Humanity in Action: The Power of Unity Through Volunteer Work

As part of the three-year project “Humanitarian Volunteering for Solidarity Activities” under the European Solidarity Corps program, which began in early 2024, Philanthropy the Foundation of the Serbian Orthodox Church is engaging international volunteers to contribute to the foundation’s ongoing humanitarian efforts. The project is implemented in cooperation with partner organizations: ADRA Czech Republic, ADRA Slovakia, ADRA Zambia, ADRA Serbia, Uganda Pioneers’ Association, Ecumenical Humanitarian Organization, Merhamet Sandžak, and Philanthropy.

One of the currently active volunteers is Ertan from Turkey, whose dedicated and involved in a daily impact on the lives of beneficiaries. Ertan is based in Kragujevac, where he takes part in the activities of the Shelter for Adults and Elderly Persons "St. Joachim and Anne." This facility aims to support individuals facing life crises, people without homes, and the elderly. The shelter has a capacity for ten benefitiaries and provides them with basic living needs, healthcare, and emotional support. It operates in collaboration with the local Center for Social Work.

Ertan has been in Kragujevac since October 2024 and participates daily in creative workshops, walks, games, and conversations with the shelter’s benefitiaries.

"People in Kragujevac are truly hospitable and kind. This is a city of nature—I absolutely love it. That’s why I take daily walks in the park with the residents of the shelter. We also play cards and often organize creative workshops there," shared Ertan.

In addition to his volunteer activities, Ertan completed training on the phases and implementation of humanitarian projects with the project coordinator. He also had the opportunity to visit rural areas and be involved in activities cunducted in remote areas, as part of the “SAVE” project, which includes providing home assistance to the elderly and provision of medical checkups in those remote areas. Reflecting on one such experience, Ertan shared an emotional insight: "Although I didn’t do much work, my stay in a small Serbian village opened my eyes. Simply being there, observing people’s lives, and sharing simple moments inspired deep respect. Sometimes it’s not about what you do—but what you take away from just being present."

During the project, a total of 24 volunteers are expected to be engaged, supporting activities across host countries. As a certified organization for working with volunteers, Philanthropy will engage three volunteers during the project period and is currently in the process of selecting two additional volunteers for the upcoming phase.

Volunteering holds tremendous value not only for the communities being supported but also for the volunteers themselves. Through volunteer engagement, young people gain practical experience, develop empathy, learn teamwork and responsibility, and are exposed to diverse cultures and ways of life. Encouraging youth to become involved in the civil and non-governmental sector is particularly important, as such participation fosters active citizenship, drives positive change, and builds a more united and compassionate society. Volunteering is not just an act of giving—it is also an opportunity for personal growth, meaningful connections, and the creation of a better world for all.

The “Humanitarian Volunteering for Solidarity Activities” project not only provides tangible support but also builds bridges of understanding, solidarity, and shared humanity.