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In general around 250 people were present at this really international event. Besides the representatives of all local organizations of Ukraine YMCA (approximately 170 participants) the representatives of national Y’s (80 participants) of such countries as Armenia, Belarus, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Georgia, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Nagorno Karabakh, Poland, Russia, Slovakia, Sweden, and the USA took part in the event. They gathered together to express themselves, to meet friends, share the experience, generate ideas, and elaborate new programs of YMCA further development. Participants – leaders of local youth programs and projects, leadership and staff of Eastern European national and local YMCAs, participating countries YMCAs – brought bright experience and managed to reach intercultural understanding during this event. Festival included workshops which introduced the main youth problems, trends of activity, programs existing in Eastern Europe and other YMCAs. Seminars were presented by experts from participating countries and working groups on the sub-themes: Culture of Peace, Spirituality, Social exclusion, HIV/AIDS prevention, Leadership, Sports and Scouting, Ten Sing and Theatre, Volunteering and Social services. Festival also included intercultural events: visiting churches, museums, other places of interest and national evenings. Organizations of Ukraine YMCA presented their programs which correspond to the needs of the Ukrainian society. They are various in forms and contents, but all are focused on youth and children and based on Christian values. We put the Slogans of the Fest: “We are worthy to get united!” and “Value health, rule the life!” to stress that we all are the creators of our future! Health of spirit, mind, and body is the most valuable thing that human being has! We must value and develop these Gifts of God! Let us save them for us and our ancestors! Saying good-bye to all participants, we hope that they enjoyed visiting Kiev and UkraineYMCA. See you soon, Our Dear Friends… |
