Northwest project - providing support and encouragement to the development of people and communities in Northwestern Bulgaria at risk of social exclusion.
The Foundation „Project Northwest“ works in different directions, and their work is subordinated to the belief that our future is social entrepreneurship. The foundation develops social services for people from vulnerable groups; creates employment opportunities for people from vulnerable groups; provides quality products and services that are competitive in the market. The foundation develops and maintains three main areas: 1) working with people with intellectual disabilities, giving them labor-therapeutic services; 2) elderly care: Home care services, Home help, Medical care; 3) food banking.
The Foundation brings together a community of people with different expertise, experience and knowledge of the social economy and dialogue, giving a good example of how a social enterprise in Northwestern Bulgaria can create employment and provide services to vulnerable groups of people.
The responsible institution is Foundation "Project Northwest", CCI Vratsa identified it and submitted it as a GP.
Resources needed
The “Project Northwest” started with a team of two. So far, the Foundation has provided funding for joint projects for over BGN 250,000, mainly in the social sphere: services for the elderly and people with intellectual disabilities, occupational therapy art workshop and patronage kitchen.
Evidence of success
The idea was for a demonstration but full-blooded project that would contribute to the dignified life of the people in the poorest region of Bulgaria, the elderly to have their independence, and the young - opportunities for development. Results for 4 years:
- WORKING SERVICES FOR ADULTS
- PROGRAMS IN SUPPORT OF PERSONS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES
- REGISTERED SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
- LICENSED EQUIPPED WAREHOUSE FOR DONATED FOOD
Difficulties encountered
The Project Northwest was created in the spirit of supporting social entrepreneurship and it is functioning at the moment. The Development concept of project is Self-sustaining model for the provision of services for the elderly, involving the unemployed and young people with mental retardation.
Potential for learning or transfer
The foundation's method of interaction and cooperation and providing expert support to national and local authorities and administration in decision-making and policy-making in the field of social, health, educational and cultural policies could easily be transferred to other regions and countries.
