The Association of Natural Resources Users Velçan (SH.P.B.N.NJ.Velçan) is a non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in 2009 in Velçan Pogradec. This association was founded by a group of specialists who contributed to the development of the Forest Development Strategy within the World Bank project. The association is located in Pogradec and operates as a local organization in the municipality of Pogradec and its administrative units.
Mission: The Association of Natural Resources Users Velçan operates in the field of forests, environment, rural and agricultural development, as well as agro-tourism, to contribute to the sustainable development of the Pogradec area, mainly that of Mokra area, by maintaining a high level of technical and scientific competence and operational seriousness in sectors related to human beings and the territory, training, and services to the rural population of the area.
SH.P.B.N.NJ. works hard to increase the capacity of its members and other local actors, collaborates with various NGOs, and public institutions. Some of their projects are: the World Bank Forest Project, the Environmental Services Project implemented by the Agency for Agricultural and Rural Development, supporting members with seeds, seedlings, and additional assistance to improve forests, mainly cleaning, afforestation, and building troughs for livestock.