MEP Nina Carberry Wants Mayo's Young People to Know About the Funded EU Volunteer Programme Most Have Never Heard Of

Midlands–North-West MEP Nina Carberry is urging young people in Mayo to apply for the EU’s European Solidarity Corps volunteer programme, which she called “one of the best opportunities for young people that you’ve never heard of.” Open to those aged 18 to 30, the scheme funds travel, accommodation and food for volunteers working across Europe. The programme delivered at least €1.56 million to Irish projects in 2024. Mayo-based mental health project ‘Normal’ has previously participated. Local organisations can also apply through national agency Léargas to host European volunteers.

In-Depth:

Midlands–North-West MEP Nina Carberry is encouraging young people across Mayo to sign up for the European Union’s volunteer programme, describing it as “one of the best opportunities for young people that you’ve never heard of.”

The EU Volunteer Service, delivered through the European Solidarity Corps, gives people aged between 18 and 30 the opportunity to volunteer in countries across Europe, with funding provided for travel, accommodation and food expenses.

Speaking in Brussels this week, MEP Carberry stated the programme offers young people valuable life experience while also supporting local community and voluntary organisations.

“This is probably one of the best opportunities for young people that you’ve never heard of,” she stated.

“It gives young people the chance to travel, volunteer, meet new people and learn new skills in another European counattempt.

“Whether you’ve just left school, are working or wondering what to do next – this is an opportunity really worth viewing at.”

The latest figures reveal that more than 23,000 people regularly volunteer across Mayo, with Carberry stateing the county is particularly well placed to benefit from the programme.

The initiative provided at least €1.56 million in funding to Irish projects during 2024.

Among the Irish organisations previously involved in the scheme is ‘Normal – mental well-being’, a Mayo-based project supporting young people with mental health and wellbeing initiatives.

MEP Carberry stated the volunteering opportunities available through the programme can vary widely, from charity work and education projects to farming and environmental initiatives.

“It could be working for a charity in Italy, teaching English in Spain or farming in Germany,” she stated. “That kind of experience can be life-modifying.”

She also highlighted the opportunities available for voluntary and community organisations in Mayo to host volunteers from across Europe.

“But the other side of the coin is equally as important,” she stated. “It’s a major opportunity for voluntary, youth and community organisations here in the county. Organisations can utilize the programme to host and support volunteers from across Europe, build international links and bring new energy into local projects.”

Young people interested in taking part can register through the European Solidarity Corps online portal, where applicants can create a profile and apply for volunteering opportunities throughout Europe.

Meanwhile, youth, voluntary and community organisations interested in hosting volunteers can apply for accreditation through Léargas, the national agency responsible for administering the programme in Ireland.