ESC Volunteering
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More Information
What is it?
The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is a European programme that allows voluntary work within the European Union, in non-profit organizations and various areas of action. The aim is to promote solidarity and understanding among young people between 17 and 30 years old from the European Union and associated countries.
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- Residence – it is intended for all people residing in the European Union and countries associated with the programme.
- Age – between 17 and 30 years old. However, many projects only select adults and most ESC volunteers are between 18 and 25 years old.
- Studies – Most projects do not require specific studies or qualifications and are accessible to everyone. However, there are projects that require specific skills, in this case the offer indicates it.
- Linguistic knowledge – it is not mandatory to know the language of the host country, but there may be cases that a certain level is required, for example: doing the ESC in countries such as Germany or Italy, mastering the local language is an advantage.
- Find a sending organization to help you find host organizations and/or administrative procedures.
- Find a host organization with a project related to your field of action.
Duration
It can last anywhere between 2 to 12 months; on average it is usually about 9 months. There are also short-term programmes for young people with fewer opportunities (if you are concerned, do not hesitate to read our section on this subject).
Eligible countries
The 27 countries of the European Union.
Other Erasmus+ countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Macedonia, Norway and Turkey.
EU neighboring partner countries: Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Southern Mediterranean countries, Russian Federation.
Other partner countries in the world (uncommon).
The list of all these countries is available on the European Commission’s website.
Areas of intervention
Some examples of areas of intervention where you can do your volunteering experience are:
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- Social action (animation and care of children, the elderly or the disabled, people experiencing homelessness, people with a refugee background)
- Protection of the environment and biodiversity
- Art and culture
- Communication
- Sport and recreation
- Education and politics
What does it include?
- Una suport ecònimc mensual
- Transportation costs
- Accommodation and food
- Language Course
- Insurance
- Support for possible visa and vaccine expenses
Special cases: short-term projects
There are short-term CES projects (from 2 weeks to 2 months), reserved for “young people with fewer opportunities”.
This profile includes people who:
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- suffer from discrimination,
- are in a difficult financial or family situation,
- have a disability,
- have difficulties in school,
- come from isolated or rural areas.
These projects provide opportunities for people who otherwise have little chance of being able to volunteer internationally.
Steps in order to apply:
- Search for a sending organization.
- Search for a host organization that offers a project which matches your profile.
- Send a request to the host organization.
- Interview between the host organization and the volunteer.
- Sol·licitud de finançament i procediment d’aprovació.
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Testimonies of participants
Testimony of Karola (Barcelona, Spain)
Testimony of Estefanía (Catania, Italy)
Testimony of Manon (Barcelona, Spain)
Supported by: European Solidarity Corps