Youth Trip to Erlangen was a youth-led weekend initiative in Germany that brought together young people with and without intellectual disabilities from across Bavaria for a shared experience of learning, bonding, and inclusive planning. The group met in Munich, participated in social and team-building activities, and discussed future goals for the Special Olympics Bavaria Youth Board. The trip helped strengthen the group’s identity and laid the groundwork for continued collaboration.
Youth Leaders Sarah Schertel and Clemens Schindler were inspired by their roles on the inclusive youth board of Special Olympics Bavaria and their desire to grow youth participation. They recognized that many young people across the region didn’t have opportunities to connect in meaningful, inclusive ways. Their goal was to create a strong, lasting network of motivated youth who would champion inclusion.
Participants gathered in Munich for a weekend of discussion, activities, and bonding, including a planning session, group meals, bowling, and a city tour. They also reviewed and updated the youth board’s procedures and prepared for their next major event during the upcoming regional games. Despite most participants not knowing each other beforehand, the weekend created a welcoming and united environment.
The project engaged 15 youth participants—7 with ID and 8 without—and fostered stronger connections among youth leaders across Bavaria. Although social media impressions were minimal, the in-person engagement was impactful and energized the youth board for future programming. The trip reinforced the importance of in-person connection and leadership development.
Sarah and Clemens were most proud of the team spirit and the friendships formed during the trip. They improved their organization and improvisation skills and overcame challenges in recruitment by planning the event during a convenient weekend. Their next step is leading activities at the regional games and continuing to build a strong youth movement for inclusion.