Football as a tool for social inclusion at Union Plaani
Union Plaani ry
Heinola, Finland
Description
🔵 1. Project Summary Union Plaani is a grassroots football club in Heinola that believes football should be for everyone. This ESC volunteering project invites young people from across Europe to join our community and support our mission: making football a tool for social inclusion, participation, and empowerment. The project will immerse volunteers in the everyday life of the club — from training youth teams and organizing tournaments to supporting community football initiatives, local school outreach, and inclusive events for marginalized groups. By combining football, volunteering, and intercultural learning, we aim to build stronger community ties and promote European solidarity through sport. 🟡 2. Main Objectives • Use football as a tool to promote social inclusion, especially for youth with fewer opportunities. • Strengthen the role of ESC volunteers in everyday football club activities. • Foster intercultural learning and local–European exchange.
Accommodation, food and transport arrangements
Volunteers will live in shared accommodation in Heinola with private rooms and shared kitchen/bathroom. The apartment is fully equipped and located near Union Plaani’s activities. Volunteers receive a monthly food allowance 200€ and pocket money 7€/day according to ESC rates. Bicycles are provided for daily transport; winter support or bus cards are arranged as needed. Travel costs to and from Finland are reimbursed based on ESC distance rules.
Training during the activity
Volunteers receive on-arrival orientation, Finnish language support, and regular mentoring. They are trained in grassroots coaching, event planning, and working with youth through non-formal methods. Weekly reflection meetings help track learning. Volunteers also participate in ESC-organized on-arrival and mid-term training in Finland. Personal development is supported through Youthpass and individual learning plans.
Participant profile
We welcome two motivated young people (18–30) who are open-minded, responsible, and interested in community work through football. No specific skills or playing level required. Interest in youth work, sports, teamwork, or inclusion is a plus. Volunteers should be ready to live in a small town and take initiative. Basic English is needed .
Activity dates
From 01/10/2025 to 21/12/2025
Activity location
Keinukankaantie 4, Heinola, Finland
Activity type
Individual volunteering
Looking for participants from
Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain
Activity topics
Health and wellbeing
Physical education and sport
Deadline for applications
Application deadline: 31/08/2025 23:59
Project code
2025-1-FI01-ESC51-VTJ-000347439