YEPP is a collaborative initiative of several European and US foundations, the International Academy at the Free University of Berlin (INA), and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) operating under the auspices of the Network of European Foundations for Innovative Cooperation (NEF). YEPP seeks to address social challenges and improve the lives of children and young people at risk in defined areas of social disadvantage throughout Europe. This is achieved in an integrated and systemic way by promoting coordinated efforts and strategic alliances of the public, private and independent sectors.

During the initial phase of YEPP (2001-2006), the participating foundations and their partners identified seven local communities in six European countries, as the focus of their activities. In these sites, YEPP provided a variety of opportunities for young people to actively participate in their local contexts. YEPP encouraged local ownership of the programme and promoted its sustainability. The local processes were supported by internal evaluations, based on action research; through capacity building at the local level; and through exchanges and know-how transfer at the national, European, and international levels. The OECD/CERI undertook an external review of the programme’s development.

The current partners have decided to extend the programme by a further multi-year period during which new partners with similar visions will be engaged, new sites within Europe will be developed and policies supporting the empowerment, inclusion and participation of vulnerable children and young people will be advocated. The YEPP Community Network will continue to influence and be influenced by an international exchange of experience, expertise and best practices both within and outside of Europe.

Further Resources:

If you are interested in joining YEPP as a partner, check the 'partnership' section of our website for key documents.

YEPP has developed so successfully in Europe that it is extended to Latin America. The first country to take part in YEPP Latin America is Brasil. The first Centre of High Intensity is established in a neighbourhood of the city of Saõ Luis, in the State of Maranhão, north-east of Brazil. The organisation LARS, Latin America Orientação em Responsabilidade Social (LARS) is in charge of the implementation of YEPP in Latin America. LARS will adapt the concept and practices of YEPP to the local contexts, but will keep intact the spirit and the key elements that characterises YEPP Europe.

Please note:
YEPP is not a grant-giving organisation, therefore it does not provide any financial support to external applicants.

Last update: 31st of May 2007