European Union: Past and PerspectivesCivil Society and Volunteering

Europe for Citizens programme: DIA-EU

Dialogue with EU – Dialogue with EU –

The Voices of the European Citizens The Voices of the European Citizens

Dr Sophia Wanche-PolitiKMOP, Greece

Volunteering – the heart of a shared citizenship

Europe for Citizens programme: DIA-EU

Dialogue with EU – Dialogue with EU –

The Voices of the European Citizens The Voices of the European Citizens

The Importance of Volunteering

Diversity of European society reflected

All can contribute to positive change

Social inclusion & Integration facilitated

Solutions to societal issues

Significant economic factor

Innovative partnerships created

Lifelong learning opportunities

Europe for Citizens programme: DIA-EU

Dialogue with EU – Dialogue with EU –

The Voices of the European Citizens The Voices of the European Citizens

Volunteering in the European Union

Embracing key European values: democracy solidarity participation

Europe for Citizens programme: DIA-EU

Dialogue with EU – Dialogue with EU –

The Voices of the European Citizens The Voices of the European Citizens

EU policy areas where volunteering key:

Life-long learning agenda Policies affecting young people Inter-generational dialogue Active ageing Integration of migrants Intercultural dialogue Civil protection Humanitarian aid and development Sustainable development and environmental protection Human rights Social service delivery Raising employability Bridging the 'digital divide’ Corporate Social Responsibility

Europe for Citizens programme: DIA-EU

Dialogue with EU – Dialogue with EU –

The Voices of the European Citizens The Voices of the European Citizens

Added value of volunteering: social capital

less need for welfare benefits

less crime

less need for government service provision

increased security

good community and European relations

Europe for Citizens programme: DIA-EU

Dialogue with EU – Dialogue with EU –

The Voices of the European Citizens The Voices of the European Citizens

Benefits of Volunteering:

transnational sharing of ideas and perspectives

awareness of mutual rights and responsibilities

the fostering of transferable skills

the adaptability to work within different environmentsand cultures

Europe for Citizens programme: DIA-EU

Dialogue with EU – Dialogue with EU –

The Voices of the European Citizens The Voices of the European Citizens

European Year 2011: Volunteering

European Year 2012: Active Ageing and Intergenerational Solidarity

Europe for Citizens programme: DIA-EU

Dialogue with EU – Dialogue with EU –

The Voices of the European Citizens The Voices of the European Citizens