In 2013-2014 I lived in Spain and did some NGO job as a volunteer and here is short story and a general info about the program, maybe someone will find it helpful.
( Those who are interested and want to participate -feel free to contact me, I can give some tips where to find more info)
Soo..It was a European Voluntary Service (EVS) , now changed to Erasmus + program, lasted 9 month in Toledo, Spain and I totally loved it=) I worked with families and kids in risk of social exclusion, mostly with gypsy kids, in their communities.
Here is the description from wikipedia
"European Voluntary Service (EVS) is the European Commission's project that allows a young person (18–30 years) to become a volunteer in another country for a specified period, normally between 2–12 months. The service activities can be, for example, in the field of environment, arts and culture, activities with children, young people or the elderly, heritage or sports and leisure activities. Each project has three partners, a volunteer, a sending organisation and a host organisation. The project has to take place in a country other than where the volunteers lives, is non-profit-making and unpaid and lasts for a limited period (maximum 12 months).
An EVS project involves a triangular partnership: a volunteer, a sending organisation, and a host organisation. One of the countries involved in a project must be an EU Member State or an accession country."
You don’t have to be student or have a qualification in something, the main
criteria is age and country of origin. It’s much easier to be chosen if you are
from European Union country. For me,
being Russian, selection process and visa was a bit tough but worth it.
So, again, to participate in program first -you should be 18-30 and willing to
volunteer in EU country or some others. Secondly- your country should be on the list of eligible countries. And last, you need a time and persistence to send your CV over and over to different NGO organisations until you get the positive reply.
Unlike many others volunteering programs this one will not empty your wallet- all expenses paid by EU (in some cases volunteer will pay 10 percent of the transportation cost). The volunteer will be given pocket money for food and basic needs and normally given an accomodation or the money to rent on yourself. Volunteer is also should be provided by free language courses of the country or project if needed. Most programs are long term- 6-12 months so you will have a great chance to get to know a new country, it's culture, language, yourself doing something different, all types of people you wouldn't probably come across in a regular life, your prejudices and so much more.
I can actually talk a lot about it as those 9 month in Spain really left me lifetime memories and insights.
In general- totally recommended!=)
For those who can read a lot here is full guide =)
Feel free ask questions in comments below.
Have a nice one=)
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