About the local hosting organizationThe non-profit organization I Girasoli was founded in 2004 by then is involved in social project promoting hospitality, protection and integration of refugees and asylum seekers. Main aim of the organization is providing work opportunities for refugees and asylum seekers, and sensitize local community about migration. The organization manages several SAI (Reception and Integration System) offering hospitality and protection including an integration process aiming at refugees and migrants personal needs, social and mental well-being. This process includes: school, work, health, bureaucracy and personal expression thanks to cultural and artistic activities. This activity is part of ESC High Priority Area VEIL-CORPS funded by the European Union in the frame of the European Solidarity Corps Programme.
Presentation of the programmeThe work will be dynamic and varied, combining physical effort and creativity. The main activities include the Almond Harvest, which is direct agricultural work on confiscated lands, following the rhythms of Sicilian nature. Volunteers will also contribute to Urban and Artistic Regeneration through small maintenance tasks, artistic decoration, and greenery care at Girasoli House, aiming to make it an increasingly welcoming space rich in social messages. A key part of the project is Event Organization, specifically planning the Almond Festival and creating an interactive map of the organizations managing confiscated assets in Sicily. Through their participation, volunteers will become part of an active network that transforms assets taken from crime into resources for the community, supported by local partners such as ARCI, IGNet European Network, and various local associations committed to the fight against the mafia.
Local accommodationVolunteers will stay in a house equipped with a 6-bed room and a 4-bed room, ensuring shared but comfortable living arrangements. Meals will be prepared on-site, with access to a kitchen and refrigerator for use as needed. The association will be responsible for purchasing groceries, taking care of specific dietary needs such as vegetarian preferences, allergies, or intolerances. The house also includes a Wi-Fi connection to support volunteers during their stay.
About the project locationThe house is located in the province of Caltanissetta, near the Mandorleto, offering volunteers a unique opportunity to explore the surrounding areas. While the location is remote and far from public transport stops, the association will provide transportation during free days. Volunteers, together with their group leader, will plan visits to Caltanissetta and other nearby attractions, ensuring a balance between relaxation and cultural exploration.
RequirementsVolunteers must be prepared to participate in a variety of activities throughout the activity, including agricultural tasks and interactions with children, young people, and the local community to foster inclusive and joyful experiences. Adaptability and a proactive attitude are essential. Participants should bring comfortable clothing, outdoor-appropriate footwear, autumn clothes, a hat for sun protection, mosquito repellent, a towel, personal hygiene items, an umbrella, and anything else suited to outdoor activities and weather conditions. Candidates must be 18 to 30 years old and reside in one of the eligible countries. When adding together this new volunteering opportunity and any previous participation in EU volunteering programmes, the total duration cannot exceed 12 months.
Extra info about the projectThis project is open only for Spain (De Amicitia), Italy (InformaGiovani), France (Solidarites Jeunesses) and Ukraine (UnionForum)
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Italy: INTERCULTURE IN CONFISCATED SPACE
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