Teenage Programme

The VSI Teenage Programme is open to young people aged 16-25. The Programme aims to involve young people, regardless of social, economic or educational background, physical or mental ability, religious or ethnic origins, or gender, to grow, prosper, learn and develop through volunteering projects that will connect them to their local, national and European communities.

Voluntary work can be an important means for personal and community development and that the possibility of doing voluntary work is often limited to those who have more opportunities in society, thus excluding those who have personal, social or financial difficulties in life.

The Teenage Programme has provided hundreds of young Irish people with the opportunity to engage with other young people from a range of cultural backgrounds in short term voluntary work experiences, in Ireland and abroad.

These short term experiences often lead to a greater community awareness and involvement on the part of the young person, and in many cases make it possible to have a longer term experience later on. Most importantly, it often allows the young person to develop a sense of responsibility, confidence and other social and personal skills.

The Teenage Programme for 2008 will involve a variety of volunteer days, weekend trips and the possibility of a 2-week exchange with international participants. You can download information on the 2008 Teenage Programme projects here.

Youth Leaders Wanted

The programme is currently looking for volunteer youth leaders to assist with the running of the programme. If you are aged 21+, have experience with young people, are dedicated and enthusiastic then contact us. VSI will organise International Youth Leader Training for all youth leaders. Contact teenage@vsi.ie for more info.