Inspire Balkans 2025

From June 20 to June 30, 2025, volunteers will engage with local communities in Kosova and Albania. They will connect with local communities by running an educational camp for orphans, providing psychosocial support, and taking part in community service projects, including rehabilitating schools and homes, and distributing essential supplies to help vulnerable groups in the area. This program provides unique insight into the region’s culture, history, and challenges.


Highlights

  • Kosova and Albania
  • Fundraising Target → $3,500 CAD per volunteer
  • Registration Fee → $475 CAD non-refundable registration fee is required once accepted into the Inspire program

Apply now

Program Requirements

The Inspire Volunteer Abroad Program is looking for participants who have the following criteria:

  • Over 18 years old of age
  • Able to attend orientation sessions and necessary training
  • Sincere interest and passion for helping others
  • Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to work as part of a team
  • Intercultural awareness and excellent intercultural communication skills
  • Able to work with youth and children
  • Formal or non-formal education or training relevant to the program
  • Flexible and adaptable in new, potentially stressful environments

Background

In the Balkans, Kosova and Albania face unique social and economic challenges, including poverty and limited access to quality education. Vulnerable communities, particularly children and youth, are among the most affected. Recognizing these pressing issues, Islamic Relief established offices in Kosova in 2000 and Albania in 1991 to provide targeted support and sustainable solutions to these vulnerable populations.




Islamic Relief Kosova

Since its establishment in 2000, the Islamic Relief Kosova office has played a vital role in addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by the country, particularly in the aftermath of the Kosova War. The office focuses on educational development, psychosocial support, and economic empowerment to uplift vulnerable families and children. Programs include educational sponsorships that provide access to quality schooling for disadvantaged children and youth. Additionally, the office runs psychosocial activities aimed at helping children and youth recover from trauma, fostering resilience and emotional well-being. Economic empowerment initiatives, such as skill development and microfinance opportunities, further help marginalized communities achieve self-reliance.

Islamic Relief Albania

Islamic Relief Albania, established in 1991, was one of the first offices in the region, responding to the urgent needs of communities during Albania’s turbulent transition from communism to democracy. Over the years, it has expanded its scope, focusing on sustainable development, education, and emergency relief. Key programs include scholarships and school support initiatives that enhance access to education for children in rural and impoverished areas. The office has also been a leader in economic empowerment, providing vocational training and small-business grants to foster self-reliance among families. In times of crisis, such as during floods or earthquakes, Islamic Relief Albania has delivered critical emergency assistance, helping families rebuild their lives.


Both offices prioritize community engagement, ensuring that projects are tailored to the needs of the people they serve. By collaborating with schools, orphanages, and local organizations, they have created programs that are both impactful and sustainable, addressing not only immediate needs but also long-term challenges.

Main activities

Volunteers will embark on a 10-day journey engaging with local communities in Kosova and Albania. Activities include:

  • Running educational workshops and recreational activities for children and youth
  • Providing psychosocial support programs that foster emotional growth, resilience, and a sense of belonging for vulnerable children and youth


  • Packing and distributing food and hygiene kits to families in need
  • Participating in community service projects such as rehabilitation of schools and/or homes to improve living conditions for local communities
  • Visiting local Islamic Relief projects to learn about their impact and hear directly from rights-holders



Cultural Immersion Activities

Volunteers will have the opportunity to explore the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Kosova and Albania. Activities will include visits to key landmarks, historic sites, and areas of cultural significance in both countries, offering participants an authentic glimpse into the traditions and heritage of the Balkans.

Benefits of field study

The Inspire program provides volunteers with an immersive and enriching experience, blending humanitarian service with cultural exploration. Volunteers will:

  • Enhance their leadership, communication, and team-building skills
  • Deepen their understanding of global humanitarian challenges
  • Develop intercultural awareness and empathy
  • Receive letters of reference upon request after completing the program

Participants are also encouraged to continue volunteering with Islamic Relief Canada to extend their humanitarian efforts beyond the trip.


Fundraising Process

All accepted applicants are required to raise a minimum of $3,500 CAD each. The funds raised will support Islamic Relief’s projects in Kosova, Albania, and other rights-holders in the Balkan regions. Volunteers will receive fundraising guidance, including tips on engaging their networks and maximizing outreach. Donations will be allocated to Inspire program components and ongoing, long-term projects. None of the donations will cover personal expenses.

Accommodations & Costs

Islamic Relief Canada will cover your stay in Balkans, including your accommodation, transportation within the country, food, and scheduled sightseeing activities. Please note that flights are NOT covered. Thus, the volunteer is responsible for purchasing their flights to and from Balkans and mandatory health insurance.

Pre-Departure Training

Once accepted into the program, volunteers are required to complete a combination of mandatory virtual and online training sessions. There will be about 3-4 sessions in total, with an average duration of 2 hours each. The training will cover Fundraising, Team Building, Country Profile, Islamic Relief's History, Field Safety and Security, Activity Planning, Humanitarian Standards, and Passion Projects. The schedule will be released upon being accepted into the program. These training sessions are mandatory to attend.