What challenges do volunteers face in rural areas and how can communities better support them?
That question guided a two-day interregional event on 9–10 September in Sofia and Svishtov, Bulgaria, where KMOP joined representatives from Bulgarian government institutions, youth organisations, universities, civil society, and volunteers from across seven European regions. Participants exchanged knowledge and shared practices on how volunteering can be strengthened in rural areas, aiming to inform policy development for youth engagement. The event was organised within the framework of the YESVolunteer project, a European initiative fostering youth volunteering as a tool for personal and professional development.
Policy and national frameworks at a glance
The meeting opened with greeting remarks from Mr. Peter Mladenov, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, who presented the progress of a draft law volunteering. Currently under discussion in the Bulgarian Parliament, the law seeks to establish a structured framework that recognises the contribution of volunteers and supports their engagement across the country.
Participants also learned about the network of Bulgarian Youth Centres, which provide spaces for skills development, civic participation, and community engagement, particularly for young people with fewer opportunities.
From personal journeys to collective practices
Beyond institutional perspectives, the event placed a strong focus on the experiences of volunteers. Young people shared how volunteering had shaped their personal development, boosted their employability, and opened pathways for active participation in their communities.
Workshops showcased good practices from each participating region, offering stakeholders the chance to engage in dialogue and learn how different models of volunteering are implemented and sustained across Europe.
Experiencing volunteering in action
Participants had the opportunity to explore the Svishtov Youth ecosystem and the House of Volunteers in Vardim. They gained insight into how unused or underutilised rural spaces can be transformed into vibrant hubs for community life and youth engagement. Meeting with both local and international volunteers, participants witnessed firsthand how grassroots initiatives are creating opportunities and strengthening rural communities.
Our participation in the study visit reflects KMOP’s ongoing collaboration with European regions to promote evidence-based policies for youth. By connecting practice with local needs and action, we aim to show how volunteering can drive meaningful and lasting community development.
Find out more insights about how we foster youth professional and personal development through volunteering by exploring our newest factsheet here.