2024 Impact

2024 Impact

As we reflect on the year gone by, we are filled with gratitude for the impact we have made together. In 2024, we strengthened our reach and deepened our commitment to providing an environment to facilitate the Movement On The Ground communities across 6 countries and 3 continents.

In 2024, we continued to work toward creating lasting change, guided by our four key pillars: meeting basic needs, providing training and employment opportunities, fostering a sense of belonging, and scaling our impact. Across our initiatives, and as part of our pillars we focused on providing essential services, vocational and educational programs, and community-building efforts that enable the empowerment of individuals to take charge of their futures.

I) MEETING BASIC NEEDS

MOROCCO

In September 2023, when a devastating earthquake struck Morocco, we were quick to mobilize in support of affected communities, particularly in the remote villages hardest hit by the disaster. Our initial focus was on Search and Rescue operations, where we partnered with both national and international teams to locate survivors. In addition, we provided essential emergency relief, including distributing over 800 food packages to families in desperate need.

As 2024 unfolded, the focus shifted from immediate emergency relief to long-term recovery and resilience. We joined forces with the local NGO, Amis des Ecoles (ADE), to deliver sustainable solutions that would help communities rebuild and recover. Together, we delivered essential shelter, rebuilt critical infrastructure, and addressed urgent Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) needs across 49 villages affected by the earthquake, positively impacting the lives of over 14,700 individuals. Through these efforts, we  supported the resilience and recovery of Moroccan communities.

GAZA

In 2024, the conflict in Gaza intensified, leading to the displacement of approximately 1.9 million people, nearly 90% of the population. In response to this urgent need, we supported our dedicated partners on the ground with delivering two trucks filled with ‘dignity packs’ to individuals and families residing in shelters. These packs included essential hygiene products to support their well-being and preserve their dignity during this crisis.
Additionally, following a visit to our mission in Lesvos, Greece, we joined forces with the Arava Institute and Damour in their “Jumpstarting Hope for Gaza” initiative. Together, we are planning to launch an intervention initiative to address both short-term and long-term needs in Gaza in 2025.

GHANA

Late this year, our support was requested in Zaazi, Ghana, to address critical health, social, and environmental challenges through the installation of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities. The existing basic sanitation within the village posed serious risks, including environmental contamination of soil and water, heightened health risks from infections, and safety and dignity concerns—especially for women and girls.
In collaboration with Corps Africa and Relief Crew Foundation, and working closely with the local community, we successfully constructed 51 WASH facilities, benefitting 750 residents. Additionally, the initiative equipped community members with the tools and training necessary for the long-term maintenance and sustainability of the facilities.

II) TRAINING & EMPLOYMENT

LEBANON

Building on the success of our Digital Livelihood Academy in Aley we  continued to offer a digital skills programs to underserved youth, preparing them for secure, remote job opportunities.

In the first semester of 2024, 108 girls and boys from underprivileged communities participated in courses covering Coding, Web Development, and AI. During -2024, as the conflict in Lebanon escalated, the university hosting the courses was transformed into a shelter for Lebanese refugees. In response, we adapted the initiative into the Digital Education in Emergency (DEE) Program. Participants in the DEE program were mainly Lebanese refugees, of varying ages and levels of digital literacy, who sought not only shelter and education at the university but also a sense of normalcy within the chaos. 

The announcement of a ceasefire in late November 2024 led to successfully concluding the Digital Livelihood Program. 69 students were able to graduate with a 93% satisfaction rate.

In December 2024, we launched a new semester specifically targeting unemployed women aiming to enhance  job opportunities. The curriculum includes advanced courses in AI, Marketing, and Web Development, with the aim of helping participant’s job prospects to achieve financial independence.

ATHENS

In 2024, we addressed a critical gap in refugee support with the launch of the  18+ Shelter Project. Recognizing the challenges faced by unaccompanied minors transitioning into adulthood after leaving shelters, we introduced a safe, healing space for young refugee men aged 18-24. Through the Athens CampUs, we provided dignified housing, access to education, job training, and weekly sports programs aimed at fostering physical and mental well-being while building trust and community.

Operated in partnership with The Home Project and with the dedication of social workers and volunteers, this initiative allowed 27 residents to find shelter, while 77% of them secured employment and 90% enrolled in educational programs. This project enables the environment to empower participants to break the cycle of housing insecurity and focus on building their futures.

III) SENSE OF BELONGING

LESVOS

During  2024, we continued to implement the Camp to CampUs methodology, creating educational, social, and economic opportunities through community-led initiatives. This year, we expanded the  educational and vocational programs at the  Community Center “Ergon” and re-established a  presence inside the refugee camp.

In Ergon, we enhanced integration efforts for employability by offering Barista, Atelier, and Cooking workshops led by local Greek community members. We also created a dedicated safe space with exclusive programs for women. Inside the camp, we built 49 Refugee Housing Units, launched a Digital Learning Lab offering free online courses, opened a community chai point, and introduced digital skills classes for children.

Through these efforts, over 2,000 people participated in the programs, with 5,000 in total attendances across the  educational initiatives, helping to foster both personal and community growth.

Unaccompanied Minors  NL 

The Netherlands saw a significant increase in unaccompanied minors (children under the age of 18) seeking asylum in 2023, with over 5,400 applications, marking a 29% rise from the previous year.

In response to this urgent need, Movement On The Ground  continued operating  shelters managing six locations throughout the year. In total Movement On The Ground provided shelters to 65 unaccompanied minors and supported them beyond safe housing and educational assistance. The comprehensive support included helping children to integrate into Dutch society, manage their finances, build social networks, and participate in recreational activities such as  sports.

VI) SCALING OUR IMPACT

NETHERLANDS CAMP TO CAMPUS

Since 2022, Movement On The Ground have been implementing the  Camp to CampUs methodology in Dutch asylum reception centers  addressing the growing need for support for displaced people. The approach enables residents to empower themselves to take an active role in their environment by assuming many of the day-to-day responsibilities. In doing this, it fosters not only a sense of ownership and community but also belonging and purpose.

During 2024, the Camp to CampUs methodology continued to expand creating a replicable blueprint.  During this year Movement On The Ground  concluded two successful Camp to CampUs projects in partnership with COA (the Dutch Central Agency for Asylum Seekers): a two-year initiative in Budel and an eight-month program in Huis ter Heide. These projects offered a range of recreational and community-building activities, including gardening, painting, translation services, sewing, and children’s programs.

Building on these successes, a  a one-month pilot project in Almere Markerkant was launched in collaboration with the Red Cross. n. By implementing these tools and community led activities, we were able to encourage a motivated and engaged community, fostering resident ownership and care for a living environment.

 in total 878 community volunteers were engaged, representing 30 different nationalities, with an impressive 18,802 volunteer hours contributed—demonstrating the power of community-driven efforts in creating meaningful change.

Camp to CampUs Handbook

Additionally, this year we began developing the  Camp to CampUs Handbook, a comprehensive blueprint that outlines the principles and practices of the methodology. Designed to share knowledge with partners, the handbook represents a significant step toward expanding the application of this approach to other asylum reception centers and organizations.