On 20 December 2025, a networking event organised by the Society “Park of Intellect” took place at the “Monika Centrum Hotels”. The aim of the event was to promote cooperation between non-governmental organisations and residents, with a particular focus on representing the interests of older adults and preventing age discrimination in Latvia. The event brought together NGO representatives from various fields and members of the project’s target group, creating a multifaceted discussion environment and a practical platform for cooperation.
The event was opened by the Chair of the Board of the Society “Park of Intellect” and Project Manager of “The Power of Participation,” Dr. philol., Professor Maija Burima. She encouraged those present to engage actively in dialogue, share experiences, and develop sustainable cooperation initiatives aimed at strengthening the representation of the interests of silver-age adults and preventing age discrimination in Latvia. M. Burima presented an overview of the implementation process, objectives, and achievements of the project “The Power of Participation,” emphasising that the project promotes civic participation, strengthens the capacity of non-governmental organisations, and fosters cross-sectoral cooperation in building social cohesion and an inclusive environment.
During the event, emphasis was placed on establishing and strengthening cooperation with NGOs whose activities are related to the protection of the rights of silver-age adults, as well as on promoting collaboration with the competence contact point “Silver Academy.” Participants were introduced to the training modules and consultations offered by the “Silver Academy” and received practical information on the application procedure for obtaining the required training and consultations.
The networking event was attended by Zaiga Lāce, Board Member of the society “Nākam gaismā,” Mariana Hroshovyk, Board Member of the society “Latvijas ukraiņu kongress,” and Oleksii Zarychanskii, Board Member of the society “Eiropa: būt kopā.” They introduced those present to their organisations’ areas of activity, objectives, and experience to date. In presenting NGO activities, emphasis was placed on diverse forms of public engagement as well as on opportunities for cooperation between non-governmental organisations and local communities.
The event continued with group work and an exchange of experiences, during which participants shared practical examples, discussed current challenges, and identified potential directions for future cooperation. This format fostered open dialogue, mutual trust, and the development of sustainable cooperation initiatives, thereby strengthening the role of NGOs in promoting social cohesion.
The networking event made a significant contribution to strengthening the NGO cooperation network, increasing public awareness of the prevention of age discrimination and the development of support mechanisms for silver-age adults.
This publication has been prepared with financial support from the Society Integration Foundation, using funds from the Latvian state budget.
Responsibility for the content of the publication lies with the Daugavpils University Society for Lifelong Learning, Culture, and Science Communication “Park of Intellect.”
