ESC Volunteering at the Hungary Helps Agency

Spend a year volunteering in Budapest! Join a vibrant, international community-building program – supported by the European Solidarity Corps (ESC)!

What is the ESC programme all about?
The European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is an EU initiative offering young people aged 18–30 the chance to engage in meaningful, funded volunteer work that makes a real impact — all while promoting solidarity, community building, and social responsibility. Through the ESC programme coordinated by Hungary Helps Agency, you can support Christian scholarship students studying in Hungary, take part in organizing cultural and community events, and contribute to communication and outreach — all in an international, value-driven environment.

We're looking for two new volunteers for the upcoming period! Below you’ll find all the key information: details about the programme, the tasks you can take on, how to apply – and insights from our former volunteers.

Duration: 365 days (Long-term individual volunteering)
Looking for: 2 volunteers
Application deadline: 15.07.2025 (applications are accepted on a rolling basis)
Start date: From 01.08.2025
Location: Budapest, Hungary
Tasks: A variety of exciting roles! (event planning, program coordination, communication, relationship management with the applicants and scholarship holders)

What will you be doing as a volunteer?
Our volunteers support the organization of cultural and community events for Christian scholarship students and contribute to the work of the Hungary Helps Agency.
The Scholarship Programme for Christian Young People (SCYP) is a unique initiative launched by the Hungarian Government to support young people from persecuted Christian communities in pursuing higher education in Hungary. The aim is to empower them to return home and become key contributors to rebuilding and strengthening their communities. In the 2025/2026 academic year, students are expected to arrive from 14 countries, including Chad, Ghana, Lebanon, Iraq, Palestine, Pakistan, Syria, Armenia, Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Nicaragua.
The program is implemented by the Hungary Helps Agency in cooperation with the the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade - State Secretariat for the Aid of Persecuted Christians. And you can be part of the journey-- helping these students feel at home in a new country. This one year will give you unforgettable memories and lasting friendships!
You can be part of helping these young people truly feel at home here. Over the course of a year, you’ll gain experiences and build connections that will stay with you for a lifetime! You’ll have the chance to try out different roles based on your skills and interests – from event planning and communication to international outreach.

  • Help our scholarship holders settle in, build community, and organize awesome programs – all in a vibrant, international environment. This year will be just as life-changing for you as it is for them! Expect lots of new friendships, cultural discovery, and inspiring experiences.
  • Take part in organizing the scholarship welcome event in September – help us kick off the year in style!
  • Plan and run regular cultural and social events for the students in Budapest and other cities across Hungary.
  • Manage our communication channels – keep our Facebook groups and websites updated so everyone stays informed.
  • Support the general operation of the scholarship program – get involved behind the scenes.
  • Reconnect with alumni – help us map and strengthen our network of former students.
  • Handle basic administrative tasks – don’t worry, we’ll be there to guide and support you every step of the way!

Who are we looking for? Maybe you?

  • Aged 18–30, from an EU or partner country
  • English at conversational level (Hungarian is a bonus!)
  • Great organizational skills and not afraid to take initiative
  • A good communicator who enjoys connecting with others
  • Open-minded, eager to learn and grow
  • A team player who can also work independently
  • Full of ideas, creative, precise and proactive


What do we offer our volunteers?

  • Fully equipped, friendly shared flat in central Budapest
  • Daily allowance of 7 EUR
  • Monthly food allowance
  • Travel reimbursement (Travel costs to and from Hungary are covered based on ESC distance calculator.)
  • Monthly public transport pass in Budapest
  • Health insurance
  • Free language learning opportunities
  • National Agency-organized training sessions during your stay
  • Ongoing professional and personal support
  • Youthpass certificate – officially recognizing all the skills and knowledge you gain here

Why join us?
Because this is more than just volunteering – it’s a meaningful experience and a chance to grow on every level:
  • A welcoming and inclusive environment where you’ll feel at home
  • A diverse international setting – work with Christian students from the Middle East and Africa, offering a real cultural experience!
  • Supportive colleagues – we’ve got your back, always
  • Valuable experience in a well-respected, government-backed program – and the chance to learn more about our development projects in the countries where our students come from

Want to apply? Here’s how to get started:
  1. If yes, find a sending organisation that can support you with the administrative process.
  1. If you need help finding a suitable sending organisation, feel free to reach out to us – we’ll be happy to assist you with the next steps!
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How to apply?

Send your CV with a photo and a motivation letter to esc@hungaryhelps.gov.hu.

Please include “Application for ESC volunteering programme” in the subject line.
Our volunteers said
format_quoteVolunteering was a truly meaningful experience for me: it gave me the opportunity to become more open-minded and to discover new perspectives. I especially enjoyed being trusted, working creatively, and being part of a cohesive community. I didn’t just help others — I learned a lot and grew as a person. I gained experiences that will remain significant for me in the long term.
Andrea Lőrincz
volunteer during the 2023–2024 period
format_quoteWorking with the SCYP team was one of the most rewarding experiences during my time in Hungary. I had the chance to be part of a supportive and friendly work community, take on creative and meaningful tasks, and contribute to a cause I truly believe in. If you’re looking to be involved in something purposeful and inspiring, I highly recommend applying.
Tamás Lehel Keresztes
volunteer during the 2024–2025 period
format_quoteI really enjoyed volunteering at the Hungary Helps, a professional humanitarian agency. I learned a lot about how such an organization operates and contributes to global aid efforts. It was especially great to connect with university students from different cultures, which gave me direct insights into their backgrounds and traditions.
Erik Sörös
volunteer during the 2024–2025 period

About Hungary Helps Program

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