Volunteering in Ireland has become one of the most impactful ways for young people across Europe and beyond to contribute to meaningful community change. The Connect & Thrive: Youth for Inclusion and Empowerment 2026 program is a fully funded European Solidarity Corps (ESC) initiative designed to promote diversity, inclusion, digital skills, and youth participation in Ireland. Hosted in Mallow, County Cork, this one-year project offers participants a life-changing opportunity to develop new skills, support vulnerable communities, and contribute to integration efforts in line with the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027.
Whether you are passionate about youthwork, intercultural dialogue, digital learning, or social inclusion, this program opens the door to professional growth, community involvement, and international experience—all under full financial support from the European Union.
What Is Connect & Thrive?
The Connect & Thrive: Youth for Inclusion and Empowerment program invites young volunteers to help create a welcoming, inclusive environment for local youth and diverse community groups. Over twelve months, ESC participants will co-lead and support a wide range of activities aimed at promoting integration, equal opportunities, and empowerment.
Key volunteer roles include:
- Co-leading English language classes for young migrants and newcomers
- Facilitating digital literacy workshops, including safe online practices
- Running intercultural youth clubs to promote communication and exchange
- Planning inclusion campaigns and diversity fairs
- Supporting community assessments and YouthPass competence evaluations
- Documenting workshops, preparing materials, and assisting in project planning
- Promoting youth engagement in accordance with ESC principles
This program is ideal for young people who want to make a positive impact while developing real-world experience in youthwork, education, and community-building.
Accommodation, Food & Transport: Fully Covered
One of the program’s strongest benefits is that it is completely funded through the European Solidarity Corps.
Your accommodation:
Participants will live together in a 3-bedroom shared apartment located at
11 Fair St, Mallow, Cork, P51 CTF8, Ireland.
The home is fully equipped for shared living and is located close to community centers, shops, and public services.
What is funded?
Thanks to the European Union through Léargas under the ESC 2021–2027 framework (Grant No. 2024-2-IE01-ESC51-VTJ-000288456), volunteers receive:
- Free accommodation
- Monthly food allowance
- Local transport support
- Pocket money
- Insurance coverage
- Program-related expenses
This ensures equal access for everyone, including participants with fewer opportunities or those facing economic or social barriers.
High-Quality Training and Mentorship
Training is a core part of the ESC experience. Volunteers will receive continuous learning, professional support, and personal development opportunities throughout the entire year.
Training includes:
- Non-formal education methods
- ESC policies, ethics, and guidelines
- Health and safety & Garda Vetting
- Intercultural communication workshops
- Digital skills and online facilitation
- Project planning & documentation
- Research on diversity groups and inclusion
- English language support for non-native speakers
- YouthPass training to help volunteers recognize and record learning outcomes
Participants will also attend on-arrival and mid-term ESC training, ensuring that they are supported from start to finish.
Who Can Apply? Participant Profile for 2026
The program welcomes young people aged 18–30 from:
- Ireland
- Morocco
- Georgia
No specific academic background or previous work experience is required. What matters most is motivation, open-mindedness, and a genuine desire to contribute.
Ideal candidates are:
- Interested in youth work, education, digital workshops, or community projects
- Open to intercultural exchange and teamwork
- Willing to learn and participate actively
- Committed to the values of solidarity, inclusion, and active citizenship
- Inspired to support communities with fewer opportunities
The project strongly encourages applications from young people facing:
- Economic barriers
- Social or cultural obstacles
- Limited access to education or mobility opportunities
- Geographical challenges, including rural isolation
The ESC aims to create a safe, diverse, and supportive environment where every participant can grow.
Why Volunteering in Ireland in 2026 Is a Life-Changing Opportunity
Ireland is known for its friendliness, multicultural communities, and commitment to social inclusion. Through Connect & Thrive, volunteers gain:
1. Professional Development
Participants develop skills in:
- Public speaking
- Teaching and facilitation
- Digital literacy
- Project and event planning
- Research and documentation
- Intercultural communication
These skills are valuable for careers in education, community work, NGOs, digital fields, and international cooperation.
2. Personal Growth
Living abroad for one year builds confidence, adaptability, independence, and leadership—qualities highly valued by employers.
3. Cultural Immersion
Volunteers explore:
- Irish traditions and history
- Local festivals and community events
- Beautiful landscapes around Cork and the wider Munster region
Ireland offers a welcoming environment where volunteers can easily connect with locals and newcomers alike.
4. Meaningful Impact
By supporting inclusion and youth empowerment, participants directly contribute to:
- Community cohesion
- Better integration opportunities
- Improved access to education and skills
Your contribution truly matters—Connect & Thrive is designed to create lasting, positive community change.
Conclusion
The Connect & Thrive: Youth for Inclusion and Empowerment 2026 program is one of the most enriching fully funded volunteering opportunities in Ireland. It offers young people the chance to develop valuable skills, support local youth, promote inclusion, and grow personally and professionally—all while experiencing Irish culture in a vibrant community.
If you are ready to take part in a transformative journey, contribute to meaningful social impact, and join a diverse community of change-makers, this program is the perfect opportunity for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Connect & Thrive program fully funded?
Yes. Accommodation, food, transport, insurance, and program-related costs are fully covered by the European Union through the ESC.
2. Do I need experience in youthwork or teaching?
No. Motivation and willingness to learn are the most important requirements.
3. Who can apply for the 2026 program?
Young people aged 18–30 from Ireland, Morocco, and Georgia.
4. How long does the project last?
The program runs for 12 months.
5. What language skills do I need?
Basic English is recommended, as it will be used in most activities and workshops.
6. Will I receive any certificates?
Yes. Participants receive a YouthPass, which documents skills and learning achievements.