In this document, we refer to two key concepts frequently used in our project descriptions and reports: “Volu.M.E” and “The Constellation.”
These terms are closely linked to the strategic training activities we have developed over the past 11 years. Since 2022, these efforts have been further supported and enhanced by the Youth Accreditation awarded to Politistiko Ergastiri Ayion Omoloyiton-Cyprus, EJBW-Germany in collaboration with Pro Vobis-Romania
Volu.M.E – Volunteer Management Enhanced
“Volu.M.E” was created to address a growing need among organizations and individuals seeking deeper engagement with the principles and practices of Volunteer Management. It was specifically designed for audiences with at least one prior experience as an international EVS Hosting or Coordinating Organization.
The term Enhanced emphasizes our commitment to exploring Volunteer Management in greater depth—exchanging expertise, sharing good practices and challenges, and developing practical tools to improve EVS/ESC projects. The activities primarily focused on the different steps of Volunteer Management and placed a special emphasis on Mentoring as a core element of the volunteer hosting process.
The initial implementation of Volu.M.E took place in April 2014 in Lefkosia, Cyprus (Part I), and concluded in March 2015 with a follow-up seminar under the same application. From the beginning, we recognized the importance of a long-term, structured approach that supports both organizations and individuals. Therefore, we intentionally planned both a training course and a seminar within the same project, involving the same partner and sending organizations—often with consistent participants. This structure fostered continuity, mutual understanding, and the growth of shared competences within our network.
Over the past decade, multiple organizations have consistently engaged in Volu.M.E activities, forming a strong network of youth workers and professionals. This network has not only supported the implementation of these initiatives but also benefited from shared values, aligned competences, and joint learning outcomes.
This collaborative environment also led to the development of practical tools, methods, and resources tailored to the needs of grassroots organizations. Many of these outcomes are publicly available, including those featured in the “Treasure Box for Mentors”. Pro Vobis-Romania
The impact and relevance of the Volu.M.E concept were recognized by the Cyprus National Agency, resulting in the implementation of a National TCA in December 2015 in Limassol, Cyprus. The success of this approach also gained recognition from the German National Agency, which supported a sequence of linked activities under EJBW in Weimar in 2017, leading to:
- Volu.M.E Training Course (Part I) – March 2018, Weimar, Germany
- Volu.M.E Seminar (Part II) – June 2018, Lysos, Cyprus
Between 2014 and 2021, Politistiko Ergastiri, EJBW and Pro Vobis have jointly implemented nine (9) Volu.M.E training courses KA1 activities funded by the Erasmus+ Programme.
Since the introduction of Youth Accreditation for Organizations (KA150) in 2022, Politistiko Ergastiri, EJBW and Pro Vobis have jointly implemented 16 additional activities (from 2022 to August 2025). The consistently high interest from youth workers and organizations—as well as the large number of repeat applicants—demonstrates both the ongoing need and the trust in our approach. Topics such as Volunteering Management, Mentoring, and Competence Development for Coordinators, Youth Workers, and Mentors remain highly relevant.
The Constellation
Building on the successes of the Volu.M.E initiative, and responding to the needs of organizations committed to high-quality international volunteering, we launched a new network: “The Constellation.”
Formally established in August 2024, “The Constellation” is an informal network of 8 NGOs from Romania, Italy, France, Germany, and Cyprus. Its mission is to provide quality training opportunities for youth workers and organizations implementing ESC and Erasmus+ projects.
We operate through a shared strategic plan of mobilities, based on long-term goals, shared values, and a commitment to high-quality training practices.
Our working model for each training activity includes:
- Two lead trainers
- One junior/assistant trainer
- One support staff member
This rotational system ensures the equitable involvement of all Constellation members, promoting a balanced distribution of skills and talents and maximizing the impact of each learning experience.
Content decisions are first made within the Constellation to align with the network’s long-term aims and each project’s specific objectives. More detailed decisions—regarding content, methodology, tools, expected outcomes, evaluation methods, and learning assessment—are made by the designated trainer team for each activity.
To ensure effective financial management, we have developed and refined a suite of planning, monitoring, and evaluation tools, including:
- Excel-based cost trackers
- Reimbursement templates
- Participant call templates
The Constellation is planning more activities in the next years feeling that the last years of practice are worth promoting defining quality paths of practices.
