“Volunteer Action as a social response for an including Europe” event was part of the InclusEU project, held in Molfetta, Italy from June 24 to 27, 2024, coordinated by the organization Associazione InCo Molfetta APS. The event brought together around 55 participants from 8 countries (Spain, Italy, The Netherlands, Romania, Poland, Ireland, Portugal, and Hungary) to explore the important role of volunteerism in promoting social inclusion and community engagement.
The event’s key activities included a public conference, interactive workshops, and cultural activities. The conference featured presentations from various local volunteering organizations, including 2hands Molfetta, which focuses on environmental protection, and Appoggiati a Me, which works with children with disabilities. Local authorities, such as the Municipality of Molfetta, also highlighted the importance of volunteerism in fostering community cohesion.
Workshops explored the theme “Inclusion through Volunteerism,” where participants collaborated to design volunteer-driven projects aimed at addressing community challenges. They were also introduced to the European Solidarity Corps program, which offers volunteering opportunities across Europe.
Throughout the event, participants were immersed in the vibrant local culture, visiting Molfetta’s historical sites and engaging in activities like a mozzarella-making workshop. The event also featured a beach sports session, showcasing the role of aquatic volunteering organizations in the region.
This event emphasized inclusivity by using non-gendered language and ensuring all participants could engage meaningfully, regardless of gender. The activities fostered dialogue, shared learning, and practical collaboration for future volunteerism and inclusion-focused initiatives across Europe.
By the end of the event, participants not only gained valuable insights into volunteerism’s role in addressing social issues but also formed lasting connections with organizations and individuals dedicated to creating inclusive communities.
