INTEURO in Opatów – young people learned about NGOs, volunteering and civic engagement in Poland

On 28 May 2026, consultants from the Integration Europe – East Association met with students of a technical school in Opatów to introduce them to civic engagement, volunteering and the work of non-governmental organisations in Poland.

The meeting was informational and educational in nature and was organised as part of the activities of the INTEURO Centre. Its aim was not only to provide practical information, but also to show young foreigners that civic engagement, volunteering and cooperation with non-governmental organisations can be an important element of integration, personal development and better adaptation in Poland.

Consultants from the Integration Europe – East Association explained to the students what non-governmental organisations are, what role they play in social life and how they support residents, including people with migration experience. The young people learned how associations and foundations operate, how volunteering differs from paid work, and why civic involvement can help build competences useful in the future.

An important part of the meeting was a discussion about volunteering as a way to gain experience, develop communication skills, meet new people and better understand the local community. Participants also talked about how civic engagement can strengthen self-confidence, responsibility and readiness to cooperate with others.

The meeting also addressed practical topics related to the everyday functioning of young foreigners in Poland. Students asked questions, including about education, residence, planning their future and the possibility of using support offered by the INTEURO Centre and the Integration Europe – East Association.

The meeting took the form of an open dialogue. Students actively participated in the discussion, asked questions and shared their experiences. This form of work made it possible to better respond to the real needs of young people and to show that non-governmental organisations can be a place of support, cooperation and safe conversation.

Activities carried out in schools are an important part of the INTEURO project. Thanks to them, young foreigners can learn more about Polish institutions, the local environment and opportunities for active participation in social life. They are also an opportunity to build mutual understanding, openness and a sense that everyone can have an impact on the community in which they live.