Quality and Quantity in EVS, the role of the promoters

In 2016, the European Voluntary Service (EVS) celebrated its 20th anniversary, and this is an opportunity for the promoters of this program to make an evaluation of their role, their methods and the impact of their actions, in order to lay solid foundations for the purpose of moving forward in improving the quality in the management of all the aspects related to Evs volunteers hosting or sending. On one hand the European Commission considers the EVS as one of the most significant springboards for social and economic insertion of young people. At the moment, there are 4799 organizations accredited as EVS promoters in Europe and other eligible countries. On the other hand, many and various complaints have been expressed by volunteers, coordinating, hosting and sending organizations regarding various aspects of the EVS management such budget management issues, lack of resources, insufficient preparation and follow, confusions between the figure of mentor and activity supervisor, and many others. Facing the actual conjuncture, the program countries tend to push the promoters to increase the number of mobilities for young people, particularly long-term ones. This practice generated a “golden opportunity” effect for a growing number of organisations, to the detriment of the quality and interest of the only real beneficiaries: the young people. We believe that quality and quantity can be compatible if the promoters keep in mind, during the project cycle management and the implementation, the values and principles that are the motives of non-profit making organisations in their action for the only community benefit. Thus a four-day training course will enable us to raise a discussion about the issue of a better EVS management, based on exchange of experiences and good practices, in order to lay the foundations for the creation of a manual.