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Better Together – Volunteering in Poland Experience Report by Andrea Török
Everything truly is better together!
My name is Andi, I’m a 24-year-old from Székelyudvarhely (Romania), and thanks to the European Solidarity Corps program, I had the chance to take part in an amazing one-month volunteering experience. Together with nine other volunteers, we spent a month helping people struggling with mental health issues and supporting the organization of a festival in the spiritual city of Częstochowa, home of the Black Madonna.
Volunteers came from all over Europe – including Spain, Italy, Ireland and France. I represented Romania, more specifically the youth of Transylvania, through the ATA organization. We volunteered at Oczami Brata, where our daily tasks included visiting the center for people with mental health challenges, getting to know the incredibly warm-hearted and dedicated residents, and brightening their day with our presence and small improvised activities. One day we sang together, another day we cooked traditional lasagna, we went painting in the city park, and even shopping.
Besides the fun and laughter, we also gained insight into various developmental activities, which are extremely beneficial for them and make everyday integration easier. For me, it was very meaningful to see how seriously this topic is taken in Poland. It inspired me to be more attentive at home as well when someone needs support and to learn how to best connect with those in need.
The highlight of our volunteering was the eFKA alternative music festival, where people struggling with mental health issues could walk through the city in a parade (there was even a brass band – yay!), and enjoy theatre, comedy and musical performances. We helped with both the preparation and follow-up work, so we got to peek behind the scenes and experience what festival organizing is really about.
We also represented this wonderful organization at an event called Family Picnic, where families from Częstochowa came together to connect. There were plenty of cool and entertaining activities for children, giving us yet another perspective of the city.
In the final days, we met local high school students at two events (one held in a school and the other a more informal gathering in a café). We shared our experiences and encouraged them to start volunteering – locally or internationally. We told them how much this program and our previous experiences have given us emotionally. I felt that we managed to truly reach them.
Thanks to this program, I came home not only with fridge magnets, but also with lots of experience and knowledge, new friendships, wonderful memories, and a touch of better self-awareness. My heart is full of gratitude for having lived all of this!
