Let’s meet in the square! – Budapest, District VIII.

Budapest Főváros VIII. kerület Józsefvárosi Önkormányzat

www.jozsefvaros.hu

63-67 Baross utca, 1082 Budapest, Hungary

joker@jozsefvaros.hu

• Non-formal education/-learning
• Human rights
• Volunteering/voluntarism
• Outdoor activities

Concrete tool

“Tali a téren” or “Let’s meet in the square!” in English is a regular meetup, organised under the Józsefváros’s Child and Youth Participation Program, JóKer to create an inclusive community space for children and young people within the Józsefváros district.

This initiative addresses several key challenges: the lack of structured activities for youth outside of school in public areas, limited opportunities for socialization, and the need for a safe environment to engage and build relationships. JóKer seeks to empower young residents by involving them in program planning and decision-making, teaching valuable life skills, fostering a sense of community, and providing opportunities for recreation and socialization.
Promote Community Building: JóKer encourages young people to come together, fostering a sense of belonging.
Encourage Youth Empowerment: Involving young residents in shaping the program empowers them to take ownership and responsibility.
Offer Recreation and Socialization: JóKer provides activities to promote physical activity and social interaction.
Ensure Inclusivity: It welcomes all youth, regardless of interests or backgrounds.
Emphasize Fun and Enjoyment: Beyond structured activities, JóKer values the importance of having fun and enjoying time together.
JóKer aims to create a positive and inclusive environment for youth, leading to increased socialization, community cohesion, and personal development.

JóKer is a community-driven initiative that provides a structured yet flexible space for children and young people in the Józsefváros district. It operates every Wednesday between 16:00 and 18:00 at II. Pope John Paul Square. The program is designed to be approachable and engaging, focusing on the following key aspects:

• Inclusive Activities: JóKer offers a diverse range of activities, including sports like football and basketball, card games, and open conversations. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, catering to different interests and preferences.
• Community Engagement: Local social workers and youth professionals actively participate in the program, facilitating activities and engaging with the youth. They provide guidance and support while also learning from the young participants.
• Empowerment: Beyond participating in recreational activities, young people are encouraged to take an active role in shaping the program. They have the opportunity to share ideas, plan future events, and make decisions collectively, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
• Safe Environment: JóKer provides a safe and supervised environment for young people to gather, socialize, and have fun. This ensures that parents and guardians can have peace of mind while allowing their children to attend.

 “Tali a téren” comes to life under the “Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values” program’s CERV 2022-CHILD project, the Child and Youth Participation Program.

• Increased Socialization: The program is expected to bring children and young people together, leading to increased socialization and the development of new friendships.
• Community Cohesion: JóKer is expected to contribute to a stronger sense of community within the district, as young residents come together regularly.
• Youth Empowerment: Participants are expected to be more actively engaged in decision-making, gaining valuable life skills and a sense of responsibility.
• Physical Activity: The availability of sports and recreational activities is expected to encourage physical activity among young people, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
• Fun and Enjoyment: JóKer is expected to create a positive and enjoyable space for local youth, contributing to their overall well-being and happiness.

In summary, as the two-year project of child participation, JóKer has just lounged it is expected that the long term effects of the program should address the challenges of limited recreational opportunities and socialization for young people in Józsefváros. It is expected to create a vibrant and inclusive community space where children and youth can have fun, socialize, and actively contribute to the program’s development, ultimately fostering a stronger sense of community and empowerment among the youth population.

Youth workers