Supporting integration of immigrants in a local community
Stanislavs, LatviaVolunteering was a life-changing experience that opened doors I didn’t even know existed. I discovered not only
volunteering, but also non-formal education, and this completely transformed my understanding of learning,
community, and human connection. I finally realised what had been missing in my educational path — creativity,
Stanislavs volunteered in 2004 for 7 months in Milan, Italy. He joined 'Centesimus Annus' supporting legal working immigrants by organising their free‑time activities, informing them about local resources (free Italian language courses, cultural events, thematic centers etc), fostering intercultural events in dormitory (where they spend most of the time out of work) and promoting recycling and sustainable way of life.
🎤 What has been the most memorable or impactful moment from your volunteering experience — something you will never forget?
"The most memorable moment from my European volunteering experience was definitely the pre-departure training for volunteers. At first, I didn’t want to go at all — I was expecting it to be a very boring three days full of lectures and long lessons. But it turned out to be the complete opposite.
After the very first day of teambuilding and energizing activities, I realized that I was finally learning in the best way I could imagine. I also discovered that there are people who facilitate this kind of learning process, and I remember thinking, “This must be a dream job.”
On the second day, I even caught myself thinking that I could improve some activities and maybe even do them better than our trainers. By the third day, I was completely sure: I wanted to become a non-formal education trainer myself and deliver the same kind of life-changing experiences to others. And eventually — I have been doing it for more than 15 years already!"
🎤 How has volunteering contributed to your personal growth, professional development, or overall outlook on life?
"Volunteering has had a profound impact on my personal and professional development, shaping the way I see myself and the world around me. It was a life-changing experience that opened doors I didn’t even know existed. Through my involvement, I discovered not only volunteering, but also non-formal education, and this completely transformed my understanding of learning, community, and human connection. I finally realized what had been missing in my educational path — creativity, freedom of choice, and opportunities for self-directed learning — and through volunteering and non-formal education, I was able to find all of it."
🎤 What is your birthday wish for the 30th anniversary of EU supported volunteering — and for the next 30 years to come?
"My birthday wishes for the 30th anniversary of EU-supported volunteering is that more young people will see volunteering as a normal part of everyday life, something anyone can do. I also hope fewer young people will see volunteering as a privilege only for some.
For the next 30 years, I wish volunteering becomes a simple, natural way for people to participate, support each other, and help build a more inclusive society!"
Updated on Petek, 17/04/2026