Volunteering in Vilnius: Hundreds of opportunities or only for those who know how to look?

/EN/

Vilnius is a city where new initiatives, projects and events are born every day. There is no shortage of spaces to create, act and get involved. But when the language turns to volunteering, many young people still ask, "Where to start?" Are there really many opportunities as they are talking about? And most importantly are they visible and accessible to everyone?

Volunteering - the way to the city, the people and themselves

Today, more and more young people are choosing volunteering not only as a way to help others, but also as an opportunity to get to know themselves better - their strengths, interests, community. For many, this becomes the first practical experience to decide on the professional direction, to expand their horizons or to establish long -term relationships.

However, not everyone's way to volunteering is easy. Information about opportunities often spread out different sites, and organizations themselves do not always communicate actively. Some are also discouraged by inner fears - volunteering seems to be for very active or extremely communicative.

Where can you volunteer in Vilnius?

There are hundreds of initiatives in Vilnius that are constantly looking for volunteers - from cultural events to animal care or emotional support lines. A few of the most popular:

• „Kultūros naktis“ – is one of the biggest events in the city, bringing hundreds of volunteers every year.

  
  

• „Maisto bankas“ – invites you to contribute to support or organization.

  
  

• „Nepatogus kinas“, „Open House Vilnius“, „Kino pavasaris“ – are events that often depend on the contribution of volunteers.

  
  

• Gyvūnų prieglaudos (pvz., Tautmilės gyvūnų globos namai) – are constantly looking for help with pets.

  
  

• „Jaunimo linija“ – offers the opportunity to provide emotional support after special training.

  
  

• Community centers, libraries – seeking help in organizing activities, events, education.

  
  

Where to start?

Special platforms are worthwhile to make the beginning easier:

• savanorystevilniuje.lt – a catalog of volunteer initiatives of Vilnius city with constant updates.

  
  

• savaplatforma.lt –is a national volunteering platform that allows you to filter by city, area or time.

• zinauviska.lt/savanoriauk-lietuvoje – Youth Information Network Website with information on organizations, programs and international capabilities.

  
  

For those who want to gain international experience – Europos solidarumo korpusas offers volunteering projects throughout Europe, often with accommodation, meals and financial support.

What to know for the first time to volunteer?

• Experience is not necessary - organizations often provide training and support.

  
  

• It is not the time that matters, but the desire - can choose disposable activities or long -term projects.

  
  

• Not only are communicative - volunteering includes a variety of activities, from animal care to help in events or creative workshops.

  
  

According to the Youth Agency (JRA), volunteering in Lithuania is gaining popularity, but the beginning still remains a challenge for many young people. The main obstacles are the lack of information and the uncertain way to login.

Active youth - a living city

Volunteering is not just helping others. She creates a lively, open, responsible city. A community where everyone can find a place for themselves. If you are still waiting for signs - here he is. Start with a little action and discover your way in Vilnius!