Explore a Life-Changing Opportunity with EHO’s “Poverty to Power” Program
Volunteering abroad is one of the most transformative experiences a person can have — and Serbia’s “Poverty to Power” program offers an inspiring chance to contribute to real social change. Organized by EHO (Ecumenical Humanitarian Organization), which has spent over 30 years fostering equality, dignity, and social justice, this fully funded 9–12 month volunteer position allows participants to support children from marginalized communities.
This role goes far beyond traditional volunteering: it empowers you to shape educational journeys, foster resilience, and help children overcome barriers linked to poverty, discrimination, exclusion, and trauma. If you are passionate about children’s rights, informal education, and humanitarian work, this program is an extraordinary opportunity to grow personally and professionally.
About EHO and the “Poverty to Power” Initiative
EHO is one of Serbia’s most respected humanitarian organizations, dedicated to creating a fairer, more inclusive society. Their programs prioritize dignity, equality, and empowerment, especially among communities affected by poverty, displacement, and social exclusion.
The “Poverty to Power” program focuses on supporting children who face complex challenges, including:
- Social exclusion
- Poverty and difficult living conditions
- Forced or early marriages
- Violence and abuse
- Deprivation and limited access to education
As an Education Assistant, you become part of a dedicated team working to break cycles of exclusion and offer children a safe, supportive, and empowering educational environment.
Your Role as an Education Assistant in Serbia
This fully funded volunteer position is hands-on, creative, and meaningful. You will support children aged 6–14 from Roma communities, shelters, and migrant centers. Your work contributes directly to improving their academic performance, emotional well-being, and self-confidence.
Key Responsibilities
1. Educational and Psychosocial Support
You will help children with homework, language learning, and general academic tasks. Many of these children face significant learning gaps, so your encouragement and patience are essential.
2. Creative and Non-Formal Education Workshops
Using arts and creativity, you’ll design and run workshops such as:
- Drawing and painting
- Crafts
- Puppetry
- Basic theater and storytelling
- Language learning activities
- Interactive games that build communication and social skills
These activities help children express themselves, develop problem-solving abilities, and reconnect with learning in a positive way.
3. One-on-One Mentorship
Some children require individual attention due to trauma, instability, or significant educational gaps. As a mentor, you will help them build trust, self-esteem, and learning autonomy.
4. Collaboration with Staff and Other Volunteers
You will be part of a supportive multicultural team. Together, you will:
- Adapt workshops to each child’s needs
- Share observations and progress updates
- Improve activity plans based on evaluation results
5. Monitoring and Evaluation
You will help track each child’s progress and assess the impact of your activities. This ensures the program remains effective and responsive.
6. Cooperation with Social Services and Migrant Centers
EHO collaborates closely with:
- The Center for Social Care
- The Center for Migrants
You may participate in joint activities or meetings to ensure children receive the holistic support they need.
Accommodation, Food & Transportation
This volunteer experience is fully funded, ensuring you can focus entirely on your work and personal growth.
Where You Will Live
You will stay in a spacious apartment in Novi Sad, one of Serbia’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities. The apartment includes:
- A private bedroom for each volunteer
- A shared bathroom
- A fully equipped kitchen
- All essential furniture
This setup ensures comfort, independence, and a supportive community atmosphere with fellow volunteers.
Financial Support
You will receive 470 EUR per month, which covers:
- Meals
- Local transportation
- Communication costs
Getting Around
Transportation is provided mainly through public buses in Novi Sad. When project tasks require it, EHO offers car transportation to ensure safety and timely travel.
Training and Preparation
To support you in working effectively and respectfully with children from diverse and marginalized backgrounds, EHO provides structured training at the beginning and throughout your service.
Training Topics Include:
- Cultural understanding of Roma communities
- Working with children in shelters
- Education and integration of refugee children
- Intercultural communication
- Non-formal educational methods
- Basic project management
- Child protection protocols
This training ensures you feel confident, informed, and supported from day one.
Ideal Participant Profile
This opportunity is perfect for individuals who are passionate, creative, and dedicated to social change. You don’t need professional experience — motivation and empathy are far more important.
Who Should Apply?
You will thrive in this role if you are:
- Passionate about working with children
- Creative and able to design engaging workshops
- Patient, empathetic, and understanding
- Motivated to support children facing hardship
- Adaptable and open to learning about new cultures
- A strong communicator
- A team player
- Interested in education, community development, or humanitarian work
Apply Here
Previous experience in teaching, youth work, psychology, or social work is beneficial but not required. Multiple volunteers will work together, ensuring a supportive team environment.
Why Volunteering in Serbia 2026 Is a Transformative Experience
This program allows you to:
- Develop real teaching and social work skills
- Gain experience working with vulnerable communities
- Expand your intercultural understanding
- Build lifelong friendships
- Boost your CV for future humanitarian or educational careers
- Contribute to meaningful social impact
You will leave Serbia with unforgettable memories, professional experience, and the knowledge that you made a difference in children’s lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need teaching experience to apply?
No. A passion for working with children and willingness to learn are the most important qualities.
2. Is this program fully funded?
Yes. Accommodation, transportation, and a 470 EUR monthly allowance are provided.
3. How long does the program last?
The volunteer placement lasts 9–12 months.
4. Where will I live?
Volunteers stay in a shared apartment in Novi Sad, each having a private bedroom.
5. What age group will I work with?
You will support children aged roughly 6–14 from vulnerable backgrounds.
6. What training is provided?
You will receive training in intercultural work, non-formal education, child protection, and working with Roma, migrant, and shelter-based children.