Every year, from around March to October, we welcome a group of European Solidarity Corps (ESC) volunteers to the GEN Europe office in Arterra Bizimodu community, Navarra, to support us in our different areas of work and build their skills while living in an ecovillage.
What is ESC?
The European Solidarity Corps is the new European Union initiative that creates opportunities for young people to volunteer or work in projects in their own country or abroad that benefit communities and people around Europe. It provides an opportunity to join meaningful work and experiential learning while your food, accommodation, travelling, pocket money, insurance, and mentorship are provided. A person can only do one short-term (less than 59 days) and one long-term ESC. You can register for the European Solidarity Corps when you are 17 years old, but you cannot start a project until you are over 18. European Solidarity Corps projects are available to people up to the age of 30 years old, you cannot start a project after your 31st birthday.
Who is it for?
Young people in the age range of 18-30, who have not participated in an EVS or ESC project before. We are looking for motivated candidates with a pro-active, creative, and problem-solving attitude, with a wish to learn about GEN Europe and ecovillage living.
What will I do?
Like the staff members of our small team, volunteers are expected to pitch in with a variety of tasks as they arise, whether it’s logistics for an event, or administration and other tasks. The participants will work as part of the international team formed of GEN Europe volunteers and staff. Supervisors will help the volunteers define and work towards their personal development objectives. You can apply for different positions, or make a proposal on another topic you would like to suggest as a position. Roles change from year to year, but we usually have roles available in projects, communications, graphic design, IT and events management.
Where is it hosted?
The Ecovillage that will host the volunteers is Arterra Bizimodu. The living conditions will be simple with the focus on a low ecological footprint. You may expect shared housing and common facilities, a natural rural environment, and diverse social activities. You can get a taste of Arterra in this video!
How do I apply?
Each winter (usually around December/January) we publish a call for volunteers for the coming year, with a detailed description of the roles available and an application form. Keep an eye on our social media and newsletter! We cannot usually accept volunteers outside of the March-November time frame. However, if you wish your details to be kept on file for the next call, you are welcome to contact us on applications (at) gen-europe.org with your CV, specifying where you feel you would fit in the organisation, and we may be in touch.
Current roles available
Are you passionate about IT and want to use your skills in service of a regenerative world? Are you a skilled video-maker? Contact us with your curriculum and letting us know a bit more about you and your current availability and we’ll be in touch!
I don’t meet the criteria, how else can I volunteer?
While this is an opportunity for youth under 30, there are other ways to volunteer in ecovillages! Check out our article here for more ideas.
