There is a big demand for this kind of summer activities for children and young people, but lack of tradition, well-trained camp leaders, know-how of organizing camps as well as proper facilities does not allow meeting the needs. The project of Moronica Camp is a step towards fulfilling the gap.
The project is growing together with the program of YMCA Europe YMCA CAMPS IN EUROPE and actually is a part of it. From the very start it has been liked by potential beneficiaries, by decision making bodies and by people of good will. It has been recognised as really needed and realistic – a good idea accompanied by a sensible and convincing business plan. As such, the project has gained a lot of supporters by now:
- The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology signed an agreement for 10 years to encourage all children and youth of Kosovo to going to Moronica camp.
- Municipality of Junik was very positive and interested in the idea and YMCA implementing youth activities in this municipality. They, in turn, gave a piece of land in the heart of very scenic countryside, they also provided a place for YMCA office, which will administrate the camp in the future.
- Y’s Men International – Region Denmark awarded this project with grant that allows implementing the first phase.
- Some national YMCA movements helped in training camp leaders and the Filed Group, as representation of movements created by YE helps with coordination this project with all the development of YMCA Kosovo.
Recently the YMCA of the USA got involved in the support work too. During the 2016 International Conference of Camp Managers in Frost Valley, except for the possibility of presentation, an auction for Moronica Camp was arranged. That was a very effective and attractive example of fundraising: various, sometimes pretty valuable items, were offered by the organisations represented at the Conference for this purpose and they were auctioned at much higher price. Finally the project of Moronica Camp has gained a remarkable amount and the auctioneers got excitement, entertainment and a nice feeling of supporting a good plan – excellent way of fundraising!
The dream has been becoming true in our consciousness. Moronica Camp will be the first camping site in Kosovo, this is a historical moment as YMCA is building the first ever youth and children camp in Kosovo, and at the same time this project is a part of a bigger plan. Thanks to the determination of YMCA leadership in Kosovo and growing involvement of stakeholders the project has gained international dimension.
The story is unfolding – a big part of work has been done, the synergy about the project is increasing, but the way to the point when first campers appear is still long. The young, but very progressing YMCA movement in Kosovo will not stay alone on it.
