FLAGSHIP PROGRAMMES
National Network
Italy
Address
Via Roma 50Country
City
PontremoliProvince
Massa-CarraraMobile Phone
+393482596668Telephone
0187 439643E-Mail (2)
francescocavicchioli@maekaps.comWebsite
Click HereYear of Establishment
2019Contact Person1
Francesco CavicchioliJob Title 1
President and Youth WorkerContact Person 2
Carola LoyolaJob Title 2
Project ManagerOrganisation Type
Non-Governmental OrganizationFields of Activity
Democracy and community development, International/Cultural relations, Youth and educationGeneral Information
Maek APS is a social promotion association founded in Italy with the mission of fostering social utility and international cooperation, primarily through non-formal education. Guided by European values, we are dedicated to promoting social inclusion, active citizenship, and equal opportunities for young people and adults, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Our headquarters is located in the Lunigiana territory in Italy, a hilly and mountainous area rich in small medieval villages, ancient castles, and a deep historical and cultural heritage. This great setting inspires us to enhance and preserve its identity while nurturing a strong sense of belonging to Europe and encouraging intercultural dialogue.
We place importance on collaboration, which strengthens our ability to develop meaningful initiatives. In particular, we have a valuable and ongoing partnership with the Associazione Comunità Papa Giovanni XXIII, with whom we collaborate on local development projects aimed at fostering inclusion, solidarity, and social growth. We are also active members of the Europiamo network, where we play a role in promoting opportunities offered by Erasmus+ and others European programs. Through this network, we advocate for youth participation in mobility, intercultural exchange, and training initiatives that encourage personal and professional development. Locally, we work closely with municipal public authorities and other regional institutions to address the needs of the territory, supporting projects that enhance social participation, sustainability, and community well-being. This connection with local entities allows us to implement initiatives that are tailored to the specific needs of the area while creating synergies between local and European dimensions.
Through these partnerships and projects, Maek APS continues to foster growth, inclusion, and cooperation, both locally and internationally, empowering individuals and communities to become active players in building a more united, resilient, and culturally rich Europe.
Mission and Objectives
Maek APS's mission is to promote individual and collective human growth by creating opportunities for international mobility and implementing local and transnational projects that serve as a bridge for intercultural dialogue, non-formal learning, and the development of key transversal skills. We believe in the transformative power of shared experiences, where education, culture, and inclusion come together to empower individuals and strengthen communities.
Our main objectives reflect our commitment to building a more inclusive, connected, and dynamic society:
-Promoting non-formal education and European cooperation in the youth and adult sectors. In this sense, we design and facilitate programs that encourage innovative and practical learning beyond traditional educational frameworks. By fostering collaboration at a European level, we aim to create environments where our target group, mainly young people, adults, and participants with fewer opportunities, can explore, learn, and grow together.
-Supporting the social inclusion of young people with fewer opportunities by breaking down barriers and engaging young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in educational activities that enable them to fully participate in social, cultural, and educational opportunities.
-Strengthening active participation in social and democratic life. Through our initiatives, we encourage young people to engage in their communities, develop a sense of responsibility, and play an active role in shaping society. Participation is not just a right; it is a fundamental step toward personal empowerment and community development.
-Creating synergies that enhance culture, the environment, and traditions at local and international levels. We work to connect individuals, organizations, and communities in ways that celebrate cultural heritage, protect the environment, and promote sustainability. By valuing traditions and embracing innovation, we build bridges between the past, present, and future.
In Maek APS, we believe that growth happens when people connect, learn, and act together. Through our work, we are committed to creating spaces where young people are encouraged to unlock their potential, embrace diversity, and meaningfully contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable world.
Main Projects / Activities
The main activities of Maek APS focus on three key areas:
-Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps (ESC) programs: We promote intercultural youth exchanges, organize training courses and seminars for educators, youth workers, and leaders, and implement volunteer projects at both local and international levels.
-Local development in Lunigiana: We create educational and recreational workshops that combine art, culture, sustainability, and new technologies, providing innovative and accessible learning spaces. We actively collaborate with local authorities to generate real opportunities for social participation and stimulate the economic growth of the region.
-Human rights education and social inclusion: We run awareness-raising activities and campaigns aimed at promoting tolerance, solidarity, and intercultural dialogue, contributing to the creation of more open and inclusive communities.
Our expertise has enabled us to develop specific skills in the comprehensive management of international projects, overseeing every phase from proposal drafting to activity implementation and result dissemination
How can you contribute to the Network in your country?
Maek APS is committed to contributing to the ALF network by offering our experience and dedication to promoting collaboration, dialogue, and inclusion through non-formal education and the dissemination of European values.
We work to build strong and effective partnerships, both in Italy and internationally, fostering connections between organizations, institutions, and individuals. We believe in the power of dialogue and the development of shared projects capable of generating sustainable growth and opportunities for all.
Through targeted activities, we engage young people and adults from diverse cultural backgrounds, promoting mutual understanding, tolerance, and solidarity. We encourage encounters and the free exchange of ideas and perspectives, convinced that diversity is a wealth capable of enriching both individuals and communities.
We support the awareness of European values and human rights, fostering inclusive environments where everyone feels empowered and motivated to contribute positively to society. We strongly believe in the transformative power of youth mobility and work to provide concrete opportunities for personal and professional growth. By encouraging participation in European programs, we inspire young people to express their full potential and equip them with the tools to engage actively and meaningfully in social life.
Our organizational experience and project management know-how are at the service of the ALF network, with the aim of strengthening its impact in Italy. Together, we can create genuine connections, foster inclusion, and generate lasting positive change for communities, both within and beyond national borders.
Why do you want to join the ALF Network?
We want to join the Anna Lindh Foundation network because we share its core values, such as intercultural dialogue, social inclusion and the promotion of active citizenship. We believe that our experience in the field of youth and adult cooperation, non-formal education and European project management can represent an added value for the network.
Joining the ALF will allow us to:
-Expand our collaborations with like-minded organizations at Mediterranean and European level;
-Strengthen our local and international impact by promoting projects that foster dialogue between different cultures;
-Share good practices and participate in joint initiatives that promote solidarity, innovation and sustainable development.