About Impress Association
Impress Association is a globally active organization based in Daruvar, Croatia founded in 2008, with over 15 years of experience in empowering youth and fostering community development. With its headquarters in Daruvar, Bjelovar-Bilogora County, Croatia, Impress also operates in five additional locations: Bjelovar, Grubišno Polje, Zagreb, and the rural areas of Sirač and Bastaji. Through collaboration with more than 90 partners across 35 countries, Impress organizes global events and actively contributes at national, European, and international levels to ensure equal opportunities for all, with a strong focus on youth.
Mission
Impress Association is dedicated to empowering youth and fostering community development by providing equal opportunities for education, personal growth, and active participation in society. Through innovative programs, international collaboration, and inclusive initiatives, we strive to support young people in developing their skills, leadership, and social responsibility.
Vision:
We envision a community where all young people, regardless of their background, have access to opportunities that enable them to thrive, contribute to their communities, and shape a better future. By promoting lifelong learning, cultural exchange, and social inclusion, Impress aims to create a global community of empowered individuals who drive positive change.
Youth Center Impress – A 120-square-meter modern hub designed for young people, featuring multiple activity zones, gaming facilities, learning tools, and a fully equipped office space for volunteers and youth workers. The center is open five days a week with additional weekend events, serving as a vibrant space for youth engagement.
Info Youth Center – Providing free information and support 40 hours a week, both online and offline. As part of the European Counseling and Informing Agency (ERYICA), it ensures young people have access to essential resources and guidance through a dedicated portal and the monthly newsletter Voice of Impress.
Eurodesk & Erasmus+ Center – As an official Eurodesk Multiplicator and Erasmus+ center, Impress connects youth with European opportunities, facilitates international exchanges, and organizes Time to Move campaigns. Over 3,000 young people and youth workers have participated in our projects across Europe.
European Solidarity Corps – Impress is an accredited hosting, coordinating, and sending organization under the European Solidarity Corps, offering young people opportunities to participate in meaningful projects that create social impact.
International Youth Camp – An award-winning, globally recognized educational camp that gathers over 80 young people annually to promote leadership, sustainability, and teamwork. Participants engage in sports, arts, life skills training, and interactive discussions, making it a life-changing experience.
Diverse Community Programs – Impress operates several specialized centers, including:
✔ Volunteer Center – Encouraging civic engagement through various local and international volunteering opportunities.
✔ STEM Center – Promoting innovation and technology education.
✔ Intergenerational Center – Bridging the gap between youth and older generations.
✔ Start-up Incubator & Job Club – Supporting entrepreneurship and career development.
✔ Child Center – Providing engaging educational activities for children.
At Impress, we are committed to fostering global connections, creating opportunities, and empowering young minds to shape a better future. Whether through local initiatives or international collaborations, our mission is to provide equal opportunities for everyone, especially youth, regardless of their background.