Empowering European Youth Through Volunteering in Kielce
Over two impactful days in Kielce, Poland, our team brought together leaders, changemakers, and young people from across Europe to explore how volunteering can unlock opportunities for youth who are not in education, employment, or training (NEETs).
With a focus on practical solutions, real stories, and tangible impact, this third study visit showcased the transformative power of volunteering to foster both personal and professional growth.
Day 1: Inspiring Action and Dialogue
The visit kicked off with a keynote speech from the Mayor of Kielce, Agata Wojda, followed by an insightful keynote by Vice Mayor Bartłomiej Zapała, who shared Poland’s significant role within the Council of the EU. The day’s discussions centred around how volunteering can be a bridge to help NEETs transition into the workforce, with a roundtable session.
This session brought together representatives from volunteer centers, national institutes and European associations, providing a platform to discuss the important of “word-to-mouth” communication in spreading mobility opportunities, the need to support young people in their professional integration after their experience, and the existing structures in each partner country tailored to the specific situations of young individuals.
Day 2: Hands-On Learning and Local Impact
The second day of the study visit was dedicated to exploring the practical side of volunteering. Participants visited three key organisations in Kielce, each of which is driving social change through grassroots volunteer efforts:
- Regional Volunteer Centre - A vibrant hub for volunteerism, where local initiatives connect people and make a measurable impact.
- Caritas Kielce - A support organisation that delivers essential services and programs to vulnerable communities.
- Foundation Polish Red Cross - A critical player in humanitarian aid and social inclusion across Poland.
These visits provided participants with invaluable insights into how volunteer-led organizations are shaping the future of their communities, giving them concrete examples of how to replicate these efforts in their regions.
A Shared Vision for Empowering Young People
Our team’s visit to Kielce marked a significant step forward in empowering young people across Europe through volunteering. By fostering collaboration, learning from local leaders, and showcasing successful initiatives, we are creating lasting pathways for youth engagement and social inclusion.
Stay connected with us for further updates and insights on how volunteering can foster youth’s personal and professional development.
About YES Volunteer: YESVolunteer is a European project designed to empower young people (aged 18-30) through enriched civic engagement and volunteer opportunities. It seeks to address barriers to youth professionalisation and inclusion by improving policy tools, facilitating cross-regional cooperation, and adapting best practices to meet diverse local needs. YESVolunteer is focused on fostering equitable opportunities for rural youth and providing pathways for underrepresented groups, such as NEETs and YWFO, to gain professional skills and contribute positively to their communities.