About this role
Organizational and Youth Development Facilitator
Project Description: Do you have a natural way of energizing and inspiring individuals to get involved with a project? Organizations across Albania are looking for your skills!
Since Albania first began transitioning to a democracy 30 years ago, local government units and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have struggled to facilitate sustainable community development. Persisting challenges are related to limited civic engagement, underutilization of local resources, as well as the need to improve governance, transparency, accountability, and a common work ethic. At the same time, local youth have entered a cycle of apathy, lack of hope, and pessimism.
As an Organizational and Youth Development Facilitator, you will support local government units, NGOs, and state institutions—such as national parks and tourism agencies—to engage community members in projects. Together, you will promote asset-based approaches to community development, civil society engagement, good governance, and networking among stakeholders as well as to youth empowerment and development.
Required Skills: Bachelor's degree in any field.
Living Conditions: Volunteers are placed all throughout Albania and will live with host families during their initial pre-service training and at least the first six months of their service. Volunteers are provided a small space heater for their bedroom.
Activities: Mentor staff on organizational development skills, such as promotion, public relations, and image building. Provide trainings on project design and management methodology. Organize and facilitate the creation of youth civic engagement opportunities, such as camps and clubs. Facilitate volunteer activities and service-learning projects, especially for youth. Train and guide community members—especially youth—on leadership and employability Facilitate a cause- or group-specific campaign that supports minorities, individuals living with a disability, women, or youth. You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as after-school English clubs and workshops on personal hygiene for the youth.
Training: As an Organizational and Youth Development Facilitator, you will be trained to facilitate sustainable community development that is rooted in civic engagement. Peace Corps/Albania and Montenegro will teach you Albanian to help you comfortably live in and connect with the community. You will also receive supplemental language learning resources.
After 11 weeks of training, you will move to an urban, semi-urban, or rural community where you will collaborate with local government officials, non-governmental organizational staff, or staff at state institutions such as national park rangers. Together, you will assess the local needs and develop solutions based on an asset-based approach driven by the community.
Job Highlights: Gain valuable business advising and intercultural communication skills. Learn Albanian from dedicated Language and Cross-Culture Facilitators. Experience the beauty of the Balkans and rich cultural traditions in person.