So you like the idea?
If you are looking at this page, there’s a good chance you have an interest in youth development and get excited about the numerous possibilities for potential projects in your area. Our mission over the past year has been focused on simplifying the process for others to start such projects.
Although youth clubs aren’t necessarily a unique venture, the fulfillment and joy you can find in their midst speak wonders to their success. We write from experience, having started several Palala Clubs in rural Africa. While all circumstances, locations and individuals aren’t the same, we hope this resource blog allows you to experience the joy we have. Please let us know if there are any questions you have beyond what you find on this page. Good luck in your endeavors.
Key Components
- A central meeting place within the local community like a school meeting hall, community center or OVC center – a place that is very accessible by all those involved
- A regular day of the week and a set time for the club to meet
- Teachers or community members to volunteer as Counterpart Leaders
- HIV/AIDS component(s) in terms of lessons, crafts and other projects (especially for those getting funding through a VAST Grant)
Variations: Make It Your Own
- Number of youth involved
- Age group targeted
- Length of the club year
- Lesson topics
- Crafts/projects (You may have a particular interest or skill that others don’t. Take advantage of that. Remember to keep in mind that tangible skills should be included in at least some of the activities chosen.)
- Number of Counterpart Leaders
- Will it be a self-sustaining club (selling craft projects, etc.) or will outside donors be the sole funding source?
Funding Options
Funding is often a huge hurdle for many people to overcome when starting significant projects that rely on money. Don’t be discouraged. There are many options available and many organizations that are looking for these types of projects to fund. Although we’ve focused primarily on one source for our main funding, we’ve listed a few options below that may help you as you begin your brainstorming:
- For Peace Corps Volunteers, there are several different options for funding. Depending upon your country of service and available resources, the options may vary. The source readily available for our use in South Africa was VAST grants through PEPFAR. See our Shared Resources page for copies of our VAST Proposals. We suggest speaking with your APCD about your options.
- Solicit funding from organizations and groups back home: churches, similar clubs, past employers, family & friends, etc.
- Do fund raising within your local community. Take photos for a small profit. Look for local businesses in the nearest towns and ask for donations of supplies.
- Once a club is underway, you can start fund raising through the sale of craft projects within the local community.
This page has the following sub pages.
