What is EVS
The aim of the European Voluntary Service (EVS) is to develop solidarity and promote active citizenship and mutual understanding among young people.
The European Voluntary Service enables young people to carry out voluntary service for up to 12 months in a country other than their country of residence. It fosters solidarity among young people and is a true "learning service". Beyond benefiting local communities, volunteers learn new skills and languages, and discover other cultures. Non-formal learning principles and practice are reflected throughout the project.
An EVS project has three phases:
-
planning and preparation
-
implementation
-
evaluation (including reflection on a possible follow-up).
An EVS project can focus on a variety of themes and areas, such as culture, youth, sports, social care, cultural heritage, arts, civil protection, environment, development cooperation, etc. High-risk interventions in immediate post-crisis situations (e.g. humanitarian aid, immediate disaster relief, etc.) are excluded.
How long?
-
Services carried out by a group of at least 10 volunteers: the Service lasts a minimum of 2 weeks and a maximum of 12 months.
-
Services of young people with fewer opportunities: the Service lasts a minimum of 2 weeks and a maximum of 12 months.
-
Any other service: a minimum of 2 months and a maximum of 12 months.
Who can participate?
-
Young people aged between 17 and 3
-
Legally resident in the country of the Sending Organisation
A volunteer can take part in only one EVS project. Exception: volunteers who have carried out an EVS lasting less than 2 months can take part in an additional EVS project provided that the total duration of the combined periods of Service does not exceed 12 months.
What kind of costs are covered?
-
Accommodation and food
-
Pocket money (the amount depends on the hosting country)
-
CIGNA insurance
-
travel costs (based on the flat rate)
-
visa costs (if needed)
-
special costs - like vaccination (if needed).
What EVS is not
-
occasional, unstructured, part-time volunteering
-
an internship in an enterprise
-
a paid job; it must not replace paid jobs
-
a recreation or tourist activity
-
a language course
-
exploitation of a cheap workforce
-
a period of study or vocational training abroad.