← Back to other ESC opportunities

 

Volunteer at InterAktion

About

InterAktion – Verein für ein interkulturelles Zusammenleben is a non-profit organisation based in Austria working in the fields of youth work, adult education, social inclusion, intercultural dialogue and European cooperation.

Since 2015, we have been creating learning opportunities that bring people together, strengthen participation and support personal and professional development.

Our work combines local community and educational activities with young people with fewer opportunities in Graz with youth exchanges, training courses and youth camps in Trofaiach within the Erasmus+ programme.

Inclusion, human rights, sustainability and active participation are at the heart of our work. We aim to create welcoming and accessible spaces where young people can learn from each other, develop new skills, share experiences and become more actively involved in their communities.

Our activities take place mainly in Graz and Trofaiach, while our projects also bring together participants and partner organisations from different parts of Europe.

Our Work with Young People

A central part of InterAktion's work is supporting young people with fewer opportunities. We cooperate with different institutions in Graz and organise workshops and educational activities on topics that are relevant to young people's lives.

Our workshops cover topics such as:

• Mental health and mental well-being
• Sustainability
• Active citizenship and participation
• Social inclusion
• Intercultural dialogue
• Personal development and life skills

The activities are designed to create safe spaces where young people can express themselves, exchange experiences, learn new things and become more confident in participating in their communities.

The volunteer will not work in one fixed location. Depending on the activities and projects, you will join our team at different locations throughout Graz. You will also have the opportunity to participate in activities in Trofaiach, including workshops and youth camps that take place at least twice a year.

Our Team

Our team consists of experienced youth workers who are passionate about creating meaningful connections with young people.

We work with empathy, humour and flexibility and value trust and authenticity in our relationships. As an ESC volunteer, you will become part of the team and will be supported in finding your own role within the organisation.

We encourage open communication, reflection and the exchange of ideas. Your perspective, interests and cultural background are welcome, and we are always open to learning from each other.

Role of an ESC Volunteer at InterAktion

As a volunteer, you will be a valuable part of our team and involved in different aspects of our daily work.

Your main tasks may include:

• Supporting the team in organising and implementing workshops with young people with fewer opportunities
• Helping to prepare and run workshops on topics such as mental health, well-being, sustainability and active participation
• Supporting the organisation of small events and educational activities
• Assisting with activities and projects in Graz and Trofaiach
• Bringing in your own ideas, interests and culture
• Sharing your knowledge and skills with young people
• Creating and leading a small personal project with the support of the team

The exact activities will depend on the current projects, the needs of the target group and your own interests and skills.

We encourage volunteers to take initiative and gradually develop their own ideas while always having the support of the InterAktion team.

Who We Are Looking For

We are looking for a motivated and open-minded person who is genuinely interested in working with young people, especially young people from vulnerable or disadvantaged backgrounds.

The ideal volunteer is:

• A student or graduate in psychology, social work, pedagogy or a related field
• Motivated to work with young people with fewer opportunities
• Responsible and reliable
• Communicative, friendly and positive
• Comfortable working as part of a team
• Interested in creativity, inclusion and youth participation
• Willing to learn, reflect and develop new skills
• Open to different perspectives and cultural backgrounds
• Motivated to contribute their own ideas and initiative
• Able to communicate in German at least at an intermediate level

You do not need to have extensive professional experience. Motivation, openness, reliability and a genuine interest in working with young people are essential.

Work and Living Conditions

The volunteer will be based in Graz, Austria.

Accommodation is provided in a student dormitory in Graz, in a single room in a shared flat.

A bicycle is provided for getting around the city. Graz has a well-developed cycling infrastructure, making it easy to reach many places by bike. Public transport is also available.

As an ESC volunteer, you receive:

• €330 food allowance per month
• €210 pocket money per month
• Travel and visa costs covered according to the ESC programme rules
• One German language course
• Accommodation in Graz
• A bicycle for local mobility

Training and Support

Volunteers take part in the official On-Arrival Training and Mid-Term Training provided by the Austrian National Agency.

You will also receive a German language course and continuous support from experienced youth workers throughout your volunteering period.

As part of the InterAktion team, you will have regular opportunities to discuss your experiences, questions and ideas with the team. We want our volunteers to feel supported while also developing their own initiative and independence.

Starting Date

November/December 2026

Duration

9–12 months

Application Deadline

12 November 2026