What if age is not a limitation, but a valuable resource for creating positive change? In the villages of Voyvodovo and Mandra, Haskovo Municipality, Bulgaria, residents aged 65 and over are proving exactly that by taking an active role in the development of their local communities.
The project “Adults with a Cause”, implemented by Nadezhda Association – Haskovo, aims to demonstrate that older people can be active, engaged and influential members of their communities. Their life experience, knowledge, skills and willingness to contribute are valuable resources that can inspire positive change and strengthen local communities. 💚
Empowering older people through volunteering
As part of the project, around 20 volunteers from Voyvodovo and Mandra have already taken part in a training programme together with young people who have previous volunteering experience.
During the meeting held on 13–14 July, participants explored the principles of volunteering, discussed the needs of their communities and began developing their own local initiatives. These ideas will soon be transformed into concrete activities that the volunteers will implement in their villages.
The aim is not simply to encourage older people to participate in volunteering, but to give them the confidence and opportunity to identify issues that matter to them and take action themselves.
Building bridges between generations
One of the most valuable aspects of “Adults with a Cause” is its strong intergenerational dimension.
Young people with volunteering experience support the older participants throughout the process, sharing their knowledge, energy and new perspectives. At the same time, the older volunteers bring something equally important to the table — their life experience, practical knowledge, memories, understanding of local needs and ideas for improving their communities.
This exchange creates an opportunity for both generations to learn from each other and discover that meaningful cooperation can happen regardless of age.
Everyone has something to contribute
The project sends an inspiring message: being 65+ does not mean stepping away from community life. On the contrary, older people can continue to be active citizens, volunteers and leaders of positive change.
When people who know their communities best are given the opportunity to act, even small local initiatives can have a meaningful impact. By encouraging older residents to share their experience and turn their ideas into action, “Adults with a Cause” is helping create stronger, more connected and more inclusive communities.
✨ We believe that change begins with the people who know their community best and want to leave something positive behind.
Stay connected
Information about upcoming activities and events within the project is available on the Facebook page of Nadezhda Association – Haskovo.
The project “Adults with a Cause” is funded through the “Our Parents” Fund of BCause Foundation.
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