European Voluntary Service

EVS is a long-term programme that allows young people to spend up to twelve months volunteering for a non-profit organisation in another country in Europe, or even further afield. The programme is fully supported in terms of training and, importantly, finance and is open to young people aged 18-30.

The programme allows volunteers not only to take part in a unique and exciting opportunity - living and working in another country - but also the chance to gain life-changing skills and work experience.

There are a wide range of projects from cultural, environmental and social. Volunteers choose projects from a database of over 1000 projects ranging from tracking wolves in Slovak mountains, helping run a community radio in Germany to working with immigrants in Barcelona. Since 2007 there now also exists the opportunity to take part in the EVS programme outside Europe.

Generally it takes around six months to secure the funding. All costs are covered by the Youth in Action Programme.

» To search the EVS projects list click .

Volunteers receive:

• Free accommodation (usually in a shared flat)
• Travel Costs
• Food and Pocket Money Allowance
• Language support before and during the project
• Training: Pre-departure, On arrival, Mid-term evaluation
• Comprehensive Medical, Optical and Dental Insurance