Erasmus+ Volunteering projects allow young people aged 17-30 to take part in unpaid and Full-Time Volunteering activities for up to 12 months in another country within or outside the European Union.
‘My name is Meryem, and I’m 23 years old from Turkey. I have been a Full-Time Volunteer at Volunteering Matters in Ipswich since September 2018, and I can say that from the very beginning I’ve been very happy to the part of this organisation, since we have been doing amazing things!
I have been taking part in different projects, including KEO (Knowledge Equal Opportunities) WASSUP, and Grandmentors. So far, I have taught English in migrant communities, I took part in a campaign for White Ribbon day, and I have been supporting and helping both my managers and other volunteers. Nowadays, I am trying to create a puzzle to be delivered for primary school pupils based on Grooming. On the other hand, under our WASSUP project, we have done an exhibition named 100 WOMEN. I was one the Artists and team member. We raised our voice on the behalf of women who experienced abuse, violence, exploitation and discrimination.
Since September, I should say that I am very satisfied what I have been doing and pleased to work with my all organisation staff members. I have been respected, cared, supported the whole time. I believe I have improved my knowledge, skills, and attitude drastically and Volunteering Matters has helped me a lot. I was very lucky enough to be here, and this experience will stay as full of good memories in my mind forever.
Thank you for your all help, support and respect…’
Meryem’s placement in the UK was made possible through Erasmus+ Volunteering Projects funding, often referred to as EVS (European Voluntary Service).
