FPD was founded in 2009, thanks the Regional Governament which granted its foundation on the basis of the activities planned for the social development of the regional rural areas. It is a non-profit regional civil organization, made by young and senior people. It's mission is to promote and facilitate the development of rural areas of the Puglia Region, thanks to the implementation of projects concerning volunteering, youth, social inclusion, environment protection, sustainable development, promotion of the importance of biodiversity, organic farming, nature and sport and outdoor activities. FPD focuses its attention on European mobility, both for the personal development of its single members and for the growth of local partner organizations at International level. The main target group is youth under 35 y.o., but the organization also works with senior people. Both the categories have in common the fact they are made of disadvantaged people from rural areas. The young people are mainly NEET, which means FPD offers them several opportunities to learn, be trained and educated at local and European level in order to enrich their curricula and get more chances for their job-placement or self-employment. FPD cooperates with several Public and Private entities at all levels, such as: a) Municipality of Taurisano (IT) - FPD cooperates in the organization of local events in several fields (waste collection, Music festivals, youth participation in decision making processes, cultural activities, music events, photo exhibitions....); b) Province of Lecce (IT) – FPD had a project concerning young people's involvement in local initiatives concerning ecology and biological food, re-use of different materials and recycle of waste; c) Region of Puglia (IT) – FPD cooperates with its Region on projects concerning promotion of natural resources of rural areas; d) Several EU NGOs are partners in the implementation of Youth Exchanges, Youth and Democracy projects, Training Courses, seminars, workshops, volunteering activties in different fields. What is more, FPD is member of numerous European Networks financed by the Europe for Citizens Programme, for the valorization of the EU Cultural Heritage (tangible, intangible, digital and natural), the promotion of Youth Mobility for learning, training, working, studying and volunteering abroad, the active participation (mainly digital participation) at EU level of youth and seniors.

As a child and youth welfare organisation, VSD as the parent company of Charly's Kinderparadies sees it as its responsibility to promote voluntary work in relevant solidary social projects by providing adequate placements in the European Soldarity Corps such as the kindergartens of Charly's Kinderparadies. As part of an ongoing process of internationalisation, both in the economy and society in general and directly within the company, the aim is also to make a contribution to an open, democratic and tolerant Europe. In addition, the temporary integration of the participants into the everyday life of the children in the kindergarden can provide important impetus and contribute to a positive development in living together. The contact between the children and the volunteers from other ethnic groups and cultures can strengthen "togetherness" and team spirit.

Volunteers will receive comprehensive support throughout their experience, from arrival to departure, ensuring they feel comfortable and well-guided. Meals are provided, with the meal allowance paid in cash or via EC card. Additionally, to facilitate mobility, the cost of the transport ticket for local public transportation will be reimbursed upon submission of proof. The cost of the flight ticket for arrival and departure will be fully covered by us.

To further enhance the experience, we also offer opportunities for personal and professional development, including workshops, skill-building sessions, and guidance on navigating the local culture and administrative systems. Volunteers can participate in networking events to connect with local organizations and other volunteers, fostering collaboration and exchange. Additionally, we provide ongoing feedback and support to ensure that volunteers not only succeed in their roles but also gain valuable insights and skills for their future endeavors.

The Participant profile: Volunteers are engaged in the field of early childhood education, where they have the opportunity to share aspects of their own culture with the children, fostering openness and curiosity towards people from different backgrounds from an early age. The volunteers support the professionals in their daily work in their own mother tongue. The pedagogical concept of Charly's Kinderparadies provides the framework for this. They make contact with the children during their daily play and accompany them in the centre, help them get dressed and offer various play opportunities. In the care area, the volunteers help to serve meals, feed individual children and offer them assistance. In addition, they contribute ideas for new projects, taking into account the children's interests, and support the professionals in the planning and implementation of these projects, which can also take place over a longer period of time. Games, songs and other activities can be planned and carried out. We prefer candidates who have graduated from a vocational school or university in early childhood education.
Deadline: No application deadline

The project is implemented under the European Solidarity Corps Programme, financed by the European Commission.
The participating organisations have to be mindful of these needs as they are responsible for providing a respectful and trusting hosting environment. At the same time, the organisations participating in the initiative devote a great deal of time, energy and resources to set up a high-quality activity; they should therefore expect that European Solidarity Corps participants show a similar level of respect for the local communities and the people that are directly concerned by the activities (https://youth.europa.eu/solidarity/mission_en).
What do we provide ?

• Training before and after the project
• Health insurance during your project
• round-trip travel reimbursement
• accommodation and food
• pocket money
• language course
• Return Week-end
• Youth Pass and SVI international Volunteer passport

Before applying for this volunteering project, you need to enroll yourself at European Solidarity Corps Platform (https://europa.eu/youth/solidarity_en) and specify your European Solidarity Corps Participant Number (PRN).
This organisation holds a European Solidarity Corps Quality Label.
Contact the ESC coordinator at +32 2 888 67 13 to get more informations.