Our ESC in Portugal: An adventure to experience

After long time volunteering in Volunteers Centre Skopje (VCS) and being an active youth participant in the Erasmus+ mobility, we decided to spend a year in Portugal through ESC program.

European Solidarity Corps is an initiative that provides opportunities for young people to volunteer abroad or in their own countries. Helping others, working in teams with different cultures, being active, collaborate on association activities and promote the Erasmus+ program are just some of the actions when doing a voluntary work. The fact of contributing to the society while volunteering is extraordinary! That’s why we decided to come to Arrouquelas, a small village located in the center of Portugal with an amazing landscape, quiet area with lovely and welcoming people. “H2O Associação de Jovens de Arrouquelas” is a youth organization that aims to show that youth in rural areas can and should have the same opportunities as the ones in the urban areas.

Going for an ESC project during the epidemiological situation does not sound like a best idea. But it was quite the opposite! While being here, we developed skills, met new people and learnt how important is to contribute in the community. We truly believe that by living and volunteering in rural area can be of a great impact for us and the citizens living here too. And we must say that, these 2 months while being here were an amazing adventure that everybody should experience it! During this pandemic situation, we never stopped. Our hosting organization allocated activities that will keep us active and involved in the daily routines. All of the activities were guided regarding the safety measures for our health and wellbeing. We feel H2O like our second home and we are excited for another 10 months to spend here.

And if you are reading this, and still thinking if you should take part in an ESC project, do it! You will never regret it! We are thankful to VCS and H2O for giving us this opportunity!