ASHA “Volunteering in Youth Work” is an Erasmus+ Key Action 1 – Mobility of Youth Workers (October 2014 deadline) project aimed at developing youth worker competences in volunteer management, promotion of volunteering among young people and exchanging expertise on volunteer projects. The project will take place between June and September 2015. Due to high demand and interest among European partners, we have jointly decided to divide the project into two activities (one in June and one in September 2015). This project will involve two groups of 32 youth workers (64 youth workers in total) from ten organisations based in nine European countries. The objectives of this project - and intended impact includes: - To increase youth worker competences in volunteer management - To promote volunteering among young Europeans - To reflect on the nature of voluntary work and its importance to young people today, especially in relation to their current socio-economic needs (employment, social inclusion) - To exchange experience and good practice in youth volunteering - To further the co-operation between project partners, notably within the Erasmus+ EVS Programme As a result of the project, participants will have a better understanding of volunteering as a tool and method in youth work practice. They will have a chance to reflect on the needs of young people and the beneficial effects of volunteering. Long-term project impact includes increased capacity of partner organisations to organise volunteer projects and development of joint EVS projects and other Erasmus+ projects. The ASHA Centre is a hub of volunteering activities. We regularly host EVS and Horizon Programme volunteers from across Europe. We occasionally host international volunteers from Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Additionally, ASHA engages the local community in the Forest of Dean in a range of volunteer activities on its premises, including at ASHA’s Biodynamic Garden. The project will also draw on the expertise of voluntary sector organisations based in the Forest of Dean, including the Camphill Trust (Grange) and Ruskin Mill. Both training courses will be based on non-formal learning methods. Project working methods will include: - Small group work - Multimedia presentations - Creative presentations (theatre, dance, musical performances) - Simulation exercises and role plays - Site visits to volunteering projects/programmes across Gloucestershire - Ice-breaking activities - Name-games - Team-building activities - Trainer-facilitated large group discussions