„The European Dream – Visions and realities“– this is the title the next youth exchange in Detmold will carry. 48 participants of all cardinal directions of Europe are invited: from Savonlinna/ Finnland, Saint- Omer/ France, Hasselt/ Belgium, and Oraiokastro/ Greece as well as from the befriended city of Verona/ Italy and the twin town of Kreis Lippe Kaunas/ Lithuania, Chodziez/ Poland – and -the "youngest" Partner since September 2015- Lutsk/ Ukraine. Young people aged 16 to 20 years will interact during workshops, discussions, games and conversations during 9 days in Detmolds youth hostel and talk about values and achievements within the European community in English language. The focus will be on the youth’s interests. Thereby they will get to know each other as well as their countries, cultures and lifestyles. The idea of unified Europe is taken for granted by many young people. But what was it that moved the founding members, which civil rights were approached and what more achievements are there? Together with members of the Europe-Union the roots of the EU and its values will be explored. The future obstacles the EU will have to face will be analyzed and possibilities and solutions searched. The EU- representative Petra Kammerevert and the newly elected head of district Dr. Axel Lehmann will discuss with the young Europeans about the European future and their possible involvement. The visit of a refugee shelter and joined activities with teenage refugees will set the focus on the challenges within Europe. By visiting the Lippische Landeskirche (regional church) and a mosque, the religious freedom in Europe will be witnessed. The young Europeans will discuss the influence on the county and the meaning of town-twinnings with the county commissioner. Besides that games and sports won’t miss out in these eventful days. To explore Detmold and the surroundings will be on the program, too, which is also designed by the participants. Especially invited are those, who are restricted or have limited chances, those who otherwise may not make contact to other European youths.The young Europeans will get information about education and the job market at the University of Bielefeld and the jobcenter in Detmold, that – age-wise - move between school and working world. This and the reception of a European youthpass will increase their chance to find a great job. Maybe we will see one or the other participant on regional streets again.Stadt Detmold wants to enable young people to think outside of the box. It will go to show, that for your own future, Europe, which brings so many possibilities, will have to be arranged actively. For financial aid the city of Detmold is applying at the EU in the program Erasmus+ youth in action.