Every year the FG can see clear signs of development. This year in Gjakova, the most prominent one is another charity shop, the follow up of the project funded by Y’s Men International. The second shop is also well situated. The manager is Valbone Kabashi. She puts her heart into it, it’s visible: the display is attractive and the goods are neatly organised according to sorts and sizes and even colours. Definitely this is the place she likes. The charity shop is a place where second-hand goods are on the offer; however, one can hardly see a difference between this shop and other, regular ones around. This is very good marketing approach, which pays off.
The YMCA in Peja established the their connections with George Williams Youth Associations. This local association was founded in 2004 and developed well, being deeply rooted in the community. After rebranding of the national movement, when the situation allowed, the leadership decided to continue their existence within the national structure. After a preparatory period the official access was signed. That happened during the FG session Peja on Oct 9. The municipality, which is very supportive to youth initiatives, gives a space for the activity and office. This, together with the previous premises at the catholic parish, makes quite comfortable conditions for dynamic development in both programme and institutional terms. The national movement is growing and it’s very good, although the matter of efficient governance is becoming more challenging. The national leadership as well as the FG are aware of this and it’s reflected in training plans for the future.
The FG Kosovo pays a lot of attention to development of democratic structures of YMCA. An important part of every meeting is training, which is concluded by objectives to achieve during the following year. They make sure the set objectives are realistic and achievable for the young movement – it’s not too much for a period. This year the training dealt with governance issues and had been very well prepared by the Field Group members in advance. This system of movement strengthening works, although it needs several years to be fully accomplished.
The FG meeting of this year had a special aspect. Janet Pate, who has represented the YMCA of the USA, was officially leaving the FG. Jan has worked with YMCA Europe for more than 15 years and contributed remarkably to the strengthening movements of South East Europe. That has been a big support to YMCA Europe and enormous benefit of national movements. The process of movement strengthening in countries of young democracies has been very challenging and had both good and difficult moments. Also the YMCA in Kosovo did not avoid its ups and downs. Jan has been with the Kosovo leaders in the most critical moments and together with other FG members and YE staff helped to overcome major problems. Jan is retiring at the moment when the things are going very well. We are sure she will be watching how the YMCA Kosovo story is unfolding and we will always update her with pleasure. Thank you Jan!
