In this study visit (SV) we will explore how we can use volunteering activities as a tool for NEETS to turn around a downward spiral, be aware of their own resources and potential, and (in a longer perspective) help them succeed with education or employment. The SV follows the model of a SV with the same theme and aim arranged last year, that had great success.

The participants will get to know the inclusion projects arranged by the Finnish organisation Villa Elba, how the volunteers contribute in the local society, and what are the success factors for including young people with fewer opportunities in volunteering projects.

There is also an opportunity to find partners, and the aim is to establish long term cooperation for volunteering projects. We believe that many young people with fewer opportunities need stability and predictability, and creating good cooperation between partners can be a key factor to succeed with this specific target group.

This SV is thus a combined SV and contact seminar, run over just two days. On the third day (1st of December) the participants will be given an opportunity to get to know Villa Elba better, through excursions and meetings with different stakeholders. The third day is voluntary, in order to adjust to those who don’t have the opportunity to be away from work and/or family all three days.

During the SV we will:
– Get to know Villa Elba, their projects and activities,
– Explore and discuss what are the success factors in inclusion projects for volunteering activities,
– Discuss project results, empowerment of the volunteers and sharing of experiences,
– Meet volunteers participating in an ongoing inclusion project,
– At evening/night time the 29th of November: Participate in the “Elf walk”, an activity organized by the volunteers for the local families.
– Get to know the other organisations represented on the seminar through short presentations, “speed dating” and rotating conversations.
– Create a basis for future cooperation in volunteering activities for young people with fewer opportunities.

We will strive to achieve a balance between sending and hosting organisations. Since experience shows that hosting organisations that work with inclusion can be hard to come by, these will be given priority. We will also give priority to those who are already in the process of starting up projects of this exact type.

This will be held in Kokkola in Finland, hosted by the Finnish hosting organisation for volunteering activities, Villa Elba. All participants will be hosted in small cottages in the countryside, and will share bedroom with between 3 and 7 other people. All meals will be provided by the organisations restaurant at the site.