Creggan Enterprises’ Lifehack Project – helping young people start a new Journey

Last Thursday saw the official launch of Creggan Enterprises’ Lifehack Journeys Project in Ráth Mór.

This innovative partnership with Springboard Opportunities, Roe Valley Residents Association and Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board has enabled Lifehack to be successful in securing PEACEPLUS funding under the Youth Program (3.2) Investment Area for the ‘Journey Project’.

This €8 million, four-year funded project aims to provide support to young people on a regional basis; Lifehack offers the program in the Derry/Strbane area.

Lifehack offers a targeted capacity building program for young people aged 14 to 24 who are disadvantaged, marginalized or excluded.

The program is results-focused across a range of key areas, including good relationships, personal development, citizenship and employability, and will create positive change for participants in the form of clear, meaningful and sustainable ‘mileage progressed’.

The primary goal will be to increase the capacity, confidence and success level of each young person participating.

Currently recruiting more than 35 participants from across the city, Lifehack tailors its interventions to meet each participant’s hopes and needs.

Thanks to the project, young people have the opportunity to participate in various fun group activities, accommodations and day trips; accredited training; and personal development workshops. Participants will have special opportunities to meet and build relationships with other young people from the area.

Commenting on the ongoing progress of the project, Lifehack Journey Coordinator Richard McRory said: “The project has begun working on a cross-community basis with the participation of young people from across the city. Lifehack offers a truly engaging personal development and social activity program for young people with a wide range of supports. “It is truly gratifying to see young people seizing the opportunities presented to them and starting a new and positive journey.”

Lifehack participant Yousef said: “Lifehack has been a very useful experience. I have made friends, which is the most important thing for me. I am getting the support I need and I am happy to have time for myself.”

Conal McFeely, CE’s Development Manager, believes that the new Lifehack Journeys project, supported by PEACEPLUS and managed by the Special EU Programs Body (SEUPB), will be a great addition to the range of projects and support available at Ráth Mór, adding: We can learn more about the opportunities available through Lifehack. Those who want to learn more can call the team at 02871277488 or check out the Facebook page. @Lifehackprojectderry. “We welcome all requests from across the province/district.”