Distribution of money to Berlin youth projects: 16 groups divide € 9,000 among themselves

On October 7, 2023, 16 groups of young people divided a total budget of € 9,000 among themselves and can now start with their projects. Teams from at least 3 members under the age of 21 were up to September 17th. register for participation in the children's and youth jury. All groups whose applications met the requirements were invited to the jury session. Among other things, the prerequisites included a recognizable project character with a clear beginning and end within the current year and the implementation in the district or from children and adolescents from the district.

local effects and context

In Berlin there are a large number of active youth groups that take part in various projects. These groups often have difficulty receiving financial support for their projects. The children's and youth jury is an initiative to encourage and support young people in Berlin to implement their own projects. By providing a total budget of € 9,000, the jury enables the groups to put their ideas into practice and bring about positive changes in their district.

The jury session was led by a peer presenter supported by the Kijub (children's and youth office). At the session, the representatives of the groups had the opportunity to present their projects and coordinate together with the distribution of the budget. However, there were more investments than available budget, so a reduction of around € 200 had to be made. Some groups were ready to voluntarily save on their projects, which led to the fact that € 47.00 was "too much" shortened. These excess funds were then fairly distributed to the other groups. Some groups asked to receive part of the shortened amount as a repayment, as a thank you for their willingness to cut it. Others waived it. An interesting turn occurred when a group in the end received more money than she originally applied for after making her needs for a successful implementation of her project in the discussion.

This funding experiment of the child and youth jury in Berlin shows how young people are taken seriously in their role as decision-makers and recipients of project funds. It enables you to realize your own ideas and take responsibility for your projects. This initiative helps to promote the active participation of children and adolescents in social life in Berlin and to support their creativity and commitment.

Source: According to a report by www.berlin.de