European Solidarity Corps at Waterford and South Tipperary Community Youth Service: Empowering Change, Creating Impact
The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) funds and supports young people aged between 18 and 30 from EU member states, to volunteer or self-organise projects that benefit communities. Young people can volunteer at home or abroad, through the Volunteering Projects and Solidarity Projects strands. ESC aims to foster active citizenship and strengthen solidarity by funding organisations like Waterford and South Tipperary Community Youth Service (WSTCYS) to host and send volunteers and in turn, create transformative experiences for young people and their local communities. WSTCYS aims to empower and support young people and communities, especially those facing marginalisation, disadvantage, or social exclusion. Their mission is to help individuals take control of their lives, actively engage in their communities and society, and work together for social change.
Discover how ESC volunteers Anna and Maria Teresa spent two months supporting Waterford and South Tipperary Community Youth Service’s UBU Projects, Shy Centre & Ballybeg Cyp, engaging young people through sports, workshops, and community activities.
In the video below, they reflect on their summer programme, highlighting their work with young people aged 10–24. They share how these activities not only enriched their own experiences but also had a positive impact on individuals and the wider community. Their roles included planning and engaging in diverse activities with young people, such as sports, outdoor games, creative workshops, and trips.
“Volunteering in the Community Youth Service has been a wonderful experience that contributed to our personal and professional growth. The supportive environment, the opportunity to make a positive impact on young lives made this an unforgettable journey.”
Watch a short video about Anna and Maria Teresa’s inspiring volunteering journey!
If you’re curious about what the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) has to offer, explore the helpful resources below:
For more information on ESC and how you can get involved, contact our team at yse@leargas.ie