Lithuania: ESC: #Planet for youth. Joy in kindergarten.

About the local hosting organization

Our purpose is to provide social support and to help people. Our activities are based on professional social help and community-based social initiative.GOALS:• Analyse the community’s resources, identify the most important social needs and provide social services to various target groups in the community;• Encourage people to solve their problems more actively, helping them develop mutual assistance and cooperation;• Encourage people to share their own resources, create good conditions for them to engage in voluntary activities and support social initiatives of the parish;• Take care of the training, personal development and professional competence improvement for social workers and volunteers;• Seek mutual cooperation between the social support institutions in the parish territory;• Encourage public spirit and strengthen non-governmental sector activities.Main ACTIVITIES:DAY CARE CENTER VAIKAI – VAIKAMS – help for 7–12 year-old kids and their parents who experience difficulties.TRANZITAS – help for 12–14-year-old kids and their families who experience difficulties.TRAMPLINAS – long-term programme for 14–20-year-old people who experience difficulties.SOFKĖ – social work on the street with young people.ATVIRA BENDRUOMENĖ – integrated social help for people with intellectual and complex disabilities and for their families.FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM – help by providing food to those who lack it.COMMUNITY EVENTS – organizing holidays for the parish.VOLUNTEERING – rallying and supporting local and international volunteers.

Presentation of the programme

Our kindergarten is grounded in Christian values, where each child (aged 2–6) is seen as a unique individual and learning happens mainly through play and non-formal education. We create a safe, home-like environment where children explore, develop social and emotional skills, and learn to care for one another, while speaking mostly Lithuanian and growing at their own pace. Volunteers are expected to respect our values and begin by simply being present—greeting children, observing their play, and offering a sense of safety and care—gradually building relationships, joining activities, and supporting daily routines alongside educators.

About the accomodation

Project provides a travel costs reimbursement from volunteer country of residence to Lithuania and back home after the project. The amount of reimbursement depends on the distance between sending and hosting countries. Volunteer will live in a shared apartment together with other volunteers, but in separate rooms. All the utilities are going to be payed by the organization. Volunteers are going to be provided with monthly amount of food and pocket money and a local transportation monthly ticket.

About the leisure activities

Volunteers take part in several trainings to support their journey. Before departure, a preparatory session is held by the sending organization. Soon after arrival, the Lithuanian National Youth Agency offers on-arrival training. Midway through the project, a mid-term seminar brings volunteers together to reflect, share experiences, and recharge. Depending on the home country, some volunteers join training after returning home. Throughout, a tutor supports daily activities and a mentor helps reflect on the international ESC experience.

Requirements

The Participant profile: We don’t expect you to have previous experience or a specific educational background, and strong English skills are not essential. What matters most is your genuine care for children and your willingness to be present with them. We are looking for a responsible, energetic, and initiative-taking person who loves working with young children, is open to learning, and respects our Catholic values. In our kindergarten, relationships are at the heart of everything—through simple daily moments like playing, listening, and exploring together, you will build trust and connection with children aged 2–6. This experience is not only about supporting their growth but also about your own personal development. You should be ready to stay in Lithuania for the full duration of the project, be between 18 and 30 years old, and not have participated in a long-term EVS or ESC project before. Motivation and a sincere desire to be part of this environment are what truly matter.Deadline: 30/06/2026 22:25