European Solıdarity Corps (ESC) is a Programme funded by European Commission which allows youngsters aged (18–30 years) to become a volunteer in another country for a specified period of time, usually between 2–12 months. In duly justified cases, volunteers who carried out an Erasmus+ volunteering project, a European Voluntary Service(EVS) or European Solidarity Corps (ESC) individual volunteering activity lasting up to 2 months, can take part in an aditional European Solidarity Corps individual volunteering activity, cross border. The total amount of time must not exceed 14months.

 

Definition of volunteering: According to the European Youth Forum an activity can only be defined as volunteering if it is:

  • Undertaken of a person’s own free will and involves the commitment of time and energy to actions that benefit others and society as a whole;
  • Unpaid (although it can involve reimbursement of expenses directly related to the activity) for a non-profit cause, primarily undertaken within a nongovernmental organisation, and thus clearly isn't motivated by material or financial gain; 
  • Not used to substitute or replace paid employment.  



     


 

In short, what is an ESC?

The European Solidarity Corps is the new European Union initiative which creates opportunities for young people to volunteer or work in projects in their own country or abroad that benefit communities and people around Europe. The European Solidarity Corps brings together young people to build a more inclusive society, supporting vulnerable people and responding to societal challenges. It offers an inspiring and empowering experience for young people who want to help, learn and develop! 

Mission and Principles of ESC: CLICK HERE

INFO KIT FOR PARTICIPANTS

Types of activities offered by ESC are as follows;

- Individual Volunteering (short and long term)
- Volunteering teams (cross borders and which are usually short terms)
- Solidarity Projects (at National level and is usually implemented by a minimum of 5 youngsters)



 

An ESC volunteering  includes the following phases:

  • Registration on the ESC Portal. Each youngster who would like to take part in any of the opportunities of ESC, must create an account and obtain Reference Number. If you dont have an account yet, REGISTER HERE
     
  • Search for open projects on the Portal
     
  • Apply through the Portal by attaching your CV and a Motivation Letter. How to write Motivation Letter for ESC projects CLICK HERE
     
  • The organization in charge of the project you have applied for, should revise and accept your application and add your profile to their project
     
  • Finding a Supporting Organization in your country(in case that your hosting organization does not have a conrete partner for the project)
     
  • Receive the Activity Agreement. All parties. Support organization, volunteer and hosting organization, must sign the Agreement
     
  • Obtaining health insurance starts with the email sent by HENNER after approval of your application by your Receiving Organization filled out on EUROPEAN YOUTH PORTAL(https://youth.europa.eu/solidarity_en). To check HENNER Coverage during your volunteering CLICK HERE
  • Receive Visa Invitation letter from your Hosting Organization and visa support letter from your Support Organization.(if applicable)
     
  • Apply and obtain your Visa (if applicable)
     
  • Pre- departure meeting
     
  • Departure, start and taking part in your ESC experience
     
  • Follow up activities upon return.

 

Young people can register on the European Solidarity Program Portal and search for opportunities here:
https://www.ua.gov.tr/programlar/gruplar/gencler-genclik-calisanlari-icin/gonulluluk/

 

PRN GUIDE

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