the program includes:

October 07, 2024

  • Volunteer Marathon: campaign to promote volunteering activities

October 08, 2024

  • 16:30 – Flashmob “I choose to be a Volunteer” (Triumphal Arch)
  • 17:00 – Launch of registrations for the 2nd Municipal Volunteer Festival

October 09, 2024

  • 17:00 – VOLUNTALK: event dedicated to the exchange of best practices in volunteering

October 10th, 2024

  • 17:00 – Vlog launch: “A day in the life of a VOLUNTEER”

October 11, 2024

  • 14:00 / 16:00 – Free Tourist Trolleybus Tour (with volunteer card)

October 12, 2024

  • 15:00 – Eco Day: sanitation activity in a park in Chisinau

October 13, 2024

  • 18:00 – Party for YOUTH

 

Along with the Municipal Youth Center, other centers in the city will be actively involved:

Botanica Youth Center

  • October 10, 2024, 15:00 – Tourist guide “Discover Botanica: Gardens and Nature”
  • October 12, 17:30 – Film evening and discussion

Riscani Youth Center

  • October 08, 2024, 16:00 – Good Deeds Challenge
  • October 08, 2024, 16:00 – City Quest
  • October 10, 2024, 16:00 – JackBox Championship
  • October 10, 2024, 18:00 – Word Quest

Ciocana Youth Center

  • October 10, 2024, 15:30 – Activities in the suburbs
  • October 10, 2024, 17:30 – Focus Group “The role of volunteering in young people’s lives”
  • October 11, 2024 – Good Deeds Day (throughout the day)

Young people’s participation in Volunteering Week is an opportunity to learn, have fun and contribute to the well-being of the community. Whether it’s sharing experiences or joining the volunteer team, every step counts!