Youth Alive

It's not easy for young people in Romania to find a job, let alone embark on a career. But it's even harder for the socially disadvantaged children who have been orphaned or abandoned, growing up in state-run children's homes or for children with difficult family backgrounds. Their chances on the labor market are often extremely low, and the reason is usually insufficient education, combined with the stigma of their backgrounds.

In cooperation with local partners, such as the child protection authorities, and social and church organizations, Youth Alive selects motivated 16- to 18-yearolds to participate in a three-year vocational assistance program. These young people attend special courses adapted to meet their individual requirements and teach them skills needed for employment. In addition to vocational assistance, the participants are offered psychological counseling. The training center also arranges music lessons and other leisure activities, making the program well rounded.

Youth Alive has touched the lives of many children through its training center over the years. In addition to its training facilities, it has expanded its music program by reaching out to boys and girls at the I. Holban orphanage.

The Romanian charity organization Centrul Crestin Iasi – the sponsor organization for Youth Alive – has more than 10 years of experience in working with disadvantaged children and young people. In its partnership programs, the organization has been able to finance individual support for around 25 children and young people. McKinsey for Children supports Youth Alive financially in building and operating its vocational training center, including, e.g., computers and musical instruments.