Volunteering in Portugal has become one of the most inspiring pathways for young people looking to make a lasting impact on society, and the SYnergia 2026 Fully Funded Volunteering Program stands out as one of the most transformative opportunities available. Hosted by SYnergia, a well-known Portuguese youth organization, this project focuses on empowering young volunteers to contribute to global, social, economic, and environmental change through the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
If you are between 18 and 30 and want to be part of a meaningful initiative that promotes sustainability, equality, cooperation, and active citizenship, this project offers the ideal space to grow, learn, and inspire.
A Project with Purpose: Encouraging Sustainable Development & Active Citizenship
The central mission of the SYnergia 2026 volunteering program is to raise awareness about global challenges and motivate young people to become active contributors to a more sustainable world. The project encourages volunteers to support and promote the UN 2030 Agenda, focusing on topics such as climate action, inequality reduction, environmental protection, and community empowerment.
Through diverse activities, volunteers help local communities understand and act on global issues, becoming key actors in promoting positive change. The program also aims to show young people how volunteering can be a lifestyle rooted in solidarity, empathy, and shared responsibility.
Volunteers will work on initiatives designed to help people recognize their role in addressing universal challenges. Ultimately, this project hopes to inspire young participants to initiate their own sustainable projects at local, national, or even international levels.
Main Activities: Learning, Sharing, and Creating Impact
During the project, volunteers will participate in a wide range of educational and community-oriented activities, including:
1. Promoting the Sustainable Development Goals
Volunteers will help develop workshops, awareness campaigns, and community events to engage local people in conversations about the SDGs. These activities encourage participation, responsibility, and a sense of collective mission.
2. Organizing Cultural and Social Inclusion Events
Working closely with SYnergia’s headquarters at CADI, volunteers will support activities that promote inclusion, arts, sports, and community development. These initiatives help break barriers and allow young people from different backgrounds to connect and collaborate.
3. Supporting Youth with Fewer Opportunities
A core focus of the project is offering support, inspiration, and opportunities to young people facing social or economic challenges. Volunteers will work directly with youth groups, sharing lessons, experiences, and future perspectives.
4. Participating in Training and Non-Formal Education
Throughout the experience, volunteers engage in non-formal learning methodologies, peer-to-peer sessions, intercultural exchanges, and hands-on workshops that foster personal and professional growth.
5. Encouraging Local Participation and Cooperation
Through community-based initiatives, volunteers help create a more involved society where residents understand their role in shaping the future.
Accommodation, Food, and Transport: Everything Fully Covered
Volunteers will be fully supported throughout the entire program. Accommodation is provided in the SYnergia Residence, a shared but fully equipped living space that includes:
- Comfortable shared rooms
- Wi-Fi
- Bed sheets and towels
- A complete kitchen
Food and pocket money are provided directly by the hosting organization, ensuring volunteers can focus fully on their tasks and learning experience.
Activities will take place mainly at CADI – Inclusive Center of Arts and Sports, but some events may be held in collaboration with SYnergia’s partners. Whenever needed, local transportation to activity locations will be fully covered.
This comprehensive support ensures a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay for all volunteers.
Training and Learning Opportunities
Training is a fundamental part of this ESC (European Solidarity Corps) project. Volunteers will receive:
1. Pre-departure Training
Organized by the sending organization, this session helps participants understand the ESC framework, the project’s objectives, and recommended preparation steps.
2. Language Learning Support
Volunteers will have access to Portuguese language learning tools and training to build confidence and ease integration into the community.
3. Non-Formal Education Workshops
These include team-building exercises, leadership training, communication skills, intercultural learning, and youth empowerment activities.
4. National Agency Training
Throughout the program, additional training sessions will be offered by the Portuguese National Agency for Erasmus+, strengthening volunteers’ understanding of youth work and the ESC mission.
All of these sessions aim to build technical, social, and personal skills that will benefit volunteers both during and after the project.
Who Can Apply? Participant Profile
This opportunity is open to young people aged 18 to 30 from eligible countries who are eager to make a meaningful difference. The ideal participant should:
- Be enthusiastic about working with youth
- Have leadership potential and initiative
- Be responsible, organized, and empathetic
- Enjoy teamwork and intercultural environments
- Be able to communicate in English (basic level is enough)
- Be willing to learn Portuguese
- Be ready to share knowledge with young people with fewer opportunities
Above all, this project seeks individuals who are passionate about social change and eager to inspire others.
Why Join the SYnergia 2026 Volunteering Project?
Choosing this project means choosing growth, purpose, and community impact. Volunteers will:
- Build long-term friendships
- Develop key professional skills
- Gain multicultural awareness
- Work directly on social and environmental challenges
- Receive a Youthpass certificate
- Become active agents of change
This experience offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable development while living an enriching cultural adventure in Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the SYnergia 2026 volunteering program fully funded?
Yes. Accommodation, food, pocket money, and local transportation are fully covered. Travel costs are supported according to ESC rules.
2. Do I need previous volunteering experience?
No prior experience is required. Motivation and willingness to learn are the most important factors.
3. How long does the project last?
The duration can vary depending on placement, but it generally follows long-term ESC guidelines.
4. Can I apply if I do not speak Portuguese?
Yes. English is enough, and Portuguese lessons will be provided during the project.
5. Will I receive any official certification?
Yes. Volunteers receive a Youthpass certificate, recognizing their learning and participation.