Why did we do this guide?

Initially, the main purpose of this guide was to carry out an activity of co-creation aiming to contribute to give a continuity to IYE-LABs pilot projects during the coronavirus crisis that affects all the participating countries. 

Due to the outbreak of the virus, the activity of IYE-LABs was interrupted and we could not have any more face-to-face meetings with the young people, nor could they do any more face-to-face volunteer activities from that moment on, due to mobility restrictions. 

With the restrictions that came along, we had to explore new ways of carrying out social impact initiatives, drawing on experiences that were emerging locally around the world, precisely to help local communities on a person-to-person basis. We found this to be an ideal moment to analyse and gather lessons from the experiences and initiatives that were emerging: mutual support networks to alleviate food emergency situations, support for local, proximity and organic shops and producers, telephone support networks for people living alone, manufacture of cloth masks, public awareness for mask recycling, support for media literacy for young people who had to adapt to studying at home, or advocacy initiatives in order to gain free internet access for everyone. 

With this initiative, we wanted not only to give continuity to the activities of IYE-LABs but also to provide moral support to young people isolated in their homes.

At a specific level, we wanted also:

•  To exchange impressions, experiences on IYE-LABs through virtual meetings among participants promoting intercultural dialogue.
• To give continuity to the LABs during the Covid-19 crisis and the  quarantine, that affects all the participating countries.
• To cocreate a common Guide for Youth during the Covid-19 crisis focusing on how to help other young people to be more active in the post Covid-19 era.
• To think about challenges,  solutions & positive changes in relation to social inclusion and youth after the Covid-19 crisis.
• To encourage international collaboration through the creation of a peer-to-peer network.