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About

SPARK aims to boost political participation among young Europeans with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities, aligning with EU values of inclusion and diversity while empowering youth organizations to lead impactful initiatives.

The project SPARK responds to a critical gap in political engagement among young Europeans with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities. Existing research highlights the significant barriers faced by this demographic, with a notable lack of attention given to their political rights and participation. While strides have been made in promoting inclusivity in various spheres, individuals with disabilities continue to encounter hurdles in exercising their democratic rights, which have been made particularly evident in the context of upcoming European Parliament elections.

Aim and Objectives

The project’s objectives align closely with the specific and horizontal goals outlined in the European Youth Together call. By promoting core EU values, encouraging civic engagement, and fostering inclusion and diversity, SPARK aims to empower youth organizations and local policy actors to lead initiatives for the inclusion of young people with disabilities in democratic life.

Enhance awareness about political participation rights of youth with disabilities.

Build capacity of youth workers to support inclusive practices.

Pilot inclusive programs engaging youth with disabilities in political activities.

Outputs

  • Research Report on Youth Worker Needs
  • Capacity Building Program Materials
  • Toolkit for Youth Workers
  • Policy Workshop Reports
  • Policy Debate Summary
  • Policy Recommendations
  • Digital Marketplace Platform
  • Webinar series on utilizing the Marketplace Platform
  • Social Media Campaign
  • National Events

Methodology

The SPARK project adopts an interdisciplinary approach tailored to achieve its objectives effectively while ensuring ethical considerations and safety measures for all participants, particularly individuals with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities.

SPARK integrates various disciplines such as disability studies, sociology, psychology, policy analysis, and youth development to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and barriers faced by young Europeans with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities in participating in political processes, facilitating the gathering of diverse perspectives, promoting collaboration across different fields, and fostering a holistic understanding of the social, political, and psychological dimensions of the target group’s experiences.

Ethical and Safety Considerations: SPARK prioritizes the safety, well-being, and rights of all participants, especially young Europeans with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities. Ethical considerations and safety measures implemented by SPARK include:

  • Informed Consent: Prior to any project-related activities, informed consent are obtained from all participants, ensuring their understanding of the purpose, scope, and potential risks involved.
  • Privacy and Data Protection: SPARK strictly adheres to data protection regulations, implementing measures to securely collect, store, and process personal information in compliance with relevant legislation.
  • Confidentiality: Stringent protocols are established to protect the confidentiality of participant information and ensure the security of sensitive data shared during the project.
  • Emotional and Psychological Well-being: SPARK prioritizes creating a supportive and safe environment for participants, acknowledging and addressing potential emotional impacts and psychological well-being concerns.
  • Cultural Sensitivity and Respect: The project embraces inclusivity, non-discrimination, and respect for participants’ identities, cultural backgrounds, and beliefs, ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
  • Accessibility: SPARK ensures that all project activities, materials, and digital platforms are designed with accessibility in mind, providing accommodations and alternative formats to facilitate full engagement and inclusivity for participants with disabilities.
  • Physical Safety: In recognition of potential safety risks, particularly in face-to-face events, SPARK will collaborate closely with relevant local stakeholders to ensure a controlled and secure environment for all participants.

Partners

CARDET

CARDET (Centre for the Advancement of Research and Development in Educational Technology) is a non-profit research and development center based in Cyprus, renowned for its expertise in youth empowerment, social inclusion, and educational innovation. With a strong focus on non-formal education, digital learning, and youth development, CARDET has successfully implemented a wide range of EU-funded initiatives aimed at fostering active citizenship, political participation, and inclusion.
CARDET has extensive experience in designing and managing educational programs and creating digital learning tools that empower youth, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds. The organization’s portfolio includes over 200 projects in more than 45 countries, with particular expertise in the areas of youth empowerment, education, and technology. CARDET has a proven track record in supporting social justice initiatives, including projects that promote equality, youth participation, and political literacy.

KMOP – GR

KMOP Education & Innovation Hub (KMOP EIH) is a non-profit organization based in Greece, recognized for its expertise in educational innovation, digital transformation, and social inclusion. Committed to promoting social progress through education, KMOP EIH designs and implements learning interventions that enhance personal and professional competencies while fostering social responsibility and active citizenship.
KMOP EIH has extensive experience in designing and managing educational programs that enhance personal and professional development, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized groups. The organization’s portfolio includes projects across Europe, with particular expertise in the areas of education and social policy. KMOP EIH has a proven track record in supporting social inclusion initiatives, including projects that promote human rights, sustainability, and digital equity.

