European Volunteering
Since 2011 YouNet has been active in the European Voluntary Service as a coordinating, hosting and sending organisation. Even after the launch by the European Commission in 2016 of the European Solidarity Corps, YouNet continues to support the inclusion of young people, especially with fewer opportunities, in the world of volunteering in Italy and abroad.
What is the European Solidarity Corps?
The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is an initiative of the European Union that offers the possibility to EU citizens, from 18 to 30 years old, to carry out a period of volunteering, traineeship or job abroad in an institution or organisation. The maximum duration of each project is 12 months, but it is possible to participate in a “short term” project (<60 days) and then in a “long term” project, with a maximum overall duration of 14 months.
Rebuilding schools after an earthquake or helping prisoners find a place in society; organizing activities in youth centres or cleaning European beaches, responding to environmental challenges, working for the social inclusion of migrants… there are many missions that allow you to show solidarity!
The main objectives are:
- Giving young people the opportunity to engage in solidarity activities, while improving their skills and employability;
- Improving the engagement of organizations in solidarity activities;
- Responding to social needs and promoting solidarity in Europe;
YouNet APS act as:
Supporting organization (SO) for Italian volunteers: prepares, supports and trains participants before departure, act as a mediator between them and the hosting organizations, provides support to participants during their mobility and when they return from their activities.
Coordinating organization (CO):
YouNet APS coordinates organizations
and bodies on the Bologna area for the hospitality of European volunteers.
Hosting organization (HO)
for foreign volunteers: YouNet hosts European volunteers in its office in Bologna, developing for them a program of stimulating activities and providing guidance and support
during the phases of the project.
To participate in projects with the European Solidarity Corps, you must register on the ESC platform by clicking on “Join the Corps” and entering your details. Young people aged 17 and over can register on the portal, provided they are of legal age at the time of departure and the start of the mobility program.
Check out the ESC opportunities available in Italy and abroad!
Anna Nogueras' ESC Guide: a practical guide for future volunteers
This guide was created by Anna Nogueras, a young volunteer from Barcelona, during her ESC experience with YouNet APS.
It was her first time abroad on her own, an experience that exceeded all her expectations. Through practical advice, useful information and personal reflections, Anna wanted to create a simple and practical tool to help other young people prepare for their adventure in the European Solidarity Corps, making the most of every moment on a personal and professional level.
Take a look at the guide and start preparing for your ESC trip!
Discover the stories of our volunteers!
For further information on opportunities in Italy, please contact projects@you-net.eu!
For further information on opportunities abroad, please contact mobility@you-net.eu!
All our ESC projects
PRESS - Periphery and Rural areas: European Solidarity and Social inclusion
01/08/2020 - 31/12/20222
FIND OUT MORE
PRESS - Periphery and Rural areas: European Solidarity and Social Inclusion
01/08/2019 - 31/01/2022
FIND OUT MOREFAQ ESC
What is the European Solidarity Corps?
The European Solidarity Corps is a funding programme of the European Union that creates opportunities for young people to volunteer and run their own solidarity projects that benefit communities around Europe.
How does the European Solidarity Corps work?
The European Solidarity Corps is a program that lets young people join projects helping communities. Once you sign up, approved organisations can invite you to take part in their activities.
Who can join the European Solidarity Corps?
Young people aged between 18 and 30 from EU Member States and certain partner countries can participate in the European Solidarity Corps. Some opportunities may have additional eligibility criteria.
Can people with disabilities do a European Solidarity Corps activity?
Yes, young people with disabilities who would like to participate in the European Solidarity Corps are encouraged to register in the database. Young people with disabilities can receive extra support, like funding for assistance or special equipment.
What could I be asked to do in a European Solidarity Corps project?
European Solidarity Corps projects will cover a wide variety of topics but all will be within the Mission of the European Solidarity Corps, and meet its Principles. You can visit the European Solidarity Corps projects platform to get more information about what projects are funded, read their descriptions, covered topics and activities
How long can a volunteering project last?
Projects may vary in duration, from a minimum of two months to a maximum of 12 months.
Are specific qualifications or skills required to participate?
Specific qualifications or skills are not always required, but some projects may require participants with a specific background or expertise. In general, a willingness to learn and contribute is highly valued.
Is there financial reimbursement for taking part in an ESC project?
Yes. Participants usually receive coverage of travel costs and free accommodation. They also receive a food allowance and pocket money for daily expenses; giving monthly by the Hosting Organization and depending on the cost of living of the country. Additional support is available for young people with fewer opportunities or with disabilities.
What am I committing to if I join the European Solidarity Corps?
When you join the European Solidarity Corps, you create a profile with your interests, skills, and availability. Approved organisations can then see your profile and invite you to join their projects; but it’s always your choice to accept or not. You can update, hide, or delete your profile anytime.
What are the roles of supporting and host organisations?
For cross-border individual volunteering activities, a minimum two organisations are involved – a supporting and a hosting organisation. A supporting organisation prepares, supports and trains participants before departure, mediates between them and their host organisation and provides support to participants upon return from their activity. A host organisation hosts a participant, develops a programme of activities, provides guidance and support during all phases of the project.
How does the European Solidarity Corps contribute to personal and professional development?
The European Solidarity Corps promotes personal growth by offering participants new cultures, challenges and learning opportunities. It improves professional skills such as teamwork, communication, problem solving and adaptability.
Funded by the European Union. However, the views expressed belong solely to the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the Italian Youth Agency. Neither the European Union nor the Italian Youth Agency can be held responsible for them.