Colazza, Italy – A new initiative aimed at boosting youth participation in sports and fostering social inclusion was presented Saturday, March 14th, at the Green Village in Colazza. The project, dubbed Res Giovani 15-34, has the backing of the Piedmont Region and the Comune of Invorio, and seeks to address a decline in youth engagement with sports and cultural activities.
The Res Giovani 15-34 project will provide funding and support to various social, sporting, and environmental organizations within the region. The goal is to create opportunities for young people aged 15 to 34, encouraging active participation and integration into the community. This initiative comes at a time when regional authorities are focusing on strategies to combat social isolation and promote healthy lifestyles among young adults.
Focus on Badminton and Nordic Walking
Among the organizations showcasing their plans at the launch event was Gioko asd, a local sports association. Gioko asd will offer free courses in badminton and Nordic walking, led by qualified instructors and coaches. The association also intends to promote badminton as an Olympic sport within high schools in Arona, hoping to spark interest and cultivate future athletes. This focus on accessible sports aims to lower barriers to entry and encourage participation from a wider range of young people.
Regional Support and Local Enthusiasm
Alberto Rollini, the Assessor for Sport for the Comune of Invorio, expressed optimism about the project’s potential. “We expect positive and encouraging results from this project,” Rollini stated, highlighting the support from the mayors of the Vergante area and representatives from the Piedmont Region. The collaborative approach, involving multiple municipalities and regional bodies, underscores the importance placed on this initiative.
The Piedmont Region’s commitment to youth development is further evidenced by the “Piemonte per i Giovani” initiative, an ongoing program designed to support municipalities and organizations working on youth inclusion. This broader regional effort provides a framework for projects like Res Giovani 15-34, offering financial resources and guidance to local communities. According to the regional government, the “Piemonte per i Giovani” initiative focuses on programs that include social and work integration support, active civic participation, promotion of healthy lifestyles, engagement with sports, and environmental protection. Funding for this initiative totals €4.640 (as of information available in May 2025).
The Res Giovani 15-34 project specifically targets young people between the ages of 15 and 34, with each initiative aiming to reach at least 20 potential participants. This demographic focus acknowledges the unique challenges faced by young adults in the region, including limited opportunities and potential social isolation. The project’s emphasis on practical experience and formative activities is designed to equip young people with the skills and confidence they require to thrive.
Broader Regional Context
The launch of Res Giovani 15-34 is part of a wider trend in the Piedmont Region towards increased investment in youth programs. The regional government, in partnership with 39 organizations including municipalities, third-sector entities, youth and sports associations, and youth councils, is planning a year filled with activities for young people. This coordinated effort demonstrates a commitment to addressing the needs of the region’s youth population and creating a more inclusive and vibrant community.
The initiative also aligns with broader national and international efforts to promote youth engagement and combat social exclusion. By providing opportunities for participation in sports, cultural activities, and civic life, the Res Giovani 15-34 project aims to empower young people and help them reach their full potential.
Looking ahead, the success of Res Giovani 15-34 will be measured by its ability to attract and engage young people, foster a sense of community, and promote positive social outcomes. The Comune of Invorio and the Piedmont Region will be closely monitoring the project’s progress and working with partner organizations to ensure its long-term sustainability.
The next steps for the project involve finalizing the details of the various initiatives and launching the free courses and activities in the coming weeks. Further updates and information will be available through the Comune of Invorio and the Piedmont Region’s official websites.
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