On the 2nd-6th December 2015 Latvian Red Cross and Rezekne branch were pleased to welcome Norwegian Red Cross Oppland branch colleagues for a working visit in Riga and Rezekne. The Oppland Working team consisted of 3 volunteers – Project coordinator Mr. Tore Wien, Youth leader Ms. Margret Taarud and the volunteer of social programs Ms. Nadia Knutsen. The aim of the visit was to evaluate the results of the twinning cooperation between Oppland and Rezekne in 2015 and to come up with a plan of action for the year 2016.
During the visit In Rezekne, the representatives of the Norwegian Red Cross had a meeting with Mr. Monvids Svarcs, Chairman of Rezekne Municipality, who expressed appreciation of the cooperation and also his gratitude for the provided support to the Rezekne population through it. “We must learn from the Norwegian partners how people are involved in the Red Cross movement and especially its voluntary work, as it improves and develops the human compassion,” said Mr. Svarcs.
On the 4th of December LatRC Rezekne branch organized international volunteer day event, among the participants were Rezekne branch volunteers, staff and also the Norwegian partners. Rezekne branch gave an insight of the activities done in 2015 and the defined main programs for the year 2016. Those are: to improve existing social services and to introduce new ones, to continue the work with youth, to strengthen international cooperation through joint mutual actions, to organize trainings for both – young people and home care service workers. The great atmosphere during the event was provided by Kristina – volunteer of Rezekne branch – and ARPC “Zeimuls” Kristaps Viss` guitar group members – Jelizaveta, Iveta, Vyacheslav, Sarmite.
During the visit, the working group of the both Red Cross branches had fruitful discussions in order to come up with joint measures and activities for 2016. As the result, both parties signed a plan of action for 2016 which includes organization of joint youth camps, trainings, exchange visits, as well as the continuation of the project “work therapy” which is a result of the positive example of the pilot Project in 2015 (more information about the Project please view here).
The last day of the visit was dedicated to the cultural program. Guests were introduced to the pearl of Latgale – Luznavas manor, Bread museum, Aglona Basilica and Christ the King Hill.
On behalf of Mrs. Gunta Krukovska, Director of the Rezekne branch, many thanks for organizing the visit to Mrs. Silvia Strankale, LatRC Rezekne branch Chairman, branch volunteers and staff. Latvian Red Cross is looking forward to the successful cooperation with Norwegian Red Cross Oppland branch also in the year 2016!
Published on 15.12.2015.