Re-Act

Youth Vocational Training Project

Professional Skills for a Better Future: Vocational Trainings for Youth from Correctional Institutions

Empowering marginalized youth through hands-on vocational training and real-world job opportunities, this project equips boys from correctional institutions with the skills, confidence, and support they need to build a dignified future.

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Period:

01.10.2013 – 31.12.2016

Countries involved:

Bulgaria

Donor:

Bulgarian Charities Aid Foundation: BCause

Program:

StartUp Fund – Supporting Disadvantaged Youth for Employment Integration

Lead partner:

Re-Act Association

All partners:

CBS “Angel Uzunov”

Contacts:

Lyuben Georgiev
luben@re-act.bg

Hashtags:

#vocationaleducation #chanceforfuture #giveafuture #vulnerableyouth #futureforeveryone #SocialInclusion #SkillsForLife
#FutureBuilders
#SupportYouthPotential

PROJECT OVERVIEW

With deep dedication to supporting vulnerable youth in their transition to independent life, Re-Act Association has launched a new project aimed at providing vocational training to boys living in the correctional boarding school “Angel Uzunov” in Rakitovo. This project gives them a rare and powerful opportunity, which is missing in all national institutions: to acquire a profession and build a pathway toward reintegration, employment, and a dignified life.

WHAT IS THE PROJECT ABOUT?

In the 2014/2015 school year, Re-Act kicked off a vocational carpentry training program for ten selected youths from the CBS“Angel Uzunov.” The project is not only equipping them with practical skills but also offering a real chance at employment and a future beyond institutional care.

10 young boys, carefully selected, are receiving training from professionals and dedicated volunteers
The best-performing students will have the opportunity to enter paid internships in wood-processing companies in Rakitovo and Velingrad
The project provides hands-on learning, mentorship, and support in creating a sense of purpose and belonging

“This is how we help them dream again,” shares Lyuben Georgiev, Chairman of Re-Act.

“It’s our second year working in Rakitovo, and we’re witnessing how direct contact with the outside world and tangible goals change everything for these boys.”

WHERE AND WHY?

The Angel Uzunov Correctional Boarding School in Rakitovo houses around 60 boys aged 7 to 18. Most of them come from underprivileged backgrounds or state institutions and often lag behind in formal education. Without diplomas, qualifications, or external support, their transition into society is steep. This project addresses that challenge with action — practical training that breaks the cycle of exclusion.

WHAT MAKES THIS PROJECT DIFFERENT?

It’s tailored to youth with complex needs who cannot easily join standard vocational courses
It creates real-world employment pathways through company partnerships
It builds motivation, structure, and hope where these elements have been historically missing

SUSTAINABILITY & LONG-TERM VISOION

This initiative continues the success of Re-Act’s 2013 program “Practical Skills for Sustainable Achievements”, where youth learned applied arts, culinary skills, bicycle repair, and social skills. The vision remains steady — creating a replicable model for social and professional reintegration of institutionalized youth across Bulgaria.

Photos, partners and more stories — coming soon.