EYCA and volunteering
2011 will be the European Year of Volunteering and EYCA would like to contribute to the success of the campaign. 3 out of 10 Europeans engage in voluntary activities, and there should be more. There are many ways how to become a volunteer, either at home or by joining an exchange programme. You can support those in need, preserve the environment, campaign for human rights, or initiate a cultural event… Below are a few suggestions how to go about it.
EYCA supports all volunteers on the European Voluntary Service by issuing a European Youth Card for them. The European Voluntary Service is open to all young people aged 18 to 30. Participation is free - volunteers also get board and lodging covered, insurance free of charge and pocket money for the duration of the project. The European Voluntary Service concerns almost all countries of the world and the project can last up to 18 months. By participating in voluntary activities, young volunteers can develop new skils and, therefore, improve their personal, educational and professional development. As a certificate of their learning experience, EVS volunteers receive a so-called Youth Pass.
To find out more, please visit the EVS website.
- The official website of the 2011 European Year of Volunteering offers a calendar with interesting volunteering events as well as an online marketplace for volunteering placements.
- Summary of different volunteering organisations and programmes put together by the European Youth Portal
- The Alliance of European Voluntary Service Organisations is an international non-governmental youth organisation that represents national organisations, which promote intercultural education, understanding and peace through voluntary service. Read more about their programmes.
- Every summer from 15th June - 15th September, a number of European communities host young volunteers aged 18 and over for stays lasting between one week and two months. To find out more check out Emmaus Europe.