EVS On-Arrival Trainings

Aims & objectives

Aim
To introduce the hosting country and the projects’ environment to incoming volunteers and to empower them so that they cope with the challenges that will occur during their stay and activation.

Objectives
To get to know each other but also to get acquainted with other actors related to the EVS programme in Greece (National Agency, trainers)
To bring volunteers in a primary contact with Greek cultural characteristics.
To create an “informal” volunteers’ network that will constitute a means for mutual support and exchange of experience during their project.
To foster communication skills so that integration of the volunteers in the local community is accelerated and the odds of success of the project are increased. These skills are related to the topics: language training, interculturality and conflict resolution.
To provide participants with space and support for reflection on their future as volunteers (but also, in general) and, as well, for the setting up of an “action plan” as a “compass” for the results that are sought after by each individual.
To exchange “first” experiences with regards to the volunteers’ hosting projects.

Target group & international/intercultural composition of the group & team

Participation of international volunteers.

Training methods used & main activities

The methodology is based on non formal learning fundamentals and the use of subject tools each time depending on the needs of the particular groups, but generally the methods can include:
presentations
discussions
working groups
debates
role playing
reflection techniques
self assessment techniques
experiential learning
energizers
peer education
forum theater
world cafe
open space technology
simulation exercises
buzz groups

Outcomes of the activity

The trainings so far are achieving their objectives as stated above resulting in better EVS projects, more visible impact on the local community and the personal development of the volunteers through understanding and exploration of subjects such as volunteerism, communication, intercultural learning, conflict management, learning processes.

Your tasks and responsibilities within the team

Founding Member of the Pool of Trainers for EVS in Greece.
Course Designer and Trainer
Evaluation

I worked on this training for 5 days as a full time trainer.