Vereinigung Junger Freiwilliger e.V.

The Vereinigung Junger Freiwilliger e.V. (VJF) is a non-profit organization that has been recognized as a free sponsor for international youth work both domestically and abroad since its founding in March 1990.

• International Workcamps: The VJF organizes about 35 international workcamps annually, primarily in the new federal states, as well as in over 70 countries worldwide. These projects provide young people with the opportunity to participate in short-term volunteer projects and experience intercultural learning[1][2][4].
• Voluntary Ecological Year (FÖJ): The association is a recognized sponsor of the FÖJ in Berlin and offers about 85 young people annually the opportunity to engage in ecological and environmental policy and to orient themselves professionally[2][3][4].
• European Solidarity Corps (ESK) and weltwärts: The VJF places young people in projects of the ESK and the weltwärts program, which promote development policy and solidarity engagement in Europe and worldwide[1][3][4].
• Project and Meeting Place: In Berlin-Grünau, the VJF operates a project and meeting place that serves as a meeting point for volunteer meetings, alternative language courses, and holiday activities for school classes and large families[1][3][4].

The VJF sees itself as a community of people who are connected to the solidarity and humanistic ideals of the international volunteer movement. Its mission includes promoting international understanding, peace, and a healthy environment through national and international youth encounters. The personal development of volunteers through informal and non-formal learning experiences is a central focus[1][2][3].

The VJF is committed to sustainable and responsible projects that support both the local population and the volunteers. The projects focus on areas such as sustainability, childcare, social issues, management/fundraising, English teaching, and ecology. Through intercultural exchange and joint global learning, the VJF promotes the competencies of volunteers and strengthens the local community[1][2][3].