As part of the Interreg V-A Latvia–Lithuania Cross-Border Cooperation Programme 2021–2027 supported project “Improving Accessibility of Social Services for the Elderly and Strengthening Cross-Border Emergency Capacity” (Project No. LL-00274, EMERG), a two-day social inclusion event for seniors took place on November 5 in Auce and November 6 in Dobele.
The event brought together seniors from Dobele Municipality and Augšdaugava Municipality (Latvia), as well as from Plungė District Municipality and the Akmenė District Social Service (Lithuania). Its goal was to foster socialization and inclusion through engaging activities suited to the participants’ age and interests, offering opportunities to take part in cultural, educational, and healthy lifestyle-promoting workshops.
Alongside the senior-focused activities, project working group members from all participating municipalities held a meeting to discuss current developments and organizational matters related to the EMERG project. In total, 50 participants took part in the event, including 40 seniors and 10 municipal specialists.
Day 1 – Auce
The first day began at the Auce Cultural Centre, where participants were welcomed with video presentations highlighting Dobele Municipality’s cultural life, attractions, and points of interest.
Ilmārs Matvejs, Project Manager at the Development and Planning Department of Dobele Municipality, greeted participants and encouraged them to use the two days to gain new experiences and make new friends.
Seniors then took part in a handicraft workshop, creating beautiful handmade brooches, while project working group members held discussions on project progress, upcoming activities, and other key topics.
Later, participants enjoyed a sound therapy session, exploring the relaxing and meditative effects of Tibetan bowls and other sound instruments.
After lunch, the group went on a guided walk around Auce, visiting the local producers’ market, where artisans and home producers showcased handmade goods. They also visited the Day Centre “Baltā māja”, established within a previous Interreg Latvia–Lithuania project. The centre serves children, youth, and seniors, offering activities such as table games, exercise, and computer skills training. The day concluded with a visit to the Auce Library, where guests learned how local seniors contribute to community life through exhibitions and creative events.
Day 2 – Dobele
On the second day, participants travelled to Dobele, where they were warmly welcomed by Daiga Rapša, Head of the Day Centre “Stariņš” for elderly people at the Dobele Municipality Social Service. Visitors learned about the centre’s daily operations and the diverse activities available for local seniors.
Next, everyone joined a Christmas lantern masterclass in the decoupage technique. The creative workshop fostered collaboration and joy among participants, who made decorative lanterns to take home or gift to loved ones.
After lunch, the group visited the Dobele Castle, where they enjoyed learning about the site’s history and cultural significance. Many participants shared that it was their first time visiting Dobele or their first visit in many years.
The event concluded with reflections and shared impressions, as participants expressed appreciation for the meaningful experiences, new friendships, and positive emotions gained during the two-day event.