TOSCA – Training and support for organisations active in European Solidarity Corps

Training Course

4-8 November 2024 | Sofia, Bulgaria

This edition of TOSCA is focusing on active participation and civic engagement strengthening of the projects within the European Solidarity Corps.

This training activity aims to support and build up the capacities of organizations that actively participate in volunteering actions of the European Solidarity Corps, in order to ensure quality and impact in the respective projects.

The Solidarity Corps promote participation of young people in democratic processes and civic engagement. With volunteering at its heart, the programme engages and empowers young people to be active in society, strive for the principles of unity and diversity, as well as social, cultural and historical heritage. 

We need to be aware that all volunteering activities are an act of participation and civic engagement, even if the activity focuses as a topic on environment, inclusion or digital transformation. Volunteers become a part of a local community, active members of a social change. 

During this TOSCA we would like to start a discussion on how we can focus on the participation aspect, how we draw the youngsters attention that being a volunteer is being active in the society , being engaged and empowered during but as well after the participation in the programme.

Objectives and benefits of the training course

• Foster understanding, awareness and commitment to core quality criteria of the European Solidarity Corps
• Build up competences on how to design and implement European Solidarity Corps projects with a view to quality
• Ensure clarity and support on how the programme works formally: opportunities, guidelines, structures, priorities, rules, and procedures
• Give space to participants to express burning issues and needs and offer support where possible
• Foster a supportive community of organisations involved in the European Solidarity Corps
• Awaken the learner within

We are looking for participants who:

• Are involved in the Volunteering Actions of the European Solidarity Corps Programme.
• Are connected to organisations/institutions holding a Quality Label for Volunteering (or an accreditation for Volunteering in Erasmus+).
• Create learning opportunities within the organisation and for volunteers.
• Know the basic principles and practicalities of the European Solidarity Corps Programme.

Online preparation

As part of the course, there’s an initial online meeting you’ll need to attend before the residential training in Hungary. This phase has two main goals:

• To introduce essential information that everyone should know.
• To create a sense of community among participants.

During this phase, you’ll also begin your first assignments, where you’ll assess your organization, local community, and personal needs.

More information at: SALTO