DU MOTION
Inclusion Through Volunteering is Possible
Inclusion Through Volunteering is Possible
The city of Dubrovnik hosted the Final event and Closing Conference of the VoBeHa project (Volunteering Beyond Handicaps), bringing together project partners and participants to celebrate the achievements of promoting inclusive volunteering and social participation for people with disabilities.
The final project event began on 26 April as part of the inspiring Du Motion marathon, organized by project coordinatot Dubrovnik Sports Association (Croatia). During this major sports event, partner organizations Team Solaris (North Macedonia) and Kargenc Club (Turkey) actively volunteered at the water and fruit station, directly supporting marathon participants and contributing to the event’s success.
This practical volunteering action carried a much deeper message: disability is not inability. When the environment is inclusive, supportive, and accessible, every individual can contribute meaningfully to society. The event demonstrated in practice that social inclusion is not just a concept, but a responsibility, one where equal opportunities create space for everyone to participate, contribute, and belong.
The second day, 27 April, was dedicated to the Final VoBeHa Conference, held in a positive and collaborative atmosphere . The conference gathered partners, stakeholders, and participants to reflect on the project journey, share experiences, and discuss the impact of inclusive volunteering initiatives.
The programme included the presentation of project objectives, achieved results, measurable impact, lessons learned, expert discussions on inclusive volunteering, practical approaches for engaging people with disabilities, participant testimonials, and partner reflections . Throughout the conference, one message remained central: inclusive volunteering creates stronger communities. By removing barriers and promoting equal participation, volunteering becomes a powerful tool for empowerment, dignity, and social cohesion.
VoBeHa has shown that inclusion is not about adapting people to systems, but adapting systems to people. The project may be reaching its conclusion, but its message and impact continue: a society where everyone has the opportunity to contribute is a society where everyone grows together.
