Training for Volunteers in Warsaw

Training within the European Solidarity Corps is mandatory for volunteers whose projects last longer than two months and constitutes an important element of support, helping participants better prepare for their activities, understand their rights and responsibilities, and adapt to a new cultural and social environment. It took place from 16 to 22 February and aimed to support participants in their volunteering journey by providing guidance, practical information, and space for reflection.

Report from our volunteer Gisselle:

During this training trip, I learned many truly important and interesting things. From the very beginning, I had the opportunity to get to know other volunteers better: the cities where they carry out their projects, their motivations for joining the programme, their countries of origin, and aspects of their cultures. Several spaces were dedicated to dialogue and exchange, which allowed me to understand different realities and learn things I had not known before. The training was also an opportunity to understand myself better. We reflected on our skills, qualities, and strengths, and how we can put them at the service of our projects. Through workshops and practical activities, we explored possible challenges that may arise during our volunteering experience and discussed constructive ways to respond to them. This part was especially enriching, as listening to different perspectives broadened my way of thinking and reinforced the importance of teamwork, effective communication, clear role definition, and mutual respect. We also learned some basic Polish phrases, which are very helpful in daily life and support integration, especially in situations where language can become a barrier.

One of the most engaging moments was the fieldwork activity in the streets of Warsaw. In groups, we chose a topic to explore — from traditional food to the relationship between the city and art — and visited different places to speak directly with local people. This experience allowed us to connect with the culture through the voices of its inhabitants, creating a more authentic and participatory learning process. During our stay, we also had the opportunity to visit important places in the city, such as Złote Tarasy, the Palace of Culture and Science, and Ujazdów Castle. Exploring these places helped us better understand Warsaw’s architectural contrasts, cultural life, and historical context, complementing the learning experience beyond the training sessions. We also received practical information essential for our stay, such as how to manage emotional changes during volunteering, where to seek medical support if needed, and who to contact in case of difficulties within the organisation. Having this information provides a sense of safety and confidence throughout the experience. In the final part of the training, we focused on self-care during our volunteering journey. As a group, we shared ideas about maintaining healthy habits, managing stress, exploring new interests, staying connected with family, and finding a balance between commitment to the project and personal well-being. Overall, this training was a very valuable experience for me. It helped me clarify the kind of impact I want to create during my volunteering, how I can positively contribute to the community, and which strengths I can bring to my project. I returned more aware, motivated, and committed to growing through this experience.