Build Connections that Change the World
The Blessed J. Matulaitis social center
Vilnius, Lithuania
Description
This project offers a unique experience of community and connection by supporting people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Volunteers become part of a warm, inclusive environment where they assist in daily tasks like cooking, shopping, and creative workshops. They share meaningful moments—accompanying participants to city events, theatre, basketball games, or cafés. Each day ends with shared reflection alongside staff. Volunteers are companions, leaders, and equal members of the community. Your ideas and energy matter—activities will be adapted to your strengths, and every initiative is encouraged to help grow this shared space of support, joy, and solidarity. Here, you won’t just volunteer—you’ll build real relationships, discover new perspectives, and become part of something bigger than yourself.
Accommodation, food and transport arrangements
The project covers your travel expenses from your home country to Lithuania and back, with reimbursement depending on the distance. You will stay in a comfortable shared apartment with other volunteers, each having a private room while sharing common spaces like the kitchen and bathroom. This setup encourages a welcoming and supportive community atmosphere. All utilities are covered by the organization. Volunteers also receive a monthly food allowance, pocket money, and a local transportation pass to help you get around the city easily and comfortably.
Training during the activity
Volunteers take part in several trainings to support their journey. Before departure, a preparatory session is held by the sending organization. Soon after arrival, the Lithuanian National Youth Agency offers on-arrival training. Midway through the project, a mid-term seminar brings volunteers together to reflect, share experiences, and recharge. Depending on the home country, some volunteers join training after returning home. Throughout, a tutor supports daily activities and a mentor helps reflect on the international ESC experience.
Participant profile
We don’t expect you to have previous experience in this field or a specific educational background. High-level English skills are not required either—though it’s a plus if you do! What we really ask for is motivation and the ability to clearly explain why you want to join. You should be ready to stay in Lithuania for the entire duration of the project, be between 18 and 30 years old, and not have participated in a long-term EVS or ESC volunteering project before. Most importantly, we’re looking for open-minded, communicative people who are eager to build connections and embrace new cultural and language challenges.
Activity dates
From 01/10/2025 to 14/08/2026
Activity location
The Blessed J. Matulaitis social center, Vilnius, Lithuania
Activity type
Individual volunteering
Looking for participants from
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden
Activity topics
Social challenges
Environment and natural protection
Creativity and culture
Deadline for applications
Application deadline: 30/09/2025 16:30