The Volunteer Diaconal Year Program Office (ÖDE) has more than 25 years of experience in coordinating short-term and long-term volunteer services.
Through the European Solidarity Corps volunteering projects, young people interested in volunteer service have the opportunity to participate in the work of various organizations engaged in social activities. By contributing their time and skills, volunteers serve the wider community and take part in meaningful solidarity activities that also support personal growth and self-awareness.
The mission of the ÖDE Program Office is to encourage young people and adults aged 18–30 to participate in short-term and long-term volunteer service, enabling them to carry out meaningful work that is pleasing to God and serves the needs of vulnerable communities during their period of service.
We believe that through volunteering, participants can grow closer to God, gain a deeper understanding of the world around them, and discover more about themselves. The ÖDE Program Office supports volunteers in developing their talents and encourages the selfless cooperation of individuals, cultures, and communities in Christ.
Accessibility and Preparation
For young people applying from partner countries participating in our international programs, a host organization in Hungary provides the place of service, while the ÖDE Program Office arranges accommodation, pocket money, and the reimbursement of travel-related expenses.
For volunteers from Hungary applying to serve abroad, following the successful evaluation of their application, we establish contact with the host organization and volunteer coordinating organization in the destination country. These partners provide the place of service, accommodation, pocket money, and support with travel expenses within the framework of the program.
The ÖDE Program Office also plays an important role in preparing volunteers, organizing their travel, and maintaining continuous communication and support throughout their period of service.
Duration of Volunteer Service
Participants can apply for:
- Short-term volunteering: 0–2 months
- Long-term volunteering: 2–12 months
Ecumenical Partner Network – EDYN
Across Europe, we maintain partnerships with numerous sister churches and organizations. We primarily coordinate volunteers within the framework of the Ecumenical Diaconal Year Network (EDYN).
Knowledge Base – What Can You Learn During the Program?
Applicants receive all the necessary information and support—from practical guidance to spiritual encouragement—before departure, during their service, and after completing their activities.
After finishing their volunteer service, participants are invited to join the network of former ÖDE volunteers, where hundreds of alumni can share their experiences and continue building connections with one another.
Based on feedback from participants, the Volunteer Diaconal Year is not only an exciting international experience but also an opportunity for a meaningful personal and spiritual journey. During their months abroad, volunteers develop personally, gain intercultural and ecumenical experiences, become more independent, strengthen their cooperation and solidarity skills, improve their language abilities, and grow in confidence in everyday life.
Quality Label
In February 2022, our organization received the Quality Label of the European Solidarity Corps for its coordinating and supporting roles.
Organizations holding this Quality Label are eligible to apply for further support within the framework of European Solidarity Corps projects. Our Quality Label, which received the maximum possible score, confirms that our organization has the necessary capacity to coordinate volunteers, host participants, and send volunteers abroad.
The Quality Label is valid until 31 December 2027. Through our current project, we are able to coordinate volunteers for Hungarian host organizations until 31 July 2026, as well as support the services of foreign—primarily church-based—organizations through volunteer placements.
Application – Become an ÖDE Volunteer!
For further information, visit the website of the Volunteer Diaconal Year Program Office:
https://odeprogramiroda.hu/
