Five Organizations Honored with the 14th EESC Civil Society Prize

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) proudly announces the winners of the 14th Civil Society Prize, recognizing initiatives that support mental health and promote well-being at both individual and collective levels.

A panel of ten experts evaluated over one hundred projects from across Europe and beyond to select the five winners. The award ceremony took place on March 7, 2024, during the EESC Civil Society Week.

First Prize: AgeWell – Third Age Foundation (Ireland)

Awarded €14,000, the top prize went to "AgeWell," a project by the Third Age Foundation. This social engagement network enhances the well-being of the elderly through a combination of in-house visits and a smartphone application. It offers companionship and emotional support, while older volunteers monitor health risks, enriching their own lives and those they assist.

Second Prize: Lapinlahden Lähde – Pro Lapinlahti Association (Finland)

Receiving €9,000, the second prize was awarded to "Lapinlahden Lähde," a community center run by Pro Lapinlahti. Located in the renovated Lapinlahti Hospital in Helsinki, the center provides a nurturing environment for people with mental health difficulties. It hosts workshops and events focused on mental health literacy, attracting 50,000 visitors annually, thus reducing stigma and raising awareness.

Third Prize: Crazy? So what! – Integra (Slovakia)

Also awarded €9,000, the third prize went to "Crazy? So what!" by Slovak organization Integra. This initiative combats mental health stereotypes by educating young people. A professional expert and an individual with personal experience of mental illness visit schools to share their insights with students aged 15-20, encouraging open discussions about mental health.

Fourth Prize: The World of Recovery – Lilinkoti Foundation (Finland)

Winning €9,000, the fourth prize was given to "The World of Recovery" by the Lilinkoti Foundation. This project features two games designed to support mental health recovery. Set in a futuristic world, these games inspire a healthy self-image, personal autonomy, and a meaningful life. They are targeted at individuals recovering from mental health and substance abuse issues, as well as professionals, and are available for free.

Fifth Prize: Telling Stories for Good – Animenta (Italy)

The fifth prize, also valued at €9,000, was awarded to "Telling Stories for Good" by Animenta. This project aims to change stereotypes surrounding eating disorders, which affect over four million people in Italy. Through online and school-based programs, it raises awareness and provides support, having reached 10,000 children so far. The project also offers specific assistance to those suffering from mental health issues and their families, including virtual online dinners led by a volunteer dietitian to promote healthy eating habits.

The EESC extends its gratitude to all applicants and warmly congratulates the winners for their outstanding contributions to mental health and well-being.

Article source: https://www.eesc.europa.eu/en/agenda/our-events/events/14th-eesc-civil-society-prize

Photo attribution: Nanan's Diy, Hands - Art4Good, CC BY-SA 4.0