WHYWith this exchange we bring together youngsters from different parts of Europe with big difference in upbringing, education, and cultural backgrounds. By bringing together these youngsters, they learn about cultural similarities and differences, and how to cope with these. The setting for the project is an outdoor setting, as we believe that an outdoor environment is very suitable as an informal learning environment. For many, especially young people and those experiencing bad physical health, stepping outside into an outdoor environment can be a real challenge. Our organizations think an outdoor environment and physical activities are key to the success of an exchange.AIMThis project aims to provide an opportunity for young people from different countries to meet and explore each other’s cultures through outdoor activities during 13 days youth exchange in Varna, Bulgaria in summer 2016.OBJECTIVES- To foster inter-cultural exchange of traditions, experiences, habits, exploring the nature, through outdoor activities,- To promote a healthy life style among youngsters,- To highlight solidarity and tolerance between youngsters from different countries,- To empower young people to feel comfortable among youth from different background,- To break stereotypes.Number of participants: 40 as 8 out of the total number will be participants with fewer opportunities.ACTIVITY 1 - Youth ExchangeVENUE: Varna (Bulgaria)DATES: 8-21 August 2016WORKING METHODS TO BE USEDIn order to reach the project objectives, the methodology used during the project activities by the partner consortium decided that the YE will be based on the principles of non-formal education (ex. experiential learning, cooperative learning, shared responsibility). These will be enriched with numerous practical examples that have brought about change and success in the subject areas covered by the exchange . All participants will be involved in the activities as they will be comfortable through energizers or ice breakers. This will help cohesion and inter-cultural sharing practices work. It is crucial that at the beginning of the YE the facilitators set mutual training rules. At the end of each day we will do reflection groups. The project consists out of an empowerment process where the young people gain the skills and experience which will help them to be more open-minded, to have a multilateral perspective, to make informed choices in the future and promote to their siblings, friends and colleagues the same principles. They will develop skills that will be used in practical work after the end of the project.Team working while participating and/or organizing activities for the project will reinforce better understanding of partners from different countries. The project aims at the enhancement of understanding between different cultures, tolerance, positive awareness of other cultures and prevent potential prejudices or ways of exclusion. Non-discrimination will be crucial throughout the sessions.Participants will also learn how to be receptive to new ideas and other ways of thinking.The implementation of this project is beneficial to all participants and participating organizations, their respective countries and the European Union.