European Solidarity Corps (ESC)

The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is a new European Union initiative that aims to address societal needs by creating opportunities for young people to volunteer, work, or network in projects that benefit communities either in their own country or abroad, while promoting their personal, educational, social, civic, and professional development.

Its goal is to bring young people together to build a more inclusive society, support vulnerable people, and respond to societal challenges. The program offers an inspiring and empowering experience for young people who want to help, learn, and develop themselves.

The program adds value to existing EU funding programs and the volunteering program formerly known as the European Voluntary Service, which was part of Erasmus+.

The European Solidarity Corps was established by Regulation (EU) 2018/1475 of the European Parliament and of the Council.

Turkey’s participation in the European Solidarity Corps is limited to volunteering activities, solidarity projects, and networking activities, in accordance with Article 11(1)(b)(i) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1475.

HOW DOES THE EUROPEAN SOLIDARITY CORPS WORK?

Young people between the ages of 17 and 30 can register on the European Solidarity Corps Portal. Participants aged 18 and over may receive invitations to join solidarity-related projects from organizations with access to the database. Additionally, these organizations can post project announcements on the portal to receive direct responses from young people.

BENEFITS

Within the scope of the European Solidarity Corps:

1. You will contribute as a volunteer and help communities in need. Since this is a voluntary and unpaid commitment, you will not receive a salary. However, your travel, accommodation, food, and insurance expenses will be covered, and you will also receive a specific amount of pocket money.

2. This is a learning experience that will boost your personal and professional development. You will have the opportunity to receive training before, during, and after your volunteering experience. A mentor will help you set clear goals and show you how to achieve them. You will also have the chance to develop your language and intercultural skills, learn to live independently, overcome challenges, and work effectively within a team.

3. Living and exploring another country, learning about different cultures, and making new friends will be an inevitable part of your volunteering experience.

4. Through your volunteering experience, you will have the opportunity to bring new ideas and a multicultural spirit to the organizations and local communities where you volunteer.

5. By participating in the European Solidarity Corps, you will become part of a community. Upon your return, you can stay connected with a broader network of former volunteers, share your experiences, communicate with other young individuals in your country, and inspire them.

6. At the end of the project in which you participated as a volunteer, you will receive a certificate documenting your participation.