A new kind of learning experience for young people ...

Firstly, voluntary service is an effective way of providing complementary alternative educational and training opportunities to young people. This is particularly true in a European context. Participation in an EVS project allows young people to broaden their horizons, to familiarise themselves with a different social and cultural environment, and to develop self-confidence. They will be able to put their energy, enthusiasm and creativity to good use by participating in practical activities which they themselves have a say in defining. They will learn about taking responsibility and working in a team.

Moreover, young European volunteers will gain independence from their stay abroad which should help them in their transition to active adult life. The value of this experience should be broadly recognised.

... and a helping hand for local development.

The second basic concept that lies behind EVS is the contribution which young volunteers can make to local development. Projects with strong local roots provide the best opportunity to integrate volunteers into the host community. This will increase the educational value of the experience for young people. It will also help to ensure that the activities carried out by the volunteers have a tangible impact at local level. EVS therefore represents an important opportunity for local projects.

With this in mind, there is a great deal of scope for imagination and innovation depending on the needs and ideas which present themselves at local level. A broad range of non profit making activities in the social, cultural, environmental and other fields may be offered to young European volunteers. These activities should add a new dimension to existing projects or help to create new ones.

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