Estonia: ESC: Open Youth Work In Toila

About the local hosting organization

Toila municipality Sports and Culture Center started operating in 2001. Center's aim is to organize, develop and maintain cultural, youth and sports work in Toila parish. Toila Sports and Culture Center is an institution managed by Toila Parish Government. It coordinates all of the youth centers (Voka Open Youth Center, Järve Open Youth Center and Kohtla-Nõmme Youth Center), public libraries, sport centers and cultural houses in Toila parish. It holds regular activities such as competitions, marathons and camps, cultural events and concerts and organizes youth work in youth centers. Some main activities in our youth centers are local youth government meetings, cooking club, movie nights, band practices, different hobby groups (such as art group, crafts group, dance group, photography group), visiting other youth centers, game events and summer work camps. Also, in 2019, one of the youth centers received the first international volunteer. At the moment, centers are actively developing international cooperation and socially oriented activities. The target group for Toila sport and culture center is all of the residents of Toila parish. The main tasks of the Toila municipality Sports and Culture Center are: 1) to provide sports and cultural services to the population for leisure activities; 2) to organize sports and cultural events in cooperation with the rural municipality government and other persons; 3) creating conditions for children and young people to develop outside the family, curriculum and work; 4) to preserve sporting and cultural traditions of the area; 5) to organize activities and training groups and to coordinate their participation in events of different levels; 6) to coordinate activities aimed at young people in Toila municipality; 7) to prepare and implement youth work programs and projects, involving young people, members of youth and non-profit associations; 8) to mediate professional sports and culture to the residents of the municipality; 9) to develop youth work and hobbies through activities; 10) to communicate actively with the mass media, to collect and preserve publications, photographs, videos, etc. reflecting the sports and cultural life of the municipality; 11) to organize cooperation with other cultural and sports institutions and organizations both in Estonia and abroad. The staff of the center works to ensure that all residents of Toila municipality - from children to the elderly - have a reason to come together again and again and take part in various cultural events and sports competitions.

Presentation of the programme

Join a 10-month European Solidarity Corps project in Estonia and become part of a welcoming small community! This is an opportunity to gain international experience while contributing to the daily life of youth centers, schools, and kindergartens. At the youth center you will discover an open and inclusive approach to youth work, where young people aged 7–26 can feel safe, spend time together, and express themselves freely. Cooperation with local institutions will create opportunities to connect with children, teachers, and community members. The project values cultural exchange, personal initiative, and learning through experience. Volunteers can share their perspectives, explore their interests, and develop ideas with support from local staff. We are looking for open-minded, responsible, and motivated people who are ready to learn, build meaningful connections, and experience everyday life in Estonia from a local perspective. Infopack: https://canva.link/infopacktoilaesc26

About the accomodation

You will live in Jõhvi in a two-room apartment together with another volunteer. You will have your own private room. The apartment is fully equipped and has everything you need for everyday life. Your travel costs will be covered according to programme rules. You'll receive €6 daily food allowance to organize your meals as you wish, plus €5 daily pocket money, health insurance, a local SIM card, and support with local transportation between your home and volunteering places.

About the leisure activities

The Estonian National Agency provides on-arrival training where you'll meet fellow ESC volunteers and learn essential information about living in Estonia. A mid-term evaluation offers the opportunity to reflect on your experience and connect with other volunteers. You'll have a dedicated mentor providing regular guidance and support for both personal and project-related matters. Coordinating organization (AEYC) will introduce you to open youth work principles, ensuring you understand our inclusive approach and develop practical skills for working with young people.

Requirements

The Participant profile: We are looking for you, if you are: - motivated and open to working with children and young people aged 7–26; - interested in open youth work and non-formal learning creative and willing to share your ideas, hobbies, or culture; - responsible, proactive, and ready to take initiative; - patient, positive, and open-minded in a multicultural environment; - willing to cooperate with youth workers, schools, and kindergartens; - interested in living in a smaller community and experiencing local life in Ida-Virumaa. We value enthusiasm, flexibility, and a genuine interest in supporting young people’s development.Deadline: