Life on Mission

Fidesco volunteers never go on mission alone, but always live together with other volunteers as a part of a team. While these colleagues may have another nationality, they often have similar backgrounds and the motivation to live and work in a developing country. Daily sharing about the local culture, work and personal feelings—a real need in the sometimes desperate situations that may be encountered—is therefore easier.

On site, volunteers are housed in modest but safe accommodations. Because volunteers come to share the lives and concerns of the local population, they do not live apart. If safety allows, Fidesco volunteers live amongst the locals, and according to their daily rhythm of life. Only in dangerous situations, will volunteers be housed outside the area in which they work. For impressions of life on mission, click here to read the personal stories of Fidesco volunteers. Fidesco does not send volunteers to countries that are at war.
 
Fidesco guarantees social coverage. Fidesco volunteers are always insured. Most volunteers have “Volunteers of International Solidarity” (VSI) status, which according to French law applies to all who engage themselves “in a selfless way for a minimum duration of one year, to put personal skills at the service of a mission of international solidarity.” The VSI status is open to any person above 18, no matter what nationality, who wishes to engage in an “act of international solidarity.” VSI status ensures a certain number of guarantees to volunteers before, during and after the mission:

• Formation and reintegration support: Fidesco is committed to give volunteers not only training before their departure, but also to provide support with professional reintegration in France after returning from mission.
• Finance of mission expenses: travel costs from the country of origin of the volunteer, housing and food (not during formation).
• A monthly allowance: The volunteer is entitled to an allowance adapted to the local living conditions.
• Complete social benefits: health insurance, life insurance, medical repatriation assistance, liability insurance, and (in some cases) pension fund contribution.