If you are passionate about human rights, social inclusion, and creating meaningful change in diverse communities, the Generation for Change CY (GFC CY) volunteering program in Cyprus is an excellent opportunity to make an impact. As part of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), this fully funded, long-term project welcomes motivated young individuals who want to contribute to the empowerment of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants living in Cyprus.
Running throughout 2026–2027, this program engages seven volunteers in activities related to education, integration, antiracism, community outreach, and psychosocial support. With comprehensive training, covered accommodation, a monthly stipend, and a supportive multicultural environment, this ESC experience provides both personal and professional growth while helping build a more inclusive society in the EU.
About Generation for Change CY
Generation for Change CY (GFC CY) is a grassroots, non-profit organisation based in Nicosia, Cyprus. The organisation is committed to promoting diversity, equality, and intercultural understanding, while supporting individuals from vulnerable and marginalised backgrounds, including:
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- Migrants
- People from low socioeconomic backgrounds
- Youth and families facing social exclusion
GFC CY works through education, advocacy, empowerment, and community engagement. Volunteers joining the 2026–2027 cohort will directly contribute to the organisation’s efforts to promote inclusion, human rights, and equal opportunities for all.
Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities
Volunteers work 30 hours per week across four days, giving them space for personal time, cultural exploration, and adjustment to life in Cyprus. Depending on their background, skills, and interests, volunteers may contribute to one or several of the organisation’s key program areas.
1. Language Education (Greek or English)
Volunteers support the planning, preparation, and delivery of Greek or English language classes for adult learners, most of whom are refugees or migrants seeking employment or smoother integration into Cypriot society. Tasks may include:
- Assisting teachers during lessons
- Creating learning materials
- Facilitating conversation practice
- Contributing to community-based education events
2. Employment, Digital, and Psychosocial Skills
Volunteers help organise and run activities such as:
- Digital literacy workshops
- CV writing, job search, and interview preparation sessions
- Psychosocial support activities
- Integration-focused community events
3. Gender Equality & Antiracism Initiatives
Volunteers may support GFC CY’s advocacy efforts by:
- Helping plan and deliver workshops
- Participating in content creation
- Supporting awareness-raising activities
- Engaging communities on equality, inclusion, and non-discrimination
4. Sports & Youth Engagement Activities
Sports are used as a tool for community-building and empowerment. Volunteers may:
- Organize tournaments and sports-based workshops
- Lead teamwork-focused sessions
- Support youth engagement and informal education activities
5. Material Support Program
This essential program assists vulnerable households. Volunteers help with:
- Sorting donations
- Managing distribution
- Keeping inventory
- Supporting community visits and delivery activities
6. Communications & Outreach
For volunteers interested in media and communications, tasks include:
- Social media management
- Storytelling and interviews
- Designing visibility materials
- Documenting project activities
- Outreach to diverse communities
Across all these roles, volunteers work closely with staff members, receive ongoing mentorship, and contribute to meaningful, community-driven outcomes.
Accommodation, Food, and Financial Support
This ESC opportunity is fully funded, ensuring volunteers can focus entirely on their impact and cultural experience.
What volunteers receive:
- €400 monthly stipend for personal expenses and food
- Fully covered accommodation, including utility costs (for non-Cyprus residents)
- Option for Cypriot volunteers to stay in their own housing and receive €100–€150 monthly to cover home utility and car expenses
- Travel costs reimbursed for flights or land travel to and from Cyprus
- Medical insurance coverage provided by the ESC scheme if needed
Volunteers will live in safe, shared spaces equipped with everything needed for comfortable living. Accommodation is arranged and paid for directly by the hosting organisation.
Training and Support During the Activity
Generation for Change CY ensures that every volunteer is fully prepared, supported, and professionally guided throughout their service. Training includes:
Role-specific training, depending on whether volunteers work in education, antiracism, psychosocial activities, digital skills, sports engagement, or communications
Cross-cutting training, covering:
- Safeguarding
- Intercultural communication
- Inclusive and anti-discriminatory practices
- Community engagement
- Teamwork and collaboration
Volunteers receive continuous mentorship from experienced staff members and participate in ESC On-Arrival and Mid-Term Training, organised by Cyprus’ National Agency.
This structured support ensures that volunteers develop both personal resilience and professional competencies while contributing effectively to community needs.
Participant Profile
This program is open to seven volunteers aged 18–30, residing in:
- EU member states
- Cyprus
- Countries participating in the European Solidarity Corps
Ideal candidates are:
- Interested in social justice, education, human rights, and community-based work
- Motivated to engage with culturally diverse groups
- Friendly, responsible, and empathetic
- Eager to develop professional and interpersonal skills
- Willing to learn and adapt in a multicultural environment
- Comfortable working in teams and supporting vulnerable individuals
No specific professional experience is required, though interest in one or more program areas is highly valued.
Applicants must complete the official application form to be considered:
👉 https://forms.gle/FA4soAeBSHiJxAVJ8
Volunteers are encouraged to review the detailed program overview in the info kit before applying.
Why Volunteer in Cyprus?
Cyprus offers a rich cultural experience with Mediterranean landscapes, warm weather, and vibrant local communities. Volunteers will have the opportunity to:
- Learn Greek or improve English
- Explore Cypriot tradition, cuisine, and history
- Engage with diverse migrant communities
- Take part in social events and cultural activities
- Build lifelong friendships and networks
At the same time, they will gain experience in education, social inclusion, advocacy, and community development, making this opportunity ideal for young people interested in humanitarian or social careers.
How to Apply
To apply, candidates must:
- Be aged 18–30 and eligible for ESC participation
- Complete the mandatory application form:
👉 https://forms.gle/FA4soAeBSHiJxAVJ8
- Review the info kit for full program details
- Prepare to engage in interviews or follow-up steps from Generation for Change CY
Early submissions are recommended due to high demand.
(FAQ)
1. Is this volunteering opportunity fully funded?
Yes. The ESC program covers accommodation, travel, insurance, and provides a monthly stipend.
2. Do I need to speak Greek?
No. English is sufficient, although learning basic Greek during your stay is encouraged.
3. How many volunteers will be selected?
Seven volunteers will join the 2026–2027 cohort.
4. Can Cypriot residents apply?
Yes. They can choose to stay in their own accommodation and will receive a special allowance.
5. Do volunteers need experience?
No prior experience is required. Interest, motivation, and willingness to learn are most important.
6. What is the weekly work schedule?
Volunteers work 30 hours per week, across four days.
7. What kind of support will volunteers receive?
All volunteers receive training, mentorship, ESC agency training, and ongoing supervision.
Conclusion
Volunteering with Generation for Change CY in 2026–2027 is an inspiring opportunity to create meaningful social impact while developing lifelong skills in education, inclusion, community engagement, and human rights advocacy. Fully funded and professionally supported, this ESC program invites young people to contribute to real change in Cyprus — and grow personally, culturally, and professionally along the way.