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Unlocking opportunities: The power of EU volunteering

Volunteering offers young people a unique opportunity to make a difference in the world while gaining valuable personal and professional skills. The European Union provides a range of programs to inspire young people to take action, grow, and engage with their communities. Central to this effort is the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), a program that connects young people with volunteering opportunities across Europe and beyond, supporting both personal development and meaningful social impact.

The European Youth Portal serves as a gateway for young people to explore a variety of volunteering opportunities. From short-term projects lasting a few weeks to long-term projects of up to a year, the portal provides access to placements tailored to different interests and goals. Short-term activities are ideal for those looking for an introductory experience or a chance to explore volunteering without a significant time commitment. Long-term activities, on the other hand, offer a deeper, more immersive experience, allowing participants to fully integrate into a community, develop lasting skills, and create meaningful change. We also highlight the ESC in the EcoQuest – Narrative video game, where characters discuss practical ways to get involved, suggesting projects and various youth opportunities.

Participants can rely on support organisations, which guide them through the application process, provide training, and ensure they are prepared for their roles. These organisations from participant’s home countries play a vital role in making the experience enriching and accessible for young people, ensuring that they are supported every step of the way. Besides the supporting organisation, participants also have a supervisor and mentor in their host organisation, available at any time to help with any difficulties they may face.

Additionally, the ESC offers the Humanitarian Aid Activity, which gives young people the chance to work on projects outside of Europe, addressing critical needs such as disaster relief, health services, and social development.

Volunteering isn’t just about the work you do—it’s about the person you become. Participants often emerge from these experiences with a greater sense of confidence and self-awareness. Volunteering challenges individuals to step out of their comfort zones, adapt to new situations, collaborate with people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds and form lifelong friendships.

Through volunteering, young people develop critical life skills, including decision-making, problem-solving, and effective communication. They also gain a deeper understanding of concepts like democracy, justice, and equality, often becoming more active citizens in their communities. Many volunteers report feeling more connected to European values and multiculturalism, fostering a stronger sense of unity and belonging within Europe.

Professionally, volunteering can be a stepping stone to future success. Participants often gain practical skills, from language proficiency to digital technology expertise, which boost their employability. For many, the experience provides clarity about their educational or career aspirations and opens doors to opportunities both at home and abroad.

While programs like the European Solidarity Corps provide the structure and opportunities for volunteering, Erasmus+ projects like EcoQuest play a crucial role in inspiring and supporting young people to take the leap. EcoQuest is a project designed to raise awareness about climate change and environmental challenges while promoting the benefits of EU volunteering programs.

EcoQuest supports young people by equipping them with the knowledge and inspiration needed to make the most of EU opportunities.

Volunteering through EU programs is more than a chance to help—it’s a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment. Whether it’s a short-term project in your local community or a long-term placement abroad, the experience can shape your future, broaden your horizons, and help you become a changemaker in society.

Explore the opportunities available on the European Youth Portal, learn from projects like EcoQuest, and take the first step toward a transformative experience that benefits both you and the world around you.

 

Source: European Youth Portal. (n.d.). About European Solidarity Corps. https://youth.europa.eu/solidarity/young-people/about_en

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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them. (Project code: 2023-3-SK02-KA210-YOU-000183253)