My ESC Experience: A Life-Changing Summer

Last summer was undoubtedly the best summer I’ve ever had. I decided to embark on an adventure and applied for the European Solidarity Corps short-term project to combine my interest for solidarity projects with my desire to discover new places.

I volunteered with the Strauss Association in the south of Italy on a project focused on social impact. The project took place in two locations: Mussomeli, a rural village in the heart of Sicily, and Cosenza, Calabria. Living in southern Italy was a magical experience, Italians were incredibly warm and welcoming to our group of volunteers. This project gave me the chance to form strong bonds not only with the local community but also with my fellow volunteers.

If I had to summarize my experience in one word, it would be community. Living in a small village meant becoming a part of local life. We volunteered directly with residents, organizing an educational summer camp in English for Italian children. Each day focused on a specific topic: mental health, sustainability, interculturality, and more. Through games and creative activities, we helped raise awareness among the children in a playful and engaging way.

In addition to the camp, we hosted workshops and events for villagers, participated in local festivals, and were often invited to community gatherings. The connection with the local people was incredibly strong and deeply moving but the bond within our team of volunteers was even stronger. Living, cooking, working, and exploring together made us feel like a family.

The second part of the project took place in Cosenza, where we volunteered with the Entropia Association. They partnered with several local organizations to organize the No Borders festival, which promoted European values such as interculturality and sustainability. Being part of this festival was an unforgettable experience. We organized a conference on eco-anxiety, spent a day cleaning a natural reserve, and held an intercultural night to share our cultures and traditions with the locals.

I left this project forever changed. It helped me grow, step out of my comfort zone, and see the world through a more open-minded perspective. The generosity of the Italians and the energy of my volunteer family had a profound impact on me. I’ll always be grateful for this incredible ESC journey.

Updated on Fredag, 20/06/2025