What is the Italian Universal Civil Service and why to apply?
The Italian Universal Civil Service is a programme that helps young people become active citizens while growing personally and professionally. By working on projects that support communities, participants gain valuable skills and make a positive impact. The programme promotes values like solidarity, inclusion, and civic engagement, helping to build a fairer and more involved society. It offers young volunteers the chance to contribute to community-driven projects and take part in meaningful activities that foster a sense of purpose and responsibility.
In 2024, young people who volunteered at ALDA had the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects across three key departments: Project Design, Communication, Project Management. Each area offered diverse challenges and learning opportunities, enabling participants to develop professionally while making a meaningful impact on their communities.
To inspire and guide those considering applying, we have gathered their testimonies to share insights into their experiences. The 2024 Universal Civil Service Call for Applications is now open, with the deadline set for February 18, 2025 at 14:00. Below, you will find the volunteers’ reflections on their journeys and the opportunities this programme offers.
Are you between the ages of 18 and 28?
You can participate in civil service if you are an Italian citizen, a citizen of another EU member state, or a non-EU citizen legally residing in Italy.
Our Volunteers’ Experiences
Through the Italian Universal Civil Service abroad I had the opportunity to train at ALDA in the Programs development and fundraising department. My work consists mainly in researching and monitoring European and international calls for proposals (especially in the Middle East and North Africa) and in designing, developing and writing projects.
So far, I have learnt a lot about project cycle management, the functioning of a large organisation and the relationship between ALDA and its members and project partners. I have also acquired good project-writing, organisational and management skills.
During my experience in Strasbourg, I have had the opportunity to participate in local and international events and projects, which has also given me experience in project management. I believe that this is a good experience of personal and professional growth for young people who want to approach the issues of local development and citizen participation. I recommend embracing both the positive and negative aspects of the experience, and never forgetting to believe in yourself and follow your dreams!
Elisabetta, Project Designer Assistant
I am a Communication Officer Assistant and joined ALDA’s office in Strasbourg in July 2024 through the Universal Civil Service programme. My main tasks include supporting the department in creating social media content, newsletter, updating the website, and providing communication support during events. This experience has helped me improve my digital skills and gradually become more independent in carrying out these activities. Working closely with other departments has been particularly rewarding, as it offers different perspectives and makes the work more dynamic. In September 2024, I had the opportunity to participate in a project and to support its communication activities, which was an incredibly fulfilling experience.
To anyone considering this opportunity, I would say that the beginning might feel a bit challenging, but with the support provided by your supervisors, you’ll find your rhythm and feel more comfortable. This experience is not just about work; it’s also about meeting wonderful people and sharing my journey with them. For me, it has been an opportunity for incredible growth, and I am truly grateful to have taken this step.
Simona, Communication Officer Assistant
My experience as a Civil Service Volunteer with ALDA, especially working in the Project Management Department, has been highly interesting and stimulating so far.
As a Project Manager Assistant, my main role is to help implement various projects, especially for young people, as I work in the Youth Empowerment & Education Hub. One aspect that I really enjoy about this role is that it always varies as it depends a lot on the particular project we are implementing at the moment. Therefore, my tasks are always very different and I can learn new things every time. I can be involved in the logistics and communication of an event, liaising with other partners or even planning a particular activity. In this way, even the daily office routine can be stimulating because I am challenged and can improve my skills in different areas.
One aspect that can be incredibly attractive is that, as a project manager, you also have the opportunity to travel from time to time. As most of the projects we partner on are international, there are often meetings or project activities that take place in other countries. For example, I had the opportunity to help organise and then actively participate in The Future We Want project, which was an unforgettable experience. For two weeks, I travelled with the participants in a bus, stopping in different cities in four European countries and running a street campaign to raise awareness about the harmful effects of fast fashion on the environment. I would recommend this role to someone who is very active and likes to be in contact with a lot of people, someone who is willing to learn new things in different areas and to face new challenges every day.
My advice to future volunteers would be: “Don’t get discouraged if at the beginning you feel like you don’t know anything about how to manage a project and everyone seems to know a lot more than you. Be patient and try to learn as much as you can from the people around you. One day you will look back and realise how much you have grown, both professionally and personally”.
Alice, Project Manager Assistant
The Universal Civil Service empowers young people to grow, learn, and make a difference, giving them the tools to become active citizens and contribute to a more inclusive, engaged, and sustainable society.
Your Impact Starts Now – Apply Here!