Would you like to live in France for a while, improve your French and get to know young people from all over the world while living in the country?
Our French partner organization Solidarités Jeunesses is looking for volunteers for long-term voluntary services through the European Solidarity Corps .
Solidarités Jeunesses welcomes international volunteers throughout the year in local projects called 'Délégations'. The Délégations are mainly located in rural areas and are housed in historical local places, for example a former factory, a former communal campsite, a village house or a castle. The houses have been renovated over the years by many volunteers and permanent staff who live and work there together.
When?
From September 2026 (dates flexible)
Where?
The Centre de Beaumotte was founded in 1979 and is an informal educational association in the Franche-Comté region. The centre’s aim is to support people with fewer opportunities and encourage them to take responsibility for their own lives.
One of the most important tasks for the centre’s staff and volunteers is to participate in the day-to-day interactions that arise when people from different social and cultural backgrounds live together. Around 20 people live and work at the centre, with a further 10 coming to work during the day. The centre accommodates young people and adults who are facing social and professional challenges, often struggle to find their feet in society and may not receive support from their families.
Interaction between the volunteers and the centre’s residents is extremely important, and together we focus on carrying out specific projects around the centre and in neighbouring villages. In addition, the Beaumotte Centre organises various cultural events throughout the year, such as concerts, theatre performances and workshops...
The Project
The centre hosts eight international volunteers at any one time. As a volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of the people at the centre, learn French and discover French culture. From time to time, you’ll work alongside young people from the region on local projects. During your time here, you will also have the opportunity to lead one or two international work camps and take part in events such as training sessions and general assemblies.
Specific tasks at the centre include:
- Renovating local heritage sites (fountains, old wash houses, painting flats, etc.),
- Renovating the centre (bricklaying, carpentry, etc.),
- Gardening (planting, watering, composting, etc.),
- Helping out in the communal kitchen (daily cooking, menu planning),
- Supervising groups (logistics for welcoming guests, preparing workshops) and
- Assisting with administrative and logistical work in the office.
You can find more information about the project in Beaumotte here.
Conditions of participation
Volunteering through the European Solidarity Corps is open to all young people aged 18-30. Of course you should be motivated for the project. A driver's license is strongly recommended in all projects as they take place in rural areas.
Apart from that, Solidarités Jeunesses works on the principle that the differences between people are an opportunity to learn, discover and grow from each other. Therefore, everyone is welcome, regardless of origin, gender, sexual orientation or world view.
What does participation cost?
Participation is free. The program is funded by the European Commission. You will be provided with lodging, meals, medical insurance, and round trip tickets (up to the maximum amount allowed by the program) for the duration of your stay. You will also receive a small amount of pocket money.
Apply now
To apply, you need the application form and a letter of motivation.
No special qualifications are required for the projects, so your text is used to assess the motivation to participate in a specific project. It's an opportunity for you to express why you want to volunteer in a rural area with people from different countries and backgrounds. Your letter of motivation must relate to the specific project you are applying for.
Lukas is at your disposal for all questions about ESC voluntary services and the application:
Send an email: outgoing@ibg-workcamps.org