Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Antwerp opens neighborhood secretariats to youth associations, offering vital space for meetings and administration amid growing demand for communal facilities.
By giving them access to the neighborhood secretariats, the city hopes to make accommodations for them. Although Antwerp now has ten neighborhood secretariats, the general public is not yet familiar with them.
Although Antwerp has had neighborhood secretariats for 20 years, the public is still unaware of them. The first secretariat started in 2005 with the help of European funds.
The Permeke building on the De Coninckplein, where the library also has a space, is where this took place.
A neighborhood secretariat provides free logistical help to associations that join. They have access to an accounting program, a printer, and a meeting space. Additionally, the neighborhood secretariat team offers networking and training opportunities.
Meanwhile, over 400 socio-cultural associations have joined, and ten neighborhood secretariats have been established.
It is noteworthy that the Polder district has at least 58 associations that have joined! The associations there might not have many other options. With 54 members, Luchtbal is likewise affected.
Karim Bachar, Alderman for Youth and Community Development (Vooruit) said:
“As a city we are fully committed to shared space use. There is a growing demand for more space and resources for youth associations.”
More neighborhood secretariats are to be opened by the city, particularly in areas where none now exist. These consist of the new Borsbeek district as well as Hoboken, Wilrijk, and Ekeren. The effort is well received by the district boards.
There is more, too, as the city now wishes to allow youth associations to use the local secretariats. Additionally, they are requesting logistical support, and the city is now willing to assist them.
Alderman for Community Development Karim Bachar (Vooruit):
“As a city, we are fully committed to shared space use during this legislative term. As Alderman for Youth, I also notice a growing demand for more space and resources for youth associations.”
Additionally, the councillor expects that the associations working together in a neighborhood secretariat will be able to take use of their shared contacts.
What are the key features of Antwerp’s Neighbourhood secretariats for youth associations?
The city places a strong emphasis on the idea of being “fully committed to sharing spaces,” which encourages youth organizations to make use of shared spaces that foster inclusivity, creativity, and engagement. This strategy improves community ties and makes the best use of available resources.
By offering administrative assistance, financing guidance, event coordination, and networking opportunities, the secretariats help youth associations function more efficiently and connect with a larger audience.
By placing these secretariats in neighborhoods, Antwerp makes sure that youth organizations can easily get assistance near where young people reside, strengthening the bonds between the youth and the city’s government.
By creating inviting, safe venues where young people may organize, express themselves, and participate in community development, the program seeks to encourage youth participation in civic life.
