My name is Sarah, I'm twenty-three years old, I'm from France, and I recently had an experience that completely transformed my way of looking at the world.
For thirty-four days, I volunteered with the European Solidarity Corps in Milena, a wonderful and welcoming place located in the heart of Sicily's hinterland, in the province of Caltanissetta. When I left, I wasn't sure what to expect from a short-term project, but as soon as I arrived, welcomed with immense warmth by the "Il Circo Pace e Bene" association and the staff of the Magazzino Culturale, I immediately knew that this small town would become my second home.
I threw myself into community life from the very first moment, unhindered by language barriers or shyness. At the youth center, we worked tirelessly with the local children and youth, creating a space of pure joy where we could organize games, movie afternoons, and even put on short theater performances we created together. It was wonderful to see how creativity and enthusiasm can bridge any distance. I also began teaching informal English lessons for the villagers and was delighted to join the women's crochet workshop: sitting with them, learning their traditional techniques, and listening to their stories was one of the most authentic and precious moments of human and intergenerational exchange of my entire life.
In addition to cultural and recreational activities, together with other international volunteers, we rolled up our sleeves to care for the environment and the area that was so generously hosting us. We actively participated in the DREAMS project, designed to revitalize and restore neglected places, proudly contributing to the restoration of one of the town's historic fountains. Furthermore, seeing that some areas needed some attention, we took the initiative to collect litter abandoned in the streets, leaving Milena even cleaner, more beautiful, and more welcoming than we had found her.
Before leaving for France, the loving words Maria dedicated to me on behalf of the entire association moved me deeply. Knowing that my smile, my ideas, and my desire to help have left such a beautiful memory in the hearts of the residents is a priceless gift. They told me that Milena's doors will always be open to me, and I already know that this wasn't a goodbye, but simply a see you later.
If you're thinking about getting involved with the European Solidarity Corps, don't hesitate and take the first step. Even just over a month can be enough to leave a tangible mark on a community, but above all, to rediscover yourself and return home with a heart full of gratitude.