Creating opportunities within local communities for older people to lead active, dignified and fulfilling lives is one of the important initiatives supported by the European Union through the ReLOaD3 Programme.

Although older people are a valued part of society, they are often among the most overlooked vulnerable groups, facing social isolation, loneliness, and limited opportunities to actively participate in community life.

As a response to these challenges, Association for promotion of Social Solidarity “Heart for Neighbors” launched project "We Grow Older Together, We Grow Together in Ilijaš". The project is supported through the Regional Programme on Local Democracy in the Western Balkans 3 (ReLOaD3), funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Municipality of Ilijaš.

The project is a pilot initiative aimed at improving the quality of life of vulnerable older people through regular gatherings, cultural and social activities, educational workshops, and peer support. Its objective is to reduce social isolation while creating opportunities for older people to build new friendships, strengthen their sense of belonging, and play a more active role in the life of their community.

The first joint activity took place in June 2026 with a visit to the Bijambare Protected Landscape, one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's most beautiful natural areas, located around 40 kilometres from Sarajevo. The excursion brought together 36 older residents of Ilijaš and seven volunteers aged 65 and above, providing participants with an opportunity to socialise, spend time in nature, and strengthen community ties

For the participants, this was much more than a one-day excursion into nature. It marked the beginning of a new chapter - an opportunity to meet new people, make friends, and become part of a group that will come together regularly over the coming months through workshops, cultural events, educational sessions, and social gatherings.

"I was really happy when I heard that something like this was starting in Ilijaš. These days, people spend a lot of time on their own, and I think we all need more opportunities to connect and spend time together," says 74-year-old Fatima.

"What makes me happiest is that we'll have opportunities to go out and a reason to get together. It's been a long time since Ilijaš had something like this for older people," adds 69-year-old Mustafa.

Through initiatives such as this, the Municipality of Ilijaš and the ReLOaD3 Programme demonstrate how community-based projects can make a meaningful difference to people's quality of life. By creating opportunities for people to connect, share experiences, and spend time together, they help build more inclusive communities where no one is left behind.

In the months ahead, participants will take part in regular gatherings, cultural and educational activities, film screenings, excursions, and a range of social events designed to foster connection and active participation in community life.

"These gatherings remind us that we can still enjoy life instead of thinking only about illness and everyday worries. I'm already looking forward to the next one," says Safija, one of the participants.

Each new gathering will provide an opportunity to build friendships, share smiles, and create lasting memories, while reinforcing an important message: growing older does not have to mean growing lonely. Strong communities are built when no one is forgotten and no one grows old alone.