MLADINSKI CENTER DRAVINJSKE DOLINE ZAVOD

Youth center of Dravinja valley was established in 2003 by the Students club of Dravinja valley and is a private institute and social enterprise that is working with youth on local, regional, national and international level. Our vision is the activation of young people, promotion of active citizenship, raising cultural competencies, increasing social responsibility, promoting youth mobility on national and international level and non-formal education. Youth center of Dravinja valley also provides space for the operation of a number of youth associations in the municipality, music groups, choirs and other organizations. In the local area we are perceived as an important player, we are achieving the highest ratings among youth centers on the national level, internationally we are among the most active youth organizations. Mainly our activities focus on activating youth and including them in active project development and implementation on different levels. Our core activities are divided into 4 pillars: youth center, cultural event center MC Patriot, intergenerational center and entrepreneurship incubator Kreaktor. Program pillar “youth center” is an organizer and supporter of various non-formal education for youngsters on local, regional, national and international level. It promotes voluntarism, active citizenship, intergenerational dialogue, healthy lifestyle, social inclusion and tackles various challenges such as mental health, unemployment, integration of migrants, environmental issues, digital transformation, sustainable development etc. In cultural event center MC Patriot we take care of promotion of young unknown bands, organize concerts, theatre plays, reading clubs, art exhibitions and different cultural events. Intergenerational center is carrying out activities that connect generations and prevent slipping into social exclusion. Program pillar »Kreaktor« promotes social entrepreneurship, co-working and increases employability of young people. It’s aimed at young people to enhance employability competencies and at incubating jobs for young people in co-working community. Activities cover different areas: non-formal learning and training, young people's access to the labor market and youth entrepreneurship development, stimulating creativity and innovation of young people. We have at disposal a 3D lab where 3D printers, 3D scanners and 3D pens are available. We also offer professional, technical and financial support to organized and unorganized groups of youth. Our target group are also NEET youngsters and youngsters with fewer opportunities, with which we are working on a long-term basis through including them in projects and activities according to their needs and interests.