Most opportunities through the European Solidarity Corps are cross-border volunteering activities.
These projects are an excellent opportunity to help where needed, learn new skills, spend time abroad, maybe learn a language – and definitely come back with unforgettable memories.
With the wide range of issues covered by the projects (such as environment, health, inclusion, digital technologies, culture, sport), you’re sure to find something to match your interests and background.
You have the choice between volunteering individually and in teams.
Individual Volunteering
* can last from 2 months up to 12 months
* is full-time (between 30 and 38 hours a week)
* allows you to contribute to the daily work of an organisation that is actively benefiting the local community
* is usually ‘cross-border’ – i.e. in a different country to where you live (though it can be there too – these are called ‘in-country’ projects)
* in some cases, you can take part for a shorter time (from 2 weeks to 2 months) – for example for participants with fewer opportunities, or disabilities
Team Volunteering
If you can’t commit for a long period, but still want to help the community, then check out team volunteering, which:
* can last between 2 weeks and 2 months
* is full-time (between 30 and 38 hours a week)
* you volunteer with people from at least 2 different countries
* the group will be between 10 and 40 volunteers and include people with fewer opportunities
* is usually abroad, though it can be in your home country
Supporting and Host Organisations
If you’re going abroad for individual volunteering, 2 organisations are involved:
* supporting organisation – based in your home country, will help you prepare for your experience abroad (it used to be called ‘sending organisation’).
* host organisation – will receive and help you in your destination country.
You can search for a potential supporting organisation on the accredited/Quality-Labelled organisation database.
Who can volunteer?
European Solidarity Corps volunteering activities are open to 18-30 year old people who reside in programme and partner countries.
What is covered?
* You are covered by a complementary insurance
* You can access a range of support services such as linguistic support and training
* Your basic costs will be covered (your travel to and from the project, accommodation and food)
* You’ll also receive a small allowance for personal expenses (€3-6 a day, depending on the country)
* If you have specific needs (e.g. a disability), these costs may also be covered