Spain – Barcelona Youth Empowerment

The Youth Empowerment project in Barcelona is a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people from disadvantaged communities. As a volunteer, you will assist students aged 5-18 in after-school centers, providing homework help, organizing activities, and teaching English. The program aims to foster personal development, establish life skills, and change young people’s expectations for their futures.

 

Program Highlights:

  • Engage in enriching cultural exchange by interacting with local students and community members.
  • Develop your teaching and mentoring skills while making a positive impact on the education of young people.
  • Help foster personal development and establish life skills for a better future.
  • Work closely with organization staff and other international volunteers.
  • Explore the vibrant and culturally rich city of Barcelona.

 

Your Schedule at a Glance (Minimum two-week commitment):

  • Arrival Day – Sunday: Pickup at Barcelona International Airport “El Prat” and transfer to accommodations.
  • Monday: Orientation session, including an introduction to Spain, volunteer experience overview, safety guidelines and city tour.
  • Tuesday: Introduction to the placement staff, explanation of the daily tasks and schedule setup.
  • Tuesday-Friday: Volunteer activities at the after-school center, assisting with homework, organizing activities, and teaching English.
  • Saturday-Sunday: Free time to explore Barcelona and its surroundings, or take part in optional tours and activities.
  • Note: Monday’s welcome session and city tour only happens during the first week. In the following weeks, Monday is a regular day of volunteering. Departures are on a Saturday.

 

Location icon Location of the Project: Barcelona, Spain

Project length Project length: Minimum 2 weeks – Maximum 12 weeks

Arrival Airport Arrival Airport: Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN)

Volunteer Work Volunteer Work: Assisting students with homework, organizing activities, teaching English, and mentoring.

Age Age: minimum 18

Number of Volunteers Number of Volunteers:  1-20 volunteers

 

What’s Included

Accommodations Accommodations: Dormitories in a social hostel, 15 minutes from the city center. Optional private rooms for an extra fee.

Food Food: Breakfast and lunch

Airport Transfers Airport Transfers: Airport pickup

Orientation Orientation: Program introduction and city tour is provided on the first Monday

Support Support: Comprehensive and professional pre-departure travel guidance, 24/7 GoEco emergency hotline, experienced local field team.

 

What’s not Included

  • Flights,
  • Visas (if required),
  • Dinner,
  • Travel health insurance,
  • Personal expenses,
  • Airport drop off (around 50 Euros)
  • Budget around 100-200 Euros per week for excursions in and around Barcelona

Barcelona, the vibrant and enchanting seaside city of Spain, offers a unique blend of culture, architecture, and natural beauty. Nestled between mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, it is a city of boundless culture, fabled architecture, and sun-drenched beaches. Its food, people, and language reflect the rich historical and cultural heritage. With over 300 sunny days per year, Barcelona is an ideal place for outdoor activities and exploring its picturesque neighborhoods. The city’s transportation system makes it easy to navigate, and its position in Europe allows for quick travel to other European capitals. Barcelona’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions make it a perfect location for the Youth Empowerment project

The Youth Empowerment initiative is organized by a renown social enterprise that aims to connect volunteers with local projects. These projects have a positive impact on both society and the environment. The goal of the project is to promote sustainable and responsible travel experiences and change people’s perception of travel.

Volunteers in the Youth Support project play a crucial role in providing a supportive environment for young people in after-school centers. They assist with homework, organize educational and recreational activities, and teach English to help students develop essential life skills. The goal is to help break the cycle of poverty and inspire positive expectations for the future.

As a volunteer, you will be involved in these tasks:

  • Assisting students aged 5-18 with homework.
  • Organizing educational and recreational activities.
  • Teaching English to improve language skills.
  • Mentoring and providing guidance to young people.
  • Collaborating with organization staff to support the after-school center.
  • Helping with trips to the beach or summer camps during school holidays.
  • Fostering an inclusive environment for all students.

 

Following the orientation, volunteers will engage in either morning, afternoon, or evening shifts at their assigned placements. The duration of work typically ranges from 3 to 5 hours each day. It’s important to note that the specific start times and the amount of daily work can vary depending on the needs of the project, so flexibility is key.

Internet icon Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available at the volunteer accommodation.

Laundry icon Laundry: Laundry facilities and services are available at the hostel for an extra fee.

Accommodations icon Accommodations: As a volunteer, you will stay in a social hostel with a meaningful mission, located 15 minutes from the city center. Accommodation options include dormitories with gender separation and shared bathrooms. Bed sheets are provided, and volunteers can store their belongings safely in a lockable box. Private rooms are available upon request for an extra fee and subject to availability.

Food icon Food: The program provides two daily meals prepared by local chefs: breakfast and lunch. The food features fresh, locally sourced ingredients, allowing volunteers to savor a diverse range of traditional Catalan and Spanish dishes. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions or needs. Just mention this in your application form.

  • Age: minimum 18
  • Being able to get a Schengen tourism visa, we don’t provide Visa support.
  • Criminal Background Check
  • Travel insurance covering health and accidents
  • GoEco interview
  • Good level of English
  • Spanish or/Catalan highly valued, other languages a plus
  • High level of independence, responsibility, and flexibility
  • Adaptability and appreciation for diversity, as we work with people of different ages, backgrounds and cultures.

In your free time, you have a variety of tours and activities to choose from (for an extra fee). We’ll provide a detailed list during the orientation session, but here are a few examples to give you an idea:

Spanish Language Lessons:
Enhance your communication skills with our Spanish language lessons, available to all volunteers regardless of proficiency level. Taught by professional instructors, these classes run from Monday to Friday and are priced affordably, with costs varying based on class size.

Culinary Adventure – Pincho Experience:
Indulge in the local cuisine with a Pincho experience in Carrer del Blai, a popular spot for socializing and savoring traditional Spanish bites. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in Barcelona’s vibrant food scene.

Water Sports in La Barceloneta:
Embrace the thrill of water sports in the lively neighborhood of La Barceloneta. Whether it’s windsurfing, kitesurfing, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean breeze, there’s an adventure waiting for you by the sea.

Hiking and Exploring Montserrat:
Discover the natural beauty of Montserrat with a hike through its scenic trails. Explore caves, visit the ancient monastery, and if you’re a rock climbing enthusiast, you’ll find this location to be a climber’s paradise.

 

Additional Highlights:

  • Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich history and art of Barcelona by visiting landmarks like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter.
  • Beach Relaxation: Spend your free time lounging on the beautiful beaches of Barcelona, soaking up the sun and enjoying the coastal vibes.
  • Local Festivals: Participate in local festivals and events to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant Spanish culture and traditions.

 

 

Volunteer Experiences

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