Solidarity Habitat: ESC Volunteering in 2024

A voluntary experience that changes lives

Between January and September 2024, Il Paguro Ostello in Casapesenna welcomed six young volunteers from Spain, Greece, Romania, and France, who were part of a formative and transformative experience within the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) program. Thanks to the collaboration with Giovani Senza Frontiere (GIOSEF ITALY), these volunteers contributed to the community by putting into practice values of solidarity, inclusion, and social change.

A precise Commitment to the Community

Casapesenna is a territory facing complex challenges. Social, economic, and geographical difficulties mark the lives of many young people in the area, making concrete action necessary to offer them new opportunities. The volunteers of the ESC program, rather than merely observing these challenges, became active participants in the solution. Through their daily work, they contributed to creating a more welcoming and stimulating environment for the local community.

By working with girls and adolescents from disadvantaged backgrounds, the volunteers provided educational support, recreational activities, and learning opportunities. Their presence represented a growth opportunity for both those who benefited from the project and for themselves. During their months at Il Paguro Ostello, they developed essential skills in social work, communication, event management, and marketing, experiencing an intercultural journey that enriched their personal and professional paths.

The Activities of ESC Volunteers

One of the most significant aspects of this experience was the contribution made to the communication and dissemination of GIOSEF ITALY’s initiatives. The volunteers worked on creating digital content, managing social media, and promoting project activities, helping to raise awareness of the opportunities offered by youth mobility to a broader audience. This work allowed them to acquire skills in digital marketing and campaign management.

In addition to communication, the volunteers collaborated with various organizations in the third sector, supporting local social enterprises and organizations. Their commitment materialized in strengthening community projects, expanding the reach of existing initiatives, and helping to create new opportunities for young people in the area. By working side by side with local associations, they were able to understand the value of networking and the importance of cooperation for social change.

A fundamental part of their journey was supporting spaces and networks of assets confiscated from organized crime. Through their work, these places were transformed into centers for aggregation and social inclusion, giving new meaning to spaces that were once symbols of illegality. The volunteers’ commitment brought new activities and opportunities to the community, demonstrating how volunteering can be a driving force for concrete transformation.

Another key aspect of the project was working on public speaking and facilitation skills. The volunteers had the opportunity to conduct workshops, debates, and training sessions for diverse audiences, honing their communication abilities and experiential learning. This experience helped them improve their confidence in public speaking and develop a sense of leadership that they will carry into their personal and professional futures.

The volunteering experience was not limited to operational support for activities; it also represented a moment of creative growth. The volunteers designed and implemented activities for youth empowerment, engaging schools and community spaces with initiatives aimed at stimulating active participation among young people. This created new learning opportunities through innovative and dynamic methods.

Why Participate? The Benefits of Volunteering with GIOSEF ITALY through the ESC Program

Participating in a project like Il Paguro Ostello means acquiring real and transferable skills. Throughout their journey, the volunteers have honed their abilities in areas such as communication, event organization, and teamwork. Working in an international environment has allowed them to engage with new perspectives and enrich their cultural background. Moreover, their impact on the community has been tangible, contributing to youth empowerment and the creation of new opportunities for the local area.

Living immersed in a different culture for months has also been a personally enriching experience, filled with authentic connections and moments of sharing. The journey has been supported by ongoing mentorship from experienced professionals, ensuring that the volunteers have a structured and stimulating learning experience.

An Experience that leaves a Mark

This ESC project was not just a volunteering opportunity, but a journey of personal and collective transformation. The volunteers developed new skills, strengthened their adaptability and teamwork abilities, and left a tangible mark on the local community.

In Casapesenna, their contribution once again demonstrated how international solidarity can breathe new life into places and people, making volunteering a powerful tool for social change. Their work will continue to inspire new generations of volunteers, because change always starts with those who choose to get involved.