On May 8, 2025, the kick-off meeting of the project “Enhancing social inclusion and empowerment of vulnerable groups through integrated and creative methodologies” took place in Šiauliai, Lithuania. The meeting brought together specialists from the Šiauliai City Municipality Foster Home and the State Social Care Center “Latgale” (Latvia).
During the meeting, the project team reviewed the implementation timeline, discussed planned activities, and outlined expected outcomes. Latvian partners also visited the “Goda” Day Center, where they learned about the center’s ongoing work and had the opportunity to experience the Color Music method—one of the creative approaches to be integrated into the project.
Project Overview
Lithuania and Latvia face common challenges in integrating diverse vulnerable groups due to the fragmented nature of their social service systems. Despite the well-documented benefits of artistic and creative activities for both mental and physical well-being, there is currently no unified methodology that uses creativity-based approaches to promote the social inclusion of individuals from various vulnerable backgrounds.
This project aims to transform the delivery of social services in Šiauliai (Lithuania) and Kalupe (Latvia) by embedding creative methodologies—such as music, ceramics, and visual arts—into the support systems for vulnerable populations. A central focus is promoting cross-group integration through the formation of mixed groups involving individuals from diverse vulnerable communities. This approach fosters interaction, mutual support, and inclusion.
A key outcome of the project is the development and piloting of a unified methodology that standardizes the use of artistic techniques in social services. To ensure the successful application of this methodology, training sessions will be held for social service providers. The project will also include a series of creative workshops for vulnerable groups, supported by the acquisition of necessary equipment and materials.
Cross-border cooperation plays a vital role in enhancing the project’s impact. By facilitating the exchange of experiences and expertise between Lithuanian and Latvian partners, the initiative aims to raise the quality and reach of social care services across both countries. Ultimately, the project contributes to building inclusive communities, improving social integration, and empowering vulnerable individuals. The developed methodology and project results will be widely disseminated to influence policy and promote innovation in national social care systems.
Project duration: March 1, 2025 – February 28, 2027
