Volunteering conference “VÕTA VABALT!” 2026

THE “VÕTA VABALT!” VOLUNTEER FAIR IS BACK!
Where will you invest your time?

The Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps Agency is organising “Võta Vabalt!” for the second year in a row! 

Time is your most valuable asset. But where should you invest it? “Võta Vabalt!” will show you how many amazing possibilities exist that help you devote time to yourself, your community and your future. We will bring the opportunities; all you have to do is show up. 

Where do you invest your free time? 

Want to gain new experiences and practical skills alongside school or university? 

Want to meet people, try something completely new and discover what volunteering gives back to you? 

Thinking about your next step, a gap year, or a chance to experience life abroad? 

Want to change something for the better in your community or the world, but don’t know where to start? 

Our aim is to help you answer these questions and show what volunteering is all about. Whether you want to do something for your community, add work experience you your CV, or have unforgettable experiences abroad and make new friends – we got you covered! 

On stage you’ll find young volunteers as well as specialists and leaders in the field, who got to where they are today through volunteering. 

FAIR AREA 

At the fair area, well-known organisations that co-operate with volunteers shall present their work and opportunities for people looking to volunteer. Among them:  

Estonian National Youth Council (ENL); MTÜ (Non-Profit Organisation) Shokkin Group; MTÜ Noortekonverentsid; MTÜ Vanem Vend, Vanem Õde; Tallinn Food Bank; Mondo; Estonian Scout Association; Integration Foundation; MTÜ EstYES; MTÜ UUSKASUTUSKESKUS; MTÜ YFU Eesti; Kodutütred ja Noored Kotkad; MTÜ Animal Shelters; Estonian Rescue Services Agency; TYPA MTÜ; Tallinn City Centre’s Youth Centre; ETHOS MTÜ; MTÜ CATS HELP; Order of Malta Foundation in Estonia, and many others. 

SEMINAR PROGRAMME

11:00 | FAIR OPENING 

12.00–12:45 | “Time is an investment – ​​what do you get back from volunteering?”

Four people share their honest thoughts on what volunteering has brought to their lives – what people, skills, opportunities and new perspectives they have found and how volunteering has influenced their lives so far. In the conversation, we will look for an answer to the most important question: why is it worth investing your time in volunteering. 

13:15–14:00 | “Volunteer abroad? Why not!”

Three young people, one binding experience… European Solidarity Corps voluntary service abroad. In the discussion, they will share their first-hand experiences of what it is like to 

a) go to Iceland as a long-term volunteer 

b) or to do short-term group service 

c) or to be a volunteer abroad in Estonia yourself

14:30–15:15 | “From idea to reality – youth initiatives and project opportunities”

Volunteering does not only mean helping some organization. Another option is to do something yourself in the form of a project! Three brilliant people have been invited to the panel, who have done just that, or have made their ideas come true through a local solidarity project of the European Solidarity Corps or the Idea Blower program. 

🗣️ The discussion panels are moderated by Killu Kolsar 

🎤 The day is hosted by the always cheerful Aaron Thor Härm

🎶 Music and pleasant energy will be brought to the hall by säm

🍴 Bites for every taste on our food court

🎧 Margus Kaukes is responsible for the music selection of Silent Disco

🎨 Vision Board workshop 

Participation in the event is FREE! In order for us to take you into account, let us know that you are coming by purchasing a free ticket from Fienta. 

PS! We will draw cool prizes from the first hundred registrants. 🤭