More than 25 participants from all over the country took part in the online meetings of the competition for parent groups under the program “Parenting 2.0, more than care”. Held between March 12 and 18, 2026, the meetings brought together people who want to support vulnerable families and work to prevent children from being separated from their parents.
During the information meetings , the participants got acquainted with the objectives of the program and the competition, learned which activities are eligible, how projects are evaluated and what are the conditions for application. The host was Iliana Nikolova, Executive Director of WCIF.
The training session provided guidance on how to fill out the application form, how to structure goals, activities and budget, as well as what are the most common mistakes. The presenter was Monika Pisankaneva, Program Director at WCIF.
The meetings emphasized the importance of informed parents for the creation of practices and initiatives that support vulnerable families and work to prevent the separation of children from their families.
Competition for parent groups
The program encourages the creation of informal parent groups that actively work in the community to support parents and children in different life situations.
Groups may include parents of children with disabilities, parents with disabilities, single and large parents, representatives of ethnic minorities or survivors of violence. There is no requirement for prior project experience.
Initiatives can focus on: self-help and mutual support between parents, improving the relationship with institutions, exchange of experience between parent groups, developing knowledge and skills for parenting capacity and advocacy, etc.
The maximum budget for an approved project is up to €10,000, with a duration of 10–24 months. Applications shall be made through the WCIF electronic system by 4 May 2026.
Submit a project and help families in needhere.
Training program
Approved parent groups will have the opportunity not only to contribute to supporting families in need, but also to gain access to a training program for the development of parental activism.
The program includes basic trainings in team management, communication and accountability, as well as practical modules led by experienced parent activists and external experts. Topics cover advocacy, networking, child and adult safety, working in a multicultural environment, conflict resolution and anti-discrimination approaches.
Participants will have the opportunity for online and live trainings, exchange visits between groups, participation in public forums and mentoring sessions promoting long-term engagement and mutual support.
Parenthood 2.0, more than care program
The “Parenthood 2.0, More than Care” program is implemented by the Workshop for Civic Initiatives Foundation with the support of the “Tanya’s Dream” Fund.
Its main goal is to establish parents as an active and sustainable force for raising children in a family environment. The program encourages their participation as full partners in decision-making processes, as well as in the creation and change of policies, programs and practices affecting children and families in Bulgaria.
By supporting local and national initiatives, the program puts parents at the center of social justice efforts, recognizing their expertise and voice as a key resource for sustainable change. You can learn more about the program here.