How the European Solidarity Corps is empowering young people with disabilities

Atnaujinta Penktadienis, 28/06/2024

There is plenty to gain by participating in the European Solidarity Corps. Whether you are taking part in solidarity projects or volunteering, you can be sure of an enriching experience. Check out the real-life story of Sharida to see how the European Solidarity Corps can help you make a difference in your community.

Discovering the European Solidarity Corps through a solidarity project

Sharida Imamdi, from the Netherlands, joined the European Solidarity Corps after discovering it through the Netherlands Youth Institute (NJI), the Dutch national agency of the European Solidarity Corps. Driven by her passion to help people in her local community, Sharida decided to carry out a solidarity project. This decision led her to the Stichting READY Foundation, where she is currently a board member. This inclusive organisation encourages young people to make a positive impact in society. 

In 2021, Sharida organised a Wheelchair Basketball clinic, funded by the European Solidarity Corps, where 25 children tried their hand at wheelchair basketball for the very first time. Thanks to Sharida’s commitment and organisation skills, the clinic was a major hit. The children arrived with enthusiasm and enjoyed a fantastic day of competition and fun, as one participant trying it for the first time mentions: ‘It's different from regular basketball, but actually just as much fun.’

Sharida says that the aim of the Wheelchair Basketball clinic was to ‘give children with disabilities a fun experience and to make them aware that they can do more than they think.’ One of the standout features of this project is that it is entirely run by young people themselves: ‘We devised and implemented this project,’ she explains. ‘We met weekly to develop our project ideas and were supported by the Stichting READY Foundation.’

After this successful experience, Sharida continued her involvement in the Foundation, by guiding young people in writing and submitting their application for other European Solidarity Corps projects.

New experiences of participating in the project

Reflecting on her journey, Sharida highlights how being involved with the European Solidarity Corps has opened her eyes to new experiences: ‘I had the opportunity to experience a different way of working, which helped a lot when organising the Wheelchair Basketball clinic’.

Sharida was also impressed with the European Solidarity Corps’ dedication to help children and young people with disabilities participate in projects. ‘I learned that a lot is done for young people through European Solidarity Corps projects,’ says Sharida. ‘The Corps is committed to make a difference to their lives through different activities. Here, sport was a great way to bring children together.’

A message to future participants

Sharida encourages others who are keen to carry out solidarity projects to do the same. In particular, she highlights the range of projects to offer within the European Solidarity Corps: ‘You can submit your own project requests via the European Solidarity Corps, set up collaborations and gain more experience.’

Join the European Solidarity Corps and start your journey today!

With support from the European Solidarity Corps, Sharida successfully carried out a project in her community and gave children with disabilities the confidence to try new things and discover new talents. 

Interested in joining? The European Solidarity Corps is open to all young people aged 18 to 30 regardless of your background and circumstances. You will have the chance to meet new people, develop new skills and make a real difference to young people in your community with the projects you implement.

Visit the European Solidarity Corps website today to learn more about the opportunities available to you.