Stand Up for Yourself!

The objective of the project was to establish active civic communities in Terpes and Bükkszentmárton that could identify and articulate local challenges and take action to address them based on the values and rights of the European Union. Another key objective was to strengthen and further develop the Association.

The direct target group consisted of disadvantaged residents of the two settlements (approximately 1,100 people in total), among whom advocacy groups of 12–14 members were established. Additional target groups included the Association’s existing membership (25–30 people) and potential new members who were successfully involved in its activities. The project also had an indirect impact on the entire population of the two villages, as well as on approximately 1,000–1,200 residents of surrounding settlements.

During the project, community events were organized to introduce EU values and identify active local residents willing to collaborate in forming advocacy groups. Local needs and challenges were mapped, and participants worked together to address specific community issues. To strengthen the Association, organizational development training sessions were held, strategic objectives were revised, and membership was expanded.

The project also fostered new partnerships with local municipalities, Roma minority self-governments, advocacy groups, and other community stakeholders. The results contributed directly to improving the quality of life of local residents and provided a model for neighboring communities. In the long term, the strengthened Association became better equipped to initiate and support similar community development initiatives in the future.