Following a tender procedure, Groep INTRO, an organization with extensive experience in youth work, has been appointed. This new partnership ensures the continuity of operations and provides an extra boost. The number of full-time youth workers will increase from one to two: Robbe and Marie. This creates more capacity to reach young people who do not always easily connect with existing leisure activities or other forms of support.
The youth workers will be present in places where young people gather. They will engage in conversations, build trusting relationships, and try to understand what is important to them. This includes not only organizing activities but also providing support to young people who find less connection with existing offerings.
Collaboration with schools, welfare organizations, youth associations, the police, and other local partners plays a significant role. By reinforcing each other and sharing information, young people can more quickly find their way to leisure activities, education, or support services when needed.
The municipality of Knokke-Heist emphasizes: “We want every young person to have a place to turn to, even if the path to leisure activities or help is not straightforward. With two youth workers, we can reach more young people, take the time to truly get to know them, and work with local partners to find out what they need.”
The coming period will focus on getting acquainted and listening. The youth workers will get to know Knokke-Heist and the local network, and will engage in dialogue with young people and partners. Based on these contacts, they will build a program that aligns with the living world of young people and responds to local needs.
With the collaboration with Groep INTRO, Knokke-Heist is opting for strengthened youth work that focuses on proximity, trust, and equal opportunities for children and young people.
