My first Magazine handbook for better quality in evs projects_eu_eec | Page 32

Do the volunteers need to know the language of the host country?
The selection of volunteers should not be made according to language skills, unless a basic knowledge is needed for a
specific task. Linguistic support is provided during the EVS project in order to ensure the volunteers’ integration.
Will the volunteers get any training during EVS project?
Sending and hosting organisations jointly assure the participation of their volunteers in a series of training events during
an EVS project: pre-departure training, on-arrival training, mid-term evaluation and, if possible, a final evaluation
session. Each type of training has several subjects useful or necessary to deal with before and during the service period:
Basics of social engagement and voluntary work, intercultural learning, conflict resolution, group dynamics, rights and
responsibilities, etc. On-arrival training and mid-term evaluation are promoted by National Agencies or Erasmus+
Offices.
Will the volunteers get some certificate after the project?
All volunteers who have completed their EVS project (or at least half of it) are entitled to receive a certificate called
Youthpass. The certificate consists of two parts: an attestation issued by the sending National Agency or the
Commission and an "annex to the certificate" filled in by the host organisation together with the volunteer.
Are there deadlines for the presentation of the projects?
Yes, there are three deadlines for the presentation of an EVS project in Europe: February, April and October.
Can the volunteer change project if anything goes wrong?
Sometimes things can go wrong during a voluntary service. Nothing and nobody is perfect. Misunderstandings or lack of
communication can make a service period difficult. Communication is however the key to solve a really difficult situation
sometimes. Changing a project should be the last option, if nothing else works. Before taking any decision you should
discuss your difficulties with your partner organisations and contact your National Agency if it is necessary.
Is it possible to prolong a project?
In principle it is not possible to prolong an EVS project. However, if the expected results of the projects can only be
achieved through a prolongation and if both the sending and hosting National Agencies agree on a prolongation up to
twelve months, an exception can be made. A short-term EVS project (up to six months) might be prolonged once for the
same volunteer.
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