Discover a Meaningful Volunteering Experience Supporting Adults with Disabilities in Belgium
Volunteering in Belgium in 2026 offers a unique opportunity to make a real social impact while gaining invaluable personal and professional experience. The SPJ / Centre Reine Fabiola Fully Funded Program is a long-term European Solidarity Corps (ESC) volunteering project based in Neufvilles, a small village in Belgium. This program is ideal for young people who are passionate about social inclusion, community engagement, and supporting adults with intellectual disabilities in a respectful and human-centered environment.
This fully funded volunteering opportunity allows participants to live and work in Belgium while developing practical skills in social work, education, and intercultural communication—all while contributing to the daily well-being of vulnerable adults.
About the SPJ / Centre Reine Fabiola
The Centre Reine Fabiola is a large residential care facility hosting approximately 400 adults with mental disabilities. Managed in collaboration with SPJ (Service Provincial de la Jeunesse), the center focuses on dignity, autonomy, and social inclusion for people with special needs.
Volunteers are integrated into a home unit hosting around 15 residents, where they work closely with professional educators, caregivers, and therapists. The environment is supportive, structured, and designed to help volunteers gradually grow into their role at a comfortable pace.
Volunteer Responsibilities and Daily Activities
As a volunteer at Centre Reine Fabiola, your main role is to support residents in their everyday life while contributing to educational, recreational, and social activities. Tasks are adapted to your experience and comfort level and increase progressively over time.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Assisting residents with daily routines such as dressing, cooking, and personal organization
- Supporting educational and pedagogical supervision alongside trained staff
- Participating in leisure activities such as walks, games, and creative workshops
- Helping residents during manual and artistic activities (painting, soap-making, woodwork, ironwork, farming)
- Encouraging autonomy, confidence, and social interaction among residents
- Supporting the organization of annual events like carnival, soapbox races, Special Olympics, and community celebrations
- Assisting during holiday trips and excursions organized for residents
- Developing and implementing your own activity ideas or personal projects, aligned with residents’ needs
This hands-on role offers deep insight into social care and disability support while fostering meaningful human connections.
Accommodation, Food, and Transport
This is a fully funded volunteering program, ensuring volunteers can focus on their mission without financial stress.
What’s Included:
Accommodation:
Volunteers live in a furnished studio apartment located approximately 2.5 km from the center. The studio includes basic furniture, kitchen facilities, and privacy.
Meals are provided 7 days a week by the center. Volunteers may:
- Eat in the center’s canteen
- Share meals with residents during evening shifts
- Order food from the bursar’s office and cook independently
- Train station located just 200 meters from the accommodation
- Regular connections to Mons, Soignies, and Brussels
- Access to buses and trains throughout the week
- Possibility to borrow a vehicle from the center for specific travel needs
All essential living costs are covered, making this an accessible and inclusive volunteering opportunity.
Training and Ongoing Support
Volunteers receive continuous training and guidance throughout their stay to ensure a positive learning experience.
Training Includes:
- Two official ESC trainings organized by the Belgian National Agency
- Four residential seminars organized by SPJ
- Regular participation in team meetings
- Individual support from a dedicated tutor, usually the home coordinator
- Optional French language lessons on site
Through this training framework, volunteers gain practical knowledge in social work, disability inclusion, teamwork, and communication, while also receiving emotional and professional support.
Who Can Apply? – Participant Profile
This program is open to young people who are motivated to contribute to society and eager to learn from a new cultural and social environment.
Ideal Candidates Are:
- Interested in working with people with mental disabilities
- Motivated to engage in a long-term social project
- Curious, open-minded, and respectful of differences
- Willing to learn or improve their French language skills (the working language is French)
- Self-motivated and adaptable
- Interested in discovering the field of social work and care
No previous experience is required—what matters most is your attitude, empathy, and commitment.
Why Choose Volunteering in Belgium in 2026?
Belgium is known for its strong social systems, cultural diversity, and central location in Europe. Volunteering at Centre Reine Fabiola allows you to:
- Gain real-life experience in social and educational care
- Develop empathy, responsibility, and interpersonal skills
- Learn French in an immersive environment
- Live independently while being supported by a professional team
- Build a strong foundation for future studies or careers in social work, education, or healthcare
- Make a meaningful difference in the lives of others
This is not just volunteering—it’s a life-changing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this volunteering program fully funded?
Yes. Accommodation, food, transport, insurance, and training are fully covered under the European Solidarity Corps.
What is the duration of the project?
The project is long-term, typically lasting between 9 and 12 months.
Do I need to speak French before applying?
French is the working language, but prior fluency is not required. Motivation to learn French is essential, and language support is available.
Is previous experience with disabilities required?
No. Training and gradual integration ensure volunteers learn step by step.
Can I develop my own activities or projects?
Yes. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own ideas and initiatives based on residents’ interests.