Associazione P.E.CO. coordinates the European Solidarity Corps programme – CES (formerly called European Voluntary Service, also known as EVS), for sending and receiving Italian and foreign volunteers internationally.
The ESC is governed by the Erasmus Plus programme, which consists of a total of 3 Key Actions aimed at encouraging the international mobility of young people. In particular, the CES envisages that young people, European citizens aged between 18 and 30, can carry out a period of voluntary work in associations, non-profit organisations, NGOs or bodies in another EU country.
The ESC is an opportunity for personal and professional growth for young people who, through international voluntary work, come into contact with different cultures and realities far removed from their traditional way of life. For these reasons, the European Solidarity Corps is not only an opportunity for solidarity and socially useful work but also a valuable opportunity for personal development.
ESC projects involve volunteers being hosted and involved by a foreign organisation active in the social field, and they will work together with local volunteers or volunteers from other countries. During their stay the ESC volunteer will be encouraged to integrate with the local society and will attend language courses in order to stimulate their intercultural learning.
The duration of ESC projects ranges from a few months to a maximum of 1 year, during which the volunteer will work. The costs borne by the young people are almost zero, as the European Solidarity Corps is a project promoted and financed by the European Union. It provides coverage of travel expenses and full coverage of board and lodging costs. The programme also guarantees a monthly pocket money useful for small living expenses and proportionate to the cost of living in the host country.
P.E.CO. Association fully identifies with the values of the Erasmus Plus projects and is therefore actively involved in promoting, sending and coordinating the ESC projects, guaranteeing young people constant contact before, after and during their volunteering period.
It is an excellent opportunity to travel and discover Europe and the cultures that populate it
Participating in a volunteer programme also means gaining experience in your professional field
During these experiences you will have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world with the same profile
Getting out of your comfort zone is a very important step for personal growth
Read testimonials from those who have already gone through a similar experience
No, no qualification is necessary, anyone can apply.
In general no, you do not need to have a specific level of English. For some projects, a minimum level of English or another language may be required, but this is specified in the description.
Yes, you must be a member of P.E.C.O. in order to start. Once the annual fee has been paid, you can participate in all projects offered by P.E.C.O. during the calendar year.
You must be between 18 and 30 years old to apply
The Erasmus Plus programme covers all expenses: travel, food, accommodation. A monthly pocket money is also provided, which varies according to the host country.
The motivation letter is a document in which you explain to the sending organisation your reasons for participating in the project for which you are applying. They can be as varied and personal as possible. Try to explain why you are the best candidate.
Of course, it is possible to give up your project at any time and return home. Obviously this should be the last possible solution, after having tried alternative solutions in agreement with your tutor and your host association.
The Erasmus Plus programme provides courses in the language of the host country on its platform. It is at the discretion of the organisations receiving volunteers, however, to organise language courses or not.
