From doubts to success stories: the second anniversary of the „Jungtys“ project

One of the largest social projects in Lithuania – „Jungtys“ – celebrates its second anniversary. During this time, the project, implemented by the Youth Affairs Agency (JRA) together with 34 open youth centers, has helped more than 4,700 young people find their way in education and the labor market.

Operates in ten counties

The project „Unities“ involves young people aged 14-29, of whom 14.84 percent are inactive - not working, not studying, not registered with the Employment Service. Project manager Ramunė Rinkūnienė was pleased that 507 participants, thanks to the project, have entered the labor market, another 340 are currently actively looking for work, 267 have started studying, and as many as 480 young people have chosen volunteering.

„I am glad that young people have the opportunity to meet empathetic, warm, professional youth workers-case coordinators. They can stop, take a breath and talk, knowing that they will not be judged, they will receive help in achieving ambitious goals or taking the first timid steps. I would like to thank all the employees of „Jungtys“ for their belief that together everything is possible, for their ability to remain uncertain when the needs of the participant change, for their flexibility, creativity and courage to invite a young person to try again. I am glad that we have two more years to invite, unite, connect, invite to change and change“, - said R. Rinkūnienė.

„Jungtys“ provides young people with a wide range of individual services and helps them overcome the challenges of everyday life, motivating them to pursue education, start volunteering or work.

The project team, spread across ten counties of the country, consists of 87 youth workers-case coordinators – these are the first people that young people who join „Jungčiai“ meet. It is they who determine the type and duration of free services provided according to the individual needs of the participant, including the help of narrowly focused specialists (psychologists, lawyers, tutors, etc.). There are as many as 98 such specialists in the project.

The project is already halfway completed.

The project is scheduled to last until the end of February 2028 and will attract 8,000 participants. Today, the halfway point has been reached, so we can happily evaluate the results achieved.

„Jungtys“ travels wherever young people gather. We distribute information in various places: we present it in schools, institutions, sports spaces. We are not afraid to interview young people we meet on the streets, in shops or in sports clubs,“ shared the youth workers-case coordinators.

Social media is also full of information, and invitations to join are constantly being shared. However, word-of-mouth recommendations remain the most effective form of advertising.

„The most enjoyable part is when young people who have received services see off their friends, brothers, and sisters. Most of them come knowing what they want, guided by recommendations. The most common wish is to receive help that will help them return to the labor market.“, added the project team members.

„There is no monotony in the daily life of the “Jungčiai" employees. Each participant, having a unique story, learned something new. Sometimes it is enough to just be there - the most important thing is to show support and faith in a young person and their potential.

Helped change lives

Project participant Gabrielė is one of the many successful project examples that abound in it.

After graduating, the girl felt lost – lacking self-confidence, real work experience and a clear path to enter the job market. When she learned about the „Jungtys“ project, she decided to give it a try – ultimately it became a decision that changed her life.

„I received an invitation to volunteer at a kindergarten. At first, I was very nervous, but from the first days I felt support from the youth worker-case coordinator Edita. Working with children gave me a lot of joy and meaning. Every day strengthened my self-confidence and made me understand that the chosen direction was right for me. Volunteering became a real turning point - I was offered the opportunity to work at that kindergarten. I realized that my efforts, responsibility and sincerity were noticed“, - said the project participant.

Currently, the girl continues to grow in the academic field - combining theory with practice allows her to effectively develop as a specialist.

„The project „Jungtys“ was like an opportunity for me to believe in myself, discover my strengths and start my professional path. I recommend joining to anyone who doubts themselves or doesn't know where to start. Sometimes you need one chance and people who will believe in you. In my story, „Jungtys“ became the first step towards an independent and meaningful professional life“, said Gabrielle.

Young people aged 14–29 who wish to participate are invited to fill out the questionnaire by scanning the QR code below. A project worker will contact you within 3 days.

The project is financed by the European Union's 2021–2027 structural support „European Social Fund +“ and the 2021–2027 European Union's 2021–2027 structural support co-financing funds.