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There is an endless amount of volunteering opportunities out there waiting just to be found by you! But there are some more suitable to you than others. Take your time to find just the right one! This activity will help you knowing what you need to look for.
“The key to success is to choose a volunteering opportunity that matches your skills, interests and availability. Once this is clear, you can start your search for a quality volunteering opportunity.”
Side note: In this activity we want to focus on the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) funded by the European Commission. But there are other private organizations also organizing volunteering services. Find more information at the end of the text.
Set your goals:
Try to answer the following questions:
1 How much time do I have?
- 2 weeks to 2 Months: then a team ESC would be the right thing to consider.
- 2 to 12 Months: an individual volunteering opportunity would be wise to chose.
2. What fields would you like to work in?
- Would you like to make an impact against climate change or express your feminist side with the right organization?
- Who would you like to work with? Are you good with children, other rather elderly people? Would you like to help refugees or people with disabilities…
3. What are you skilled in?
- Are you an expert in organizing small events and doing administrative tasks? Are you a social butterfly, who enjoys playing around with children? Or do you rather use your hands helping at an organic farm?
Where to find an opportunity:
The European youth portal offers a database with organizations looking for volunteers. There you find information on how to contact them. You can also explore the endless list of ESC opportunities and apply directly through the youth portal once you signed up in the youth portal.
As already mentioned above, there are other private organizations organizing volunteering services.
Eurodesk has set up an online quiz to help you find the most suitable volunteering opportunity for you. At the end, some programmes and organizations are introduced to you. Here are some interesting organizations and databases with information and offers for volunteering besides the ESC:
WWOOF: a worldwide movement linking volunteers with organic farmers and growers Eurodesk: the website provides general information about volunteering and helps to find the right opportunity