First Journey
“First Step is Half the Journey”: Adventure Education for Inclusion and Mental Well-being
This project has been funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union (Project N. KA210-YOU-FD9C8A99)
Coordinator : International Volda, Norway
“First Step is Half the Journey” aims to promote social inclusion and improve the mental well-being of young migrants and refugees through outdoor and adventure-based learning. The project focuses on creating an innovative educational program that uses nature, experiential learning, and community engagement as tools for personal development and integration.
Objective
Promote mental health and well-being of young migrants and refugees through outdoor and adventure-based learning
Support social inclusion and integration into local communities
Strengthen the capacity of youth workers and educators in using experiential and outdoor education methods
Encourage innovative approaches (e.g., visual storytelling and video-making) to engage target groups
Develop a tailored outdoor education program based on the real needs of migrant communities
Activities
Needs Analysis & Research: Surveys and focus groups with migrants, refugees, and educators to identify barriers and needs
Training Course (Norway): Capacity-building for youth workers on adventure-based learning and mental health practices
Local Outdoor Activities: Implementation of outdoor sessions in partner countries involving migrants and local communities
Video Production & Documentation: Creation of visual content to promote engagement and share results
Final Publication & Dissemination: Development of a casebook/manual and organization of local multiplier events with stakeholders
Key Results
A tailored outdoor education program for working with migrant and refugee youth
21 trained youth workers/educators acting as multipliers in their communities
Increased mental well-being, resilience, and social inclusion of participants
A final educational manual and casebook with best practices and methodologies
A series of videos and communication materials promoting outdoor education
A strengthened network of organizations and stakeholders supporting migrant integration
Outputs
Method Book First Journey
The First Journey project uses adventure-based outdoor education to improve mental well-being and social inclusion of young migrants. Through accessible activities, experiential learning, and group cooperation, it builds confidence, reduces stress, and fosters connection across cultures in Norway, Germany, and Spain.
National Index First Journey DE
The report explores how adventure-based outdoor education supports the well-being and social inclusion of young migrants in Germany. It highlights benefits like reduced stress, confidence, and connection, while identifying barriers such as cost, access, and language, and recommends structured, inclusive, and continuous programs.
Our Youtube Channel
The project’s YouTube channel showcases interviews with outdoor education experts from different countries. It highlights their insights, methods, and best practices to inspire youth work and promote inclusion