Location:
Vojnic Kroatië

finished project

Background:
Many of the area’s former population of Croats, Bosnians and Serbs fled during the war in the 1990s and have not returned. The families who stayed behind consist mostly of women and youth, and it is difficult to find jobs that can provide for the families.

The very isolated region of Vojnic still has a beautiful, untamed nature. The climate is mild and pleasant, which makes a good place to find peace and quiet.

Young adults are the primary targets for employment through this project. Providing gainful employment to those who are under thirty years old will help them see that there’s a future to be gained in their area.

The project is headed by the Jorna family, who has worked in Croatia since 1998. More than 50 young people have been involved in their various programs.

• Business: Offer employment to unemployed young adults in order to help break the poverty cycle.

• Social: Intercultural cooperation and acceptance. Since Bosnian, Serbian, and Croats will work together in this project, a clear signal of mutual acceptance will be given in the area.

• Ministry: leadership of the camp will promote, implement and practice the values of trust, social help and integrity. They will share these values with all employees.

Planning the project and fundraising for it started in 2005. Early 2006, NCDO promised to double the amount of donations. In cooperation with the group Dobra Vijest from Bunschoten, "Kamp Manuel'' was developed - a small, simple campsite in the woody surroundings of Vojnic, complete with the necessary facilities:  pitches, a few log cabins, a toilet and shower block, a reception, a swimming pool and a small shop. After a difficult starting period, 2008 showed a step in the right direction.

Kamp Manuel officially opened on 1 July 2009 and since then it has already had a few guests. In the meantime, the project has been passed over to Project Duga and focus remains on completing the campsite. World Partners remains involved as shareholder.