The “Together We Can'' transnational Citizen’s Engagement Activity (CEA) funded by the European Commission and led by the IVY volunteers of Interreg Greece-Bulgaria and Interreg Balkan-Mediterranean programmes took place from April 3rd to April 9th, 2022.

Its objective was to involve youth in civic programmes through the IVY programme to spread knowledge on the folds of cross border cooperation. 

More specifically, it aimed to promote the EU Cohesion Policy through a clean-up event, with the involvement of young people. The EU Cohesion Policy’s objective is to reduce disparities in the level of development between countries. It concerns all EU Member States and cities and supports job creation, improved business competitiveness, economic growth, environmental protection and improved quality of life for citizens.  More generally, it aims at sustainable development for all Member States.

Three events were organised in total by the IVY reporters Khouloud Belhadj and Theodora Soupioni, in Greece, Bulgaria and Albania and in cooperation with local authorities. More specific, the following events took place:

- in  Thessaloniki, Greece at the Summer Camps of Melissohori on April 3rd, 2022, in cooperation with the Municipality of Oreokastro and the Cultural Center of Melissohori;

- in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria at the Hunting Lodge Park on April 6th, 2022, in cooperation with the South-West  University “Neofit Rilski” ;

- in Tirana, Albania at the Fusha Basketbolli dhe Park Lojrash on April 9th, 2022, in cooperation with Agricultural University of Tirana.

With the participation of around 140 young people, “Together We Can” was successful in promoting the EU Cohesion Policy to different age groups through energizing and clean-up activities. Thanks to the enthusiasm and interest of the partners in each country, the initiative was properly implemented and gained popularity amongst the locals. It went as far as drawing the attention of local media.