Voluntary employment
Voluntary work is a form of personal commitment that is taken up for professional orientation, to bridge the gap, for social participation and often as a supplement to gainful employment.
Voluntary social year
The Voluntary Social Year (FSJ) is a voluntary service in social areas. You can do it on a voluntary basis as a young person or adult up to the age of 27 if you have completed your compulsory schooling.
It is usually completed over a period of 12 months. The FSJ is generally open to you if you have at least a temporary residence permit with a work permit.
During this time, you will not receive a salary, but pocket money, accommodation and meals if applicable, as well as non-contributory insurance for statutory health, pension, accident, unemployment and long-term care insurance. You are also still entitled to child benefit.
You work full-time in facilities that serve the common good. This includes, for example, nursing homes, clinics, kindergartens, facilities for the disabled, rescue services, hospitals and cultural or sports facilities.
Federal Volunteer Service
In addition to the FSJ, there is also the Federal Volunteer Service, which volunteers can do even if they are older than 27. This can also be done part-time under the same conditions as the FSJ.
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Volunteering
Volunteers make a contribution to society without expecting anything in return. Many charitable associations, as well as individual projects, would not be possible without volunteers.
You contribute your own skills for the benefit of all, come into contact with other volunteers and have the certainty that you are doing good. Anyone who can identify with this approach is welcome to volunteer.
You may find the right volunteering opportunity for you in the areas of care, learning support, sport, nature and the environment, refugee aid, animal welfare or accident assistance. Find out more online or at local projects of interest to you.