2. Duzce UMCOR Houses

The Duzce Golyaka solidarity houses project is part of the Imece Evleri Projesi, constructed by the association of volunteers for solidarity (AVS) in partnership with Gelderland Aid of Turkey Organization, which collected funds from Turkish citizens living abroad.

This project, known as the Imece Evleri Projesi, is designed to help rebuild homes in the Duzce region after an earthquake. It was organized by volunteers and supported by an organization that raised money from Turkish nationals living in other countries. This shows a spirit of community involvement where both local and overseas citizens contribute to help those affected by disasters.

Think of a community potluck dinner where everyone brings a dish. In this example, the people abroad are like those who bring food from a distance, contributing to a shared goal—feeding everyone. Similarly, the Duzce project relies on the contributions of many individuals working together for a common cause.

The project was established through a memorandum of understanding between village heads and the mayor of Golyaka, with villagers actively participating in the construction process. Each family contributed at least one person to the effort.

A key aspect of the project is that it involves the community directly in the rebuilding process. Villagers were not just passive recipients of aid; they took an active role by contributing labor and participating in decision-making. This not only helps in skill development but also fosters a sense of ownership among residents for their new homes.

Imagine organizing a neighborhood cleanup day where everyone pitches in. If each person feels responsible for a part of the work, they’re more likely to care about the results. Similarly, by having villagers work on their homes, they build a deeper connection to their community and their living environment.

The management of funds and decision-making includes community representatives, the AVS, Gelderland delegation, and local government. An independent control committee ensures transparency.

The project implements a shared fund management system where multiple stakeholders—community members, funding organizations, and local government—collaborate to oversee the construction and financial aspects. This pluralistic governance model aims to ensure accountability and effective use of resources, crucial for maintaining trust within the community.

Think of a group project in school where each member has to contribute. If everyone knows what everyone else is doing, it fosters trust and ensures that no one person carries all the weight. Similarly, having representatives oversee the project helps to ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal and that resources are used responsibly.

Villagers were initially assisted with skilled labor, and over time were trained in construction skills, allowing them to reduce costs and open employment opportunities.

The project not only focuses on building houses but also on building community expertise. Through training in construction techniques, villagers can learn valuable skills that empower them to participate in future projects or even pursue careers in construction. This dual approach addresses immediate housing needs and fosters long-term self-sufficiency.

Consider a cooking class where the instructor teaches participants how to prepare meals. Initially, participants might rely on the instructor's expertise, but as they practice and learn, they become confident cooks themselves. Similarly, by receiving training, community members can take ownership of their home-building efforts and develop skills for future use.

The Duzce UMCOR houses project particularly supported female-headed households, the elderly, the disabled, and those with large dependents, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity.

This initiative prioritizes those most in need, recognizing that certain groups face more significant challenges in accessing housing. By focusing on vulnerable populations, the project ensures that relief efforts are equitable and that all community members get the support they need, which is vital for building a resilient community.

Imagine a school providing extra resources for students who struggle in certain subjects. By giving these students targeted assistance, the school helps them overcome barriers to learning and succeed alongside their peers. In the same way, focusing on vulnerable households helps balance the scales in the rebuilding process.

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