Allavida is pleased to announce the launch of this Programme from 1 November 2002, operative for a minimum of two years. The Programme is aimed at inexperienced grass-roots groups which have not previously engaged in international partnerships. It is hoped to make 50-60 awards during this period, over four rounds, with most grants unlikely to exceed ?3000. The Programme's aim is to encourage sharing of skills, knowledge and experience between young people across South-East Europe, in order in order to increase their visibility and to encourage and strengthen their involvement in their local communities and beyond. The Programme is based on tolerance and respect for others, whatever ethnic, religious or political differences exist between them. It encourages equal opportunities and environmental concern as well as protection of human rights and children's rights. Groups (registered/unregistered) may apply whose membership consists of young people aged 16-30, or which work with people in that age range. They and their chosen partner/s must be based in their local community, and come from at least two of the following: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania and Serbia. Possibilities include: training workshops, seminars or study visits covering skills development; joint projects, campaigns or other events; volunteer placements/exchanges in other youth organisations; action-oriented joint research. Participation by individuals in regional events, such as conferences where genuine grass-roots access is rare, may also be considered.

The Programme will be managed for Allavida from Sofia, Bulgaria, in partnership with other organisations from SEE.
The deadlines for applications will be 1 February 2003, 1 May 2003, 1 October 2003 and 1 February 2004.
Full details of its guidelines, application and decision-making procedures can be obtained from: Workshop for Civic Initiatives Foundation, 78 Ulitsa Knyaz Boris I, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria, Monica Christova, SEE Youth Programme Co-ordinator,
Tel.+359(2)980 2273;Fax: +359(2)980 6915,
Email: mhristova@wcif-bg.org
www.allavida.org