International volunteering is one of the most powerful ways young people can learn, grow, and contribute to social transformation. The Volunteering in Türkiye 2026 – OUR FUTURE IS NOW! project is a fully funded ESC (European Solidarity Corps) opportunity designed to bring together young people from Europe and Türkiye to build friendships, strengthen cultural understanding, and promote unity through sports, education, and community activities.
Hosted by GencSen Club, this unique program places sports at the center of personal development, teamwork, and intercultural dialogue. Whether you are passionate about youth empowerment, curious about Turkish culture, or eager to escape digital dependency and reconnect with real social interaction, this volunteering project offers a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
About the Project
The main objective of the project is to create a multicultural environment where young volunteers from European countries engage with local Turkish youth. Through this daily interaction, participants build meaningful relationships, exchange cultural perspectives, and experience the richness of intercultural learning.
Sports play a central role in the project’s methodology. As a universal language, sports unite people regardless of culture, language, or background. Volunteers take part in structured sports training, tournaments, outdoor activities, and youth engagement initiatives—all aimed at reducing prejudice, increasing empathy, and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Key Goals of the Project
- Foster cross-cultural friendships and solidarity
- Use sports as a tool for youth empowerment
- Reduce digital addiction among children
- Promote teamwork, unity, and discipline
- Strengthen personal and psychological development
- Cultivate leadership, cooperation, and self-regulation
- Provide an inclusive, supportive space for refugee and local youth
By contributing to these activities, volunteers become role models for young people while developing essential life skills of their own.
What Volunteers Will Do
As part of this fully funded ESC placement, volunteers participate in a variety of educational and sports-based tasks, such as:
- Organizing sports events, games, and outdoor activities
- Supporting tournaments and team-building exercises
- Mentoring children and youth through non-formal learning
- Helping reduce excessive screen time among young participants
- Encouraging healthy routines, social interaction, and physical activity
- Assisting in intercultural learning events and cultural exchange workshops
- Promoting Olympic values, such as respect, friendship, and excellence
- Sharing their own culture and learning about Turkish traditions
- Supporting communication activities, including social media and youth outreach
Through these initiatives, volunteers directly contribute to the empowerment and wellbeing of young people while learning teamwork, responsibility, and empathy.
Accommodation, Food, and Transport Arrangements
This volunteer opportunity is fully funded, meaning all essential costs are covered through the ESC framework.
Accommodation
Volunteers stay in a modern, fully equipped shared apartment in the city center, with:
- Private or shared bedrooms
- Internet access
- TV
- Washing and dishwashing machines
- A spacious terrace
- Easy access to public transport, malls, and daily amenities
The apartment is shared with other ESC volunteers, creating a supportive community atmosphere.
Financial Support
Participants receive:
- Monthly food allowance
- Monthly pocket money
- Travel reimbursement based on ESC distance calculator
- Local transportation for tournaments and project activities
With all key expenses covered, volunteers can focus entirely on learning, connecting, and contributing.
Training During the Activity
Volunteers benefit from the full ESC training cycle, which includes On-Arrival Training and Mid-Term Evaluation. In addition, they receive specialized learning opportunities tailored to the project.
Topics covered during training include:
- Children’s Rights and child protection
- Olympic values and sport-based education
- Intercultural learning and cultural psychology
- Conflict resolution and crisis management
- Leadership and teamwork
- Right-based approaches to youth work
- Reflection, feedback, and non-formal learning methods
- Using sports equipment and improving individual sports skills
- Basic Turkish language learning
- English practice
- Communication and empathy-building
At the end of the project, volunteers receive a Youthpass certificate, a recognized tool that documents their gained skills and competences.
Participant Profile
The project seeks highly motivated young people aged 18–30, especially those who:
- Are interested in sports or open to becoming more active
- Enjoy working with children and youth
- Are ready to reduce personal overuse of technology
- Are curious about Turkish culture and language
- Are eager to share their own cultural traditions
- Are open-minded, adaptable, and responsible
- Can work individually or as part of a multicultural team
- Are ready to step outside their comfort zone
- Are excited about meaningful community engagement
Prior professional experience is not required—motivation, openness, and willingness to learn are the most important qualities.
Why You Should Join
Volunteering in Türkiye through the OUR FUTURE IS NOW! project offers countless benefits:
Personal Growth
- Increased confidence and independence
- Leadership and communication skills
- Stronger self-discipline and emotional resilience
Professional Development
- Experience in youth work and sports education
- Conflict management and teamwork skills
- Project coordination and intercultural competencies
- Youthpass certification
Cultural Enrichment
- Immersion in Turkish culture, language, and traditions
- Friendships with local youth and international volunteers
- Exposure to diverse perspectives and lifestyles
Lifestyle Benefits
- A healthy balance between digital and physical activities
- New routines centered on sports, wellbeing, and community
- A chance to live in a dynamic Turkish city surrounded by cultural richness
For many volunteers, this experience becomes a life-changing journey filled with purpose and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the program fully funded?
Yes. All essential expenses—accommodation, food allowance, pocket money, travel reimbursement, and local transportation—are covered through the ESC program.
2. Do I need to know Turkish to apply?
No. Turkish lessons will be provided, and volunteers quickly learn basic phrases through daily interactions.
3. What kind of activities will I participate in?
Volunteers support sports events, youth workshops, cultural activities, tournaments, and non-formal learning sessions.
4. Who can apply?
Young people aged 18–30 from ESC-participating countries.
5. Do I need previous experience in sports or youth work?
No, but motivation to learn and participate actively is essential.
6. Will I receive a certificate after the project?
Yes. All volunteers receive a Youthpass certificate recognizing their acquired skills.
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