Support for people with disabilities
Essentiel asbl is a non-profit organization in Belgium whose aim is to accompany adults with disabilities (regardless of the type or degree of disability) in all aspects of their daily life and self-development.
The organization offers a place of residence and accommodation for up to 30 residents with varying degrees of disabilities.
The organisation is looking for international volunteers from October 1st, 2026.
Your tasks
The volunteers are involved in the daily life of Essentiel. The aim of Essentiel's activities is to help people with disabilities have a more varied everyday life and to integrate them more fully into society. The place is full of activity and attracts a larger audience than just the people who live on site.
L’Essential takes a “pro-autonomy” approach. This means that it is important to take the resident's will and wishes into account when building a relationship with him/her. Even in daily activities, it is always important to motivate residents to participate, but it is always up to them whether they do or not.
There is a day care where workshops are organized for the residents, but which is also open to young people and adults staying in nearby centers, as well as to children and young people in need of help. The offer includes, for example, exercise or outdoor courses.
Also on site is the “Halte-Répit” service, which provides temporary care for children for families in need of a break, as well as an inclusive kindergarten, managed by another non-profit organization, which accommodates 20 children with or without disabilities.
Accommodation
You live in a shared apartment in Genappe, a town that is 20 to 30 minutes by car from the center.
In Genappe there are several grocery stores within walking distance of the apartment. The organization can provide you with a car to get to and from work (so at least two of the three volunteers must have a driving license). Each volunteer has his/her own room. There is also a common room. Three other ESK volunteers live right next door (they work in the organization “Le Monty”).
Your profile
You are 18 to 30 years old and...
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open-minded, curious, enthusiastic and empathetic;
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able to work in a team, with different target groups and in a multicultural environment;
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willing to learn French;
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interested in working with people with disabilities;
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willing to make suggestions, take initiative, discuss and express your opinions;
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Flexible in terms of working hours that do not correspond to a classic 'timetable'.
Before you start volunteering, you must be able to provide a copy of your police clearance certificate. You also need a valid driver's license.
Conditions of Participation
Participation in the European Solidarity Corps is free. The project is open to all motivated young people between the ages of 18 and 30 who want to volunteer and work in the area of inclusion and youth work, regardless of nationality, religion, ideology, degree or professional experience.
Apply now!
Here you can apply for the project directly to our colleagues at CBB.
If you have any questions about ESC volunteer services and how to apply for them, Lukas will be happy to help you:
Email: outgoing@ibg-workcamps.org