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The application process begins by selecting a service model and finding an open position.
If you are flexible in where you serve for the two-year Peace Corps Volunteer program, our experts can match you with a position and country based on your experience and preferences.
Serve where you’re needed most
Albania • Europe
In partnership with: Local government, non-governmental organizations, national parks
Applications are now closed. View current openings.
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.
Learn more about what Volunteers do in country by visiting our Albania project page.
Qualified candidates will have one or more of the following criteria:
Bachelor's degree in any field.
Language: There are no pre-requisite language requirements for this position.
These competencies are essential for all service assignments and are assessed in the application and interview process:
Motivation for and commitment to service
Adaptability and open-mindedness
Problem solving and resourcefulness
Behavioral maturity and professionalism
How you and the community will make an impact together:
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.
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.
Learn more about the living conditions, including detailed information on culture, communications, housing, and health/crime statistics on our Albania country page. You can also delve into stories about local communities by reading our blog or Volunteer stories.
Health Educator
"Over the past two years, it’s been incredible to see my students embrace a new perspective on life. They’re now speaking up for each other, playing together, and challenging discrimination when they see it."
See full Volunteer profile
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.
No couples are accepted for this position.
From application to departure takes around nine months. Learn about the application process for Volunteer opportