A Meaningful Volunteering Experience in Finland
Volunteering in Finland in 2026 offers a unique opportunity to support people on their path toward a more meaningful, balanced, and independent life. Through this fully funded European Solidarity Corps (ESC) program, volunteers will join Valo, a national Finnish association dedicated to improving access to learning, employment, wellbeing, and active participation in society.
This long-term volunteering opportunity (12 months) focuses on coaching, counselling, and guidance work with young people and adults who may face social isolation, gaps in education, mental health challenges, or long-term unemployment. The program combines hands-on experience, professional mentoring, and personal growth in a safe, inclusive, and supportive Nordic environment.
About Valo: Empowering Lives Through Support and Guidance
Valo is a well-established organization in Finland that works nationally to promote inclusion, wellbeing, and access to opportunities for all. Its services are designed to help individuals who are looking for direction in life by offering personal coaching, peer support, and structured daily routines.
As a volunteer, you will work alongside trained professionals and peer experts, contributing to real social impact while developing valuable life and work skills. Valo’s approach is based on patience, trust, encouragement, and long-term empowerment rather than quick fixes.
Volunteering Role: Coaching and Counselling Support
The main focus of this volunteering program is supportive coaching and guidance work. Volunteers are not expected to be experts; instead, they act as empathetic supporters who help participants regain confidence and motivation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting young people and adults in coaching and counselling activities
- Helping plan, carry out, and evaluate group and individual activities
- Encouraging participants to develop routines, confidence, and life skills
- Assisting professionals and peer experts in daily guidance work
- Participating in creative, outdoor, and digital activities based on your interests
- Contributing ideas for new activities and community-based initiatives
Each volunteer’s role is shaped by their strengths and interests, ensuring a personalized and rewarding experience.
Who Benefits from Your Volunteering?
The people you will support may include:
- Young adults experiencing social isolation
- Individuals with interrupted education or limited work experience
- People facing mental health challenges
- Long-term unemployed adults seeking direction and structure
Your presence, consistency, and encouragement can make a meaningful difference in helping participants feel valued, heard, and capable of moving forward.
Accommodation, Food, and Financial Support
This is a fully funded ESC volunteering program, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent participation.
What is covered:
- Accommodation in Jyväskylä, shared or private depending on availability
- Monthly pocket money provided by the ESC program
- Meals fully covered
- Health insurance for the entire volunteering period
- Travel cost reimbursement based on distance
- Ongoing logistical support from Valo
Valo ensures that volunteers live in a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment, allowing them to focus fully on their volunteering experience.
Training and Learning Opportunities
Training and personal development are central to this volunteering opportunity in Finland.
You will receive:
- On-arrival training organized by the National Agency
- Mid-term training with other international ESC volunteers
- Continuous mentoring and reflection sessions
- On-the-job learning in:
Communication and social media
Creative and artistic approaches
Nature-based and outdoor activities
Games and digital tools
Life in Finland as a Volunteer
Finland is known for its high quality of life, safety, and strong social values. Jyväskylä, located in central Finland, offers a perfect balance between nature and urban life. Volunteers can enjoy forests, lakes, outdoor activities, and a calm lifestyle while being part of an international community.
Living in Finland also provides a chance to experience:
- Nordic culture and values
- A strong focus on wellbeing and equality
- Innovative approaches to education and social work
- Clean nature and outdoor adventures year-round
Participant Profile: Who Can Apply?
This volunteering opportunity is open to young people aged 18–30 from all backgrounds, including those with fewer opportunities. No formal qualifications or prior experience are required.
Ideal candidates are:
- Motivated and empathetic
- Open-minded and willing to learn
- Interested in supporting others
- Comfortable working with diverse groups
Applicants with interests or skills in the following areas are especially encouraged:
- Creative work, arts, or crafts
- Nature, outdoor activities, or physical movement
- Games, digital tools, or media
The most important requirement is a genuine desire to help others and grow personally.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete:
- The official application form
- A motivation letter/questionnaire via the provided link
Apply Here
Applications are reviewed based on motivation, openness, and willingness to engage in the program.
Why Choose Volunteering in Finland 2026?
This ESC volunteering program with Valo offers:
- A fully funded long-term volunteering experience
- Hands-on work in coaching and counselling
- Professional mentoring and structured learning
- A safe and inclusive environment
- Strong personal and professional development opportunities
It is an ideal choice for young people seeking meaningful international volunteering that combines social impact with self-discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this volunteering program fully funded?
Yes. Accommodation, meals, pocket money, insurance, and travel costs are covered under the ESC program.
Do I need previous experience in counselling or youth work?
No. Training and mentoring are provided, and motivation is more important than experience.
How long is the volunteering period?
The volunteering period lasts 12 months.
What language is required?
English is sufficient. Finnish language skills are not required.
Can people with fewer opportunities apply?
Yes. Applicants from all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
Where will I live during the project?
Volunteers will live in Jyväskylä, in shared or private accommodation depending on availability.