More than 200 young people from 10 settlements situated in the north of the country were trained within the project “By Civic Engagement of the Rural Youth to Participative Communities” that is implemented by the Center for Assistance and Information of Young Economists “Certitude”. Consequently, local public authorities are considering a number of community development projects proposed by young people.

The project was implemented in August 2012- June 2013. Contacted by IPN, executive director of the Center “Certitude” Eugeniu Graur said the young people were able to learn methods and techniques used for mobilizing the community, including for raising funds for community projects. They were divided into groups and each group proposed by three project ideas aimed at changing the life of their community.

“The most successful project was supported by the Center by a financial contribution of 5,000 lei. The condition was for the young people to get a contribution of minimum 5,000 lei from the community and the local public authorities,” stated Eugeniu Graur.

The young people designed mainly projects centering on such community problems as the absence of infrastructure for cultural activities, the lack of recreational areas and parks, and environment-related problems. As a result of this initiative, a playground to the value of over 30,000 lei was built in Sangereii Noi village of Sangerei district.

The project “By Civic Engagement of the Rural Youth to Participative Communities” was funded by USAID within the “Moldova Civil Society Strengthening Program” implemented by FHI 360.