Volunteering in Denmark has long attracted young people seeking meaningful experiences in nature, outdoor education, and international community work. The Houens Odde International Scout Centre 2026/27 Fully Funded Program offers one of the most unique and enriching opportunities under the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). This program brings together volunteers from Denmark, Europe, and beyond to contribute to daily operations, outdoor activities, event preparation, and community engagement at one of the largest scout centers in Northern Europe.
Located on a stunning wooded peninsula surrounded by water and forest, Houens Odde Scout Centre is more than a campsite—it is a lively international hub where companies, schools, municipalities, NGOs, and hundreds of scouts gather for activities throughout the year. As a volunteer, you will be fully immersed in outdoor life, teamwork, and hands-on learning, all while benefiting from comprehensive support and full funding.
About Houens Odde International Scout Centre
The centre is owned by the YMCA Scouts in Denmark and managed by a diverse team of permanent staff and both Danish and international volunteers. It also collaborates with approximately 120 Danish voluntary scouts, known as the Houmen, who support events and activities throughout the year.
Guests include:
- Schools and educational groups
- Companies and private organizations
- Municipal authorities
- Local Danish scouts
- International scout visitors
- NGOs and community groups
This multicultural environment makes Houens Odde a rewarding place for anyone who wants to learn new skills, help run outdoor events, and contribute to a welcoming global community.
Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities
The volunteer work is mainly practical and outdoors, but accessible for anyone with motivation and curiosity. You do not need previous experience or technical skills; the team provides all necessary training.
Main responsibilities include:
- Supporting the daily running of the Scout Centre
- Maintaining outdoor areas and activity spaces
- Helping in the canteen kitchen
- Serving as a teambuilding activity instructor for visiting groups
- Assisting local staff during events, workshops, and scout camps
- Participating as staff in summer and seasonal camps
- Working on a personal project focused on green policies, environmental sustainability, inclusion, or diversity
The tasks can change depending on the season, event schedules, and the needs of the centre. One day you may be preparing equipment for a scout workshop, and another day you may be helping maintain the grounds, guiding activities, or preparing meals for guests. This flexibility makes the experience dynamic, diverse, and ideal for volunteers who enjoy variety and adventure.
Accommodation, Food & Transport: Fully Funded
Volunteers live directly at the centre in a shared apartment designed for international living. The apartment includes rooms for six volunteers, each with a private bedroom and shared:
- Kitchen
- Living room
- Bathroom facilities
- Washing machine
- Common spaces
The living arrangement includes:
- 4 ESC volunteers
- 2 Danish volunteers
- 1 non-European volunteer
This multicultural atmosphere adds to the learning experience and helps volunteers build international friendships.
What is funded?
The centre covers:
- Rent for the apartment
- Daily meals and food costs
- Access to two shared volunteer cars for work and leisure
- Use of buses (with limited schedules since the centre is in the countryside)
The rural environment is part of the program’s charm. Volunteers should enjoy peaceful surroundings, nature, and outdoor living.
Training and Support Throughout the Program
Training is a key component of this ESC experience. The centre provides hands-on learning and structured support from the moment volunteers arrive.
Training includes:
- Volunteer Upstart Sessions during the first month
- Practical training for all tasks, from outdoor work to team-activity instruction
- A 5-week mid-session period halfway through the project for deeper learning and project development
- Participation in on-arrival and mid-term training organized by Denmark’s National Agency
- Opportunities to use centre resources during free time, including:
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Hiking trails
- Outdoor activity equipment
Volunteers can also work on personal projects related to environmental sustainability, green policies, or inclusion—allowing them to leave a long-term impact on the centre’s development.
Participant Profile: Who Can Apply?
The Houens Odde program welcomes young volunteers aged 18 to 26 who are excited about outdoor life, intercultural teamwork, and practical tasks. No previous scouting experience is required.
Ideal applicants:
- Enjoy nature, forests, and being near water
- Are open to rural living and slower countryside environments
- Are physically active or motivated to learn outdoor skills
- Are social, friendly, and curious about international housemates
- Are adaptable and comfortable with flexible schedules
- Have basic English communication skills
- Appreciate teamwork and cultural diversity
Apply Here
A driver’s license is considered an advantage because the center is large, and some tasks require driving a car or even a tractor.
The centre values inclusivity and can accommodate volunteers with special needs that may require structured routines or adapted schedules.
Why Choose Volunteering in Denmark in 2026/27?
The Houens Odde ESC program offers a unique blend of nature, teamwork, practical learning, and personal growth.
Benefits include:
- Full funding under the European Solidarity Corps
- Living on a beautiful outdoor peninsula
- Daily international teamwork experience
- Skill development in leadership, event management, and outdoor activities
- Opportunities to join scout camps as staff
- A safe, supportive environment with consistent mentorship
- Long-term personal and professional development
Volunteers leave with new confidence, strong friendships, and valuable experience that can support future careers in education, outdoor leadership, social work, project management, environmental studies, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need to be a scout to volunteer at Houens Odde?
No. Anyone aged 18–26 with an interest in outdoor life and teamwork can apply.
2. Is the program fully funded?
Yes. Accommodation, food, training, and transportation for work activities are fully covered.
3. What skills do I need?
No previous experience is required. All training is provided on-site.
4. Do volunteers get their own room?
Yes. Each volunteer has a private bedroom in a shared apartment.
5. Is the centre isolated?
It is located in the countryside. Volunteers should enjoy peaceful natural surroundings.
6. Is English required?
Basic English is needed to communicate with staff and fellow volunteers.
7. How long is the program?
The ESC volunteering period typically lasts between 10 and 12 months.