Partner
Egyesek Youth Association organizes this volunteer program together with the Masoret Avot Nursery and Primary School and the Українська асоціація "Єдність" (UA Unity Association). The main goal of the project since May 2022 is to create an educational and community centre for Ukrainian kids and families in Budapest. The jewish school cooperating closely with the EcoSpace is a safe place now for 250 children aged 6 to 18. They can find support, friends, learn and develop thanks to our devoted team of teachers who themselves had to flee from the war.
Work
The aim of the volunteering is most importantly to create and hold meaningful programmes regularly which support the children's development and studies (e.g. supporting Ukraine or English language courses or holding after-school workshop and day-care activities), meanwhile helping with the everyday duties (lunch, cleaning, tidy up the new library, etc.) in the institution. Children come from challenging backgrounds, having either never attended school or only experienced online learning, making it difficult for them to adapt and remain in school. An art and craft, a hip-hop dance afternoon club, sport opportunities are just some of the possible classes that would improve their knowledge and spirit.
Participants
We are looking for motivated volunteers, who have a sense of empathy, patience and also experience to teach small kids and naughty teenegers. Who are good at (nonverbal) communication and get well with children from different age groups. This workcamp is especially suitable for volunteers who have an experience or are interested in working with children and refugees.
Accommodation and food
The project is co-funded by the European Union through the European Solidarity Corps program. There is no participation fee. All volunteers will be accommodated in shared rooms in Budapest in a dormitory or hostel. Lunch will be provided in the institution (vegan and vegetarian may not available), breakfast and dinner is self-organized, but covered by the project cost. Each volunteer will also receive €7 per day as pocket money. Travel costs to the project location will be reimbursed based on the distance after participation. All necessary equipment for the tasks will be provided.
Location and leisure
Not only will you create unforgettable memories at the camp, but you’ll also have the chance to explore Hungary’s stunning capital in your free time! The evenings and the second weekend will be free, so you can wander the streets of Budapest, admire its historical buildings, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural life, or even try the famous Hungarian cuisine. As part of an international team, you’ll not only make the children’s summer memorable but your own as well!
Training during the activity
Before the arrival we will ask participants to complete a self-study course (child safeguarding). On the first Sunday a one day orientation training (movement, sports and games and facilitation skills) will be provided by an experienced Egyesek staff member. This will be followed by mentoring sessions to support the learning and professional development of you. In the institution school staff will provide further support if required.
Additional comments
We warn the volunteers that the consumption of alcohol and smoking is strictly forbidden inside the school. It is an advantage if the volunteers have knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian language. Besides, it is necessary to have basic knowledge about a group's animation (songs, music, dance, plays…) and to be able to assume responsibility within a group. Being able to listen to others is very important there. This kind of workcamp is a very rich personal and human experience. It makes you aware of the complexity of certain social conditions related to the great inequalities on our planet. In order to demonstrate this, we ask the candidate volunteers to fill out our application form.
Directions to meeting point
On May 24th at 6 PM, we will wait for you at the airport bus stop (100E and 200E) in Deák Square.
