VALUES Project Officially Launched with First In-Person Meeting in Ljubljana
The VALUES project has officially kicked off, marking an exciting new chapter in the development of sport as a meaningful educational tool. Our first in-person partner meeting took place in Ljubljana, Slovenia, bringing together the organisations behind this international initiative and setting the foundation for the work ahead.
This first gathering wasn’t just about planning—it was about aligning our shared vision: using sport to shape stronger individuals and more connected communities.
Topics from the Ljubljana Meeting
During the meeting, project partners focused on several core areas that will guide the next stages of the initiative.
1. Introducing the VALUES Quality Mark
One of the main topics was the concept behind the VALUES quality mark—a recognition designed to highlight sport clubs and organisations that actively promote educational, ethical, and social values through their work. This quality mark aims to support clubs in building environments where young people can thrive both as athletes and as individuals.
2. Education Through Sport
A major part of the discussion centered on the idea of education through sport, and how sport clubs can teach far more than technique, competition, and results.
Sport has the power to develop:
- teamwork and communication
- resilience and discipline
- respect and fair play
- confidence and responsibility
In other words, clubs don’t just shape athletes—they can help prepare young people for life.
3. Timeline, Deliverables, and Next Steps
The meeting also included practical planning: mapping out the timeline, defining key deliverables, and agreeing on the next steps needed to keep the project moving efficiently. With clear coordination and shared responsibilities, the partnership is now ready to move into active development and implementation.
4. Ski Running Experience
And of course, no international meeting is complete without a shared experience. Partners also had the chance to try ski running (cross-country skiing)—a fun and energising way to build team spirit while embracing sport in a new setting.
Why the VALUES Project?
The motivation behind VALUES is simple, but powerful:
Sport is one of the strongest tools we have for personal development, social integration, and the cultivation of values that extend far beyond the playing field.
Whether a young person is learning how to lose with dignity, support teammates, manage pressure, or stay committed to goals, sport can provide lifelong lessons—if the right environment is created.
VALUES exists to support clubs and organisations in building that environment, and to recognise those who truly put values into action.
Project Partners
VALUES is proudly supported by a committed partnership of sport and development organisations:
Sportski klub Volley, Serbia
Pastechl, Montenegro
Sirvintu sporto klubas, Lithuania
Institut Impact, Slovenia