Voluntary Service in social work (residential group)
VSD Verbund sozialer Dienste gGmbH
Verbund sozialer Dienste gGmbH
Bad Essen, Germany
Description
Verbund Sozialer Dienste (VSD) operates in the field of child and youth welfare in the area surrounding Bad Essen, near Osnabrück. Its subsidiary, Dialog, manages decentralized in-patient residential groups within the German child and youth service system. These groups are housed in attractive buildings where children live in small, family-like settings. With nearly 50 years of experience, Dialog has developed expertise in providing therapy for attachment disorders and addressing the effects of trauma. By participating in the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) program, we aim to offer children and young people valuable insights into different cultures. Volunteers contribute by sharing aspects of their own cultural backgrounds, fostering openness and understanding of other cultures and ethnic groups. This cultural exchange adds variety to daily life and promotes tolerance within the community.
Accommodation, food and transport arrangements
We prioritize the well-being of our volunteers and offer comprehensive support and guidance before, during, and after the project. Ensuring you feel comfortable and valued is important to us, which is why we have established a well-structured support system. We respect individual dietary preferences, carefully consider food intolerances, and take proactive steps to meet your needs. Meals are provided at the workplace, and the full meal allowance will be paid in full. Transportation costs will be reimbursed upon submission of proof of purchase.
Training during the activity
To further enhance the experience, we also offer opportunities for personal and professional development, including workshops, skill-building sessions, and guidance on navigating the local culture and administrative systems. Volunteers can participate in networking events to connect with local organizations and other volunteers, fostering collaboration and exchange. Additionally, we provide ongoing feedback and support to ensure that volunteers not only succeed in their roles but also gain valuable insights and skills for their future endeavors.
Participant profile
The participants should be socially engaged and open to new experiences, with a genuine willingness to work with disadvantaged children. Prior knowledge in social work or psychology is an advantage. Ideally, volunteers should be able to remain composed in crisis situations. It is expected that volunteers approach training and learning opportunities provided by the hosting organization to handle crises with an open mindset, while maintaining a strong commitment to staying connected with the children. Additionally, volunteers are encouraged to share aspects of their own culture with the children, fostering cultural exchange.
Activity dates
A total of 24 week(s) during the period 15/07/2025 to 31/12/2025
Activity location
Burgstraße 3/5, Bad Essen, Germany
Activity type
Individual volunteering
Looking for participants from
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden
Activity topics
Social challenges
Education and training
Creativity and culture
Deadline for applications
No application deadline