Supporting community work
Laura, SpainVolunteering matters because it connects us with realities we might never have known, with stories that move us deeply and with people who, unexpectedly, become part of our lives. I still remember how, in my first experiences, I felt that something in me was changing simply by being there, accompanying others and allowing myself to be accompanied.
Laura, originally from Italy, volunteered in Spain in 2021 for 10 months. She joined 'Coordinadora Infantil y Juvenil de Tiempo Libre de Vallecas' where she helped with community work through activities for children, adolescents, young people and families.
🎤 What has been the most memorable or impactful moment from your volunteering experience — something you will never forget?
"The most memorable moment of my volunteer work was undoubtedly my first day at Citycentro (the association where I worked). Although I had been involved in volunteer work since I was very young, both locally and internationally, and had already lived abroad during secondary school and university, nothing prepared me for the emotional intensity of that first day.
I remember perfectly how, when I arrived at the association, the children approached me quite naturally to tell me little stories about their lives. I was surprised by how easily they opened the door to their world and how, without knowing me, they gave me affection, trust and a sincere smile. At that moment, I understood that I would be sharing the next ten months with them and I felt something very deep: a warmth in my heart, a feeling of being cared for, of belonging."
🎤 How has volunteering contributed to your personal growth, professional development, or overall outlook on life?
"Volunteering marked a turning point in my life. I started volunteering after completing my master's degree, at a time of uncertainty when I still didn't know what direction I wanted to take in my career. When my volunteering came to an end, I had the opportunity to join the same association where I had been volunteering as an educator. That step confirmed that I had found a path that made me feel useful and motivated.
Shortly afterwards, I started working at Europa Joven Madrid as a youth advisor (and now as a coordinator), which has allowed me to continue supporting other young people and promoting opportunities that, like me, can transform their lives. Thanks to volunteering, I have developed professional skills and gained the conviction that experiences lived with love, dedication and community can open doors we never imagined."
🎤 Why do you believe volunteering is important?
"I firmly believe that volunteering is important because it has the power to transform lives, starting with those who decide to take the first step. In my case, it came at a time of personal and professional searching, when I still didn't know where I wanted to go. And yet it opened up a path for me that I could never have imagined.
Through volunteering (not only at European Solidarity Corps, but all the experiences I have had and continue to have), I discovered that when we dedicate our time, listening and presence to other people, we also give ourselves a more conscious, sensitive and humane version of ourselves. Volunteering matters because it connects us with realities we might never have known, with stories that move us deeply and with people who, unexpectedly, become part of our lives. I still remember how, in my first experiences, I felt that something in me was changing simply by being there, accompanying others and allowing myself to be accompanied."
Updated on Lunes, 13/04/2026