THE EUROPEAN SOLIDARITY CORPS
WHAT IS THE ESC?
The ESC is a solidarity programme that helps young people take part in projects that benefit communities, either abroad or in their own country. These projects are a great opportunity to help, learn new skills and a new language, spend time abroad – and leave with unforgettable memories.
A ESC programme is a partnership between two or more promoting organizations. These organizations are responsible for recruiting volunteers for their projects and provide support to them before, during and after the activity. The volunteers need a sending organization based in their home country, and a hosting organization, which is going to receive them during their project.
At the end of your ESC, you will receive a certificate confirming your participation and describing your project and the activities you have made – the Youthpass.
WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO PAY?
Nothing! Accommodation, insurance, food and pocket money are provided. The expenses of your travel are also covered by the program, according to the policy of the distance between your home city and the receiving organization’s address.
HOW TO TAKE PART IN THE ESC?
- You can sign up as early as 17, but the action only starts when you hit 18!
- You must not be older than 30 by the start of the activities (or 35 if you’re applying for Humanitarian Aid Volunteering).
- You can register if you’re a resident in one of the covered countries.
- You can only apply to activities open to people from your country of residence.
- You need to register in the European Solidarity Corps portal, where you will be able to get in touch with funded organisations and apply to offers.
JOIN US AND DISCOVER ORFEAS ORGANIZATION'S ESC PROJECTS
YOUTH INFORMATION & MEDIA PROJECT
This project aims to provide young people with intercultural learning opportunities, promote their participation, increase their employability, and raise awareness about ESC and Erasmus+ programmes. Office volunteers support the organization’s daily work (communication, social media, event planning, and community activities) while developing their own skills, creativity, and personal projects.
SHORT-TERM ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECT
This two-month project involves volunteers supporting environmental protection by cleaning the forests, beaches, and public spaces, and helping maintain local infrastructure such as benches, parks, and playgrounds. Volunteers also assist with community and youth office events, promote the ESC program, and can develop their own environmental initiatives and personal projects.
KDAP - YOUTH CENTER OF CREATIVE WORK FOR CHILDREN
This project takes place in a children’s creative center that hosts children from the age of 5 to 12 years old. Volunteers assist with activities like theatrical workshops, games, music-kinetic sessions, crafts, free-time play, preparing materials and spaces while helping teachers manage the group. In addition, volunteers are encouraged to design and lead their own small workshop (such as music, crafts, or theatre) based on their personal skills and ideas.
KINDERGARTEN PROJECT
The project takes place in kindergartens, where volunteers support daily childcare tasks, such as feeding children, assisting with art, painting, theatre workshops, and playing games, while helping teachers manage everyday activities. Volunteers are also encouraged to develop their own ideas and skills, promoting creativity, responsibility and intercultural understanding.
HELP AT HOME PROJECT
This project provides organized support to elderly people and individuals with special needs, offering services such as psychological advice, nursing, housekeeping, shopping, bill payment, and medical assistance through regular home visits. Volunteers also assist staff at the local elderly center (KAPI) by participating in activities like choir, crafts, traditional arts, and excursions, helping improve the quality of life and social inclusion of those supported.
YOU ARE FROM GREECE AND ARE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING WITH THE ESC ABROAD?
We are also a sending organization within the European Solidarity Corps. We support young people interested in volunteering abroad by helping them prepare their applications and guiding them throughout the process. If you’re interested in participating or have any questions, feel free to get in touch with us!
