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.

This long-term ESC project is looking for 2 motivated volunteers. It will take place in Vicenza, in northern Italy near Venice, from September 2025 to September 2026. Volunteers must be available for the full duration. Hosted by Tangram, volunteers will support social and educational projects for children, adolescents, and adults in vulnerable situations. They will assist staff and contribute creatively to the activities, always under the guidance of professionals. Volunteers won’t manage projects alone but will be encouraged to share ideas and take part in planning and implementation. Tasks will be carried out in a collaborative, supportive environment. Working hours are about 27 per week, with occasional weekend activities. Each volunteer may be involved in up to two areas, depending on their skills, interests, and the organization’s needs.

Volunteers will be hosted in shared apartments in Vicenza, together with participants from two other ESC projects (a total of 6 people). The apartments are well connected by public transport. Bedrooms will be shared, with gender separation ensured. Each volunteer will receive: A monthly allowance of 150€ for personal expenses/ESC pocket money of 6€ per day /Round-trip international travel covered according to the ESC distance bands (211€ for 100–499 km; 309€ for 500–1999 km) /A bicycle and public transport tickets for local mobility/Coverage of any visa-related costs, if applicable

On-arrival training (1 week) Mid-term evaluation (4 days) Italian language course (3 hours per week) Workshops on social and environmental topics Training on being a European volunteer Introduction to the third sector in Italy, including what it means to be part of a cooperative

The Participant profile: We are looking for motivated, empathetic, and open-minded young people willing to dedicate 12 months to social work in Vicenza (Italy). Volunteers should be ready to engage in daily life with people in vulnerable situations and contribute actively to educational and community-based activities. A strong interest in social inclusion and a willingness to adapt to new environments are essential. Previous experience in the social field is welcome but not required. A basic knowledge of Italian or at least of English is required to facilitate communication and integration. A valid driving license is required.
Deadline: 30/08/2025 18:00

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.