OTB – PT

OTB EUROPE is a dynamic and forward-thinking company dedicated to empowering clients in securing and managing grants, enhancing their performance in policy initiatives, and fostering sustainable partnerships. Guided by the belief that “Old ways won’t open new doors”, we bring together diverse actors in social innovation to shape progressive policies in social entrepreneurship, social cohesion, and the open digital environment—contributing to the ongoing development of the European project.
Our mission is to serve as a platform for think-tank expertise, facilitating knowledge exchange on European policies and programs while promoting European values to strengthen the European project. With a vision of an innovative, inclusive Europe, we strive for a society where democratic and social life is accessible to all, built on solidarity and a thriving economy rooted in social values.
At OTB EUROPE, we uphold key principles that define our work. Professionalism is at the core of our services, ensuring that we prioritize our clients’ goals with expertise and dedication. Punctuality drives our commitment to timely communication and reliable solutions. Ethical integrity guides us—we value profit only when it serves a just purpose, refusing any gains that exploit human or natural resources. Honesty is fundamental; we never commit to services we cannot provide, embracing mistakes as learning opportunities. Above all, we take pride in being truly European—not just in name but in spirit—believing in the dream of a peaceful, united Europe. And as we work toward success, we never forget to celebrate every milestone along the way.

PROM – PL

Polish Council of Youth Organizations is a cooperation forum of non-governmental organizations whose members are young Poles. We fulfill the function of the National Youth Council at the European Youth Forum. The aim of PROM is inter alia to promote participation of young people in public life, to inform public opinion about the state of youth policy in Poland and to represent member organizations. However, the most important task is to take action to create a coherent and modern policy for young people in Poland. That is why today we want to be the voice of young Poles in the debate about their rights, privileges and future. PROM has almost half a million people in its member organizations, which are associations operating both nationwide, regionally and locally. PROM is the official representative of Polish youth at EU Youth Conferences.

MIRA’M – SP

Fundació Mira’m is a leading and distinctive organization dedicated to driving social transformation. We provide support, resources, and opportunities for individuals with autism and their families, empowering them to take control of their own lives within an inclusive society.

With this evolutionary purpose in mind, we design and develop resources and support systems that enhance the quality of life not only for people with autism but also for the broader community. We foster a society where individuals requiring greater support can thrive, with their dignity and rights fully recognized and respected.

We are firmly committed to building a society that offers opportunities for personal growth and social participation, enabling individuals with autism to achieve personal goals and live meaningful lives. Our approach prioritizes respect for autonomy and active engagement in both public and private spheres of citizenship.

Founded in 2004, the organization emerged from the shared vision of professionals and families of children with autism, driven by the goal of improving their quality of life. Today, Fundació Mira’m operates three resource centers in the province of Valencia, providing support and guidance to more than 300 individuals with autism across various stages of the life cycle.

OPEN GROUP – IT

Open Group is a vibrant social cooperative comprising around 1,000 workers, including 460 members, dedicated to improving the quality of life in Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, and Marche. This multi-sector cooperative is involved in social and educational services, cultural heritage management, digital innovation, communication, and information dissemination.

The cooperative provides essential services for individuals with disabilities, including day centers, sheltered workshops, and co-housing solutions, fostering autonomy and integration. Open Group also addresses addiction issues through support communities and promotes social integration for those facing housing emergencies by offering transitional housing, work opportunities, and shelters. They emphasize educational support through street education, family support, and school services for minors and young adults.

Open Group plays a pivotal role in cultural heritage management, taking care of archives, cataloging books, and mediating in museums. Their communication arm, Be Open, focuses on social issues and sustainability, producing content for companies, cooperatives, and non-profits. Urban regeneration is another key area, with the management of DumBO, a 40,000 square meter space dedicated to culture, art, music, and sport, fostering collaboration among associations, businesses, and citizens.

Open Group comprises affiliated entities such as Be Open (communication agency), Publics (cultural and creative enterprise), Open Immobiliare (real estate management), and Open Event (jointly manages DumBO and organizes events).

Aligned with the UN Agenda 2030 goals, Open Group invests in networks and partnerships to drive social innovation. They participate in consortia like L’Arcolaio, Scu.Ter, and SIC, and are affiliated with CNCA, Legacoop Bologna, and the Sant’Orsola Foundation. Open Group is committed to addressing social transformations and emerging needs while staying true to their core values.

KOKEN – CY

Cyprus Youth Clubs Organisation (KOKEN) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering young people across Cyprus. As the coordinating body for 65 youth clubs nationwide, KOKEN represents a network of 5,000 members from both urban and rural areas. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life for young people aged 13-35 from diverse backgrounds by providing opportunities for upskilling and reskilling through regional, national, and international initiatives.

Committed to social inclusion and equal educational opportunities, KOKEN actively supports young people facing financial difficulties, social isolation, and physical or mental health challenges. It is a recognised member of the Youth Board of Cyprus’s advisory body and an active participant in the Cyprus Youth Council. KOKEN delivers a wide range of programmes focusing on culture, non-formal education, sports, European initiatives, social inclusion, human rights, environmental sustainability, and volunteerism.