Dobong-gu Builds a "Bridge of Hope" for Isolated and Reclusive Youth

Hope Project for Socially Isolated and Reclusive Youth in Dobong-gu
Identifying Around 10 Participants, Launching One-on-One Accompaniment Program from April
Various Initiatives Including Parent Seminar and Vitality Enhancement Program

Dobong-gu (Mayor Oh Eon-seok) is launching a hope project for socially isolated and reclusive youth.

This project aims to identify isolated and reclusive youth in the area and support their social participation and activities.

After its first implementation last year, 11 participants were identified and supported. Among them, 4 youths succeeded in entering society through employment and other means.

A participant, Mr. A, said, "I realized I am no longer alone and was able to find courage. I am grateful to the fellow participants and officials who have been with me for a long time."

The project is conducted over a long period because it takes considerable time to encourage the participation of the target individuals.

This year, a one-year goal has also been set. In addition to discovering new isolated and reclusive youth, detailed support plans for the 11 participants from last year are included.

First, a project briefing session will be held at the end of this month. Through the briefing session, a cooperative network with related organizations such as local social welfare centers will be strengthened.

Afterwards, efforts will be made to find isolated and reclusive youth. The project will be promoted through community service centers and other channels to identify target individuals. Once about 10 participants are identified, the projects for this year will be actively pursued.

From April to December, a one-on-one accompaniment program will be operated. This program consists of 10 sessions of competitions and counseling activities, accompanied by professional activists who are peers of the isolated and reclusive youth.

In June, a seminar inviting parents will be held. Not only the parents of the identified isolated and reclusive youth but also parents in the community struggling with issues related to isolated and reclusive youth will be invited to communicate on topics such as understanding isolated and reclusive children and methods of intervention.

During October and November, a vitality enhancement program will be conducted. Approximately five self-help meetings among isolated and reclusive youth will be held. The program will include activities such as hiking and outdoor camping to increase the desire for social participation.

Oh Eon-seok, Mayor of Dobong-gu, said, "The issue of socially isolated and reclusive youth is now a serious social problem that can no longer be overlooked. It is time for the local community to come together to solve this. Through this hope project, we will do our best to help youth reintegrate into society."