The main topic of the webinar was volunteering in rural communities, with a special focus on challenges and future perspectives. The event gathered representatives of civil society organizations, volunteers, researchers, and policymakers from various European countries. The goal of the webinar was to identify key challenges in volunteering, analyze its benefits, and propose strategies for the sustainability of volunteer work in rural areas. Programs supporting volunteer work were presented, and different approaches to organizing volunteer activities were analyzed. The discussion covered the benefits of volunteering, such as strengthening communities, skill development, and fostering solidarity. Special attention was given to attracting and retaining volunteers, especially young people, as well as measures to better promote volunteering. Challenges faced by volunteers were also examined, along with proposals for more flexible engagement. Additionally, the long-term sustainability of volunteer work was discussed through succession planning and mentoring as ways to transfer knowledge and experience to new generations of volunteers.
This webinar provided valuable insights into volunteering in rural communities and enabled participants to exchange experiences with experts and colleagues from different countries. It offered concrete solutions for improving volunteer activities, as well as an opportunity for networking and developing new initiatives. Participants gained new knowledge and received practical guidelines that they can apply in their work, thus contributing to the sustainability and strengthening of volunteer programs in rural areas.
The event was attended by a member of the project team, Assistant Bojana Matković, with the aim of gaining insight into the challenges and perspectives of volunteering in rural communities, as well as strategies that can contribute to the sustainability of volunteer work.
Picture 1. Introduction Presentation: Volunteering Strategy for Ireland
Picture 2. Aoife O’Brien – Department of Rural and Community Development
Picture 3. Presentation: Community Volunteers Programme – Vicki O’Connell – Volunteer Ireland
Picture 4. Lejla Šehić Reljić – Centre for European Volunteering (CEV)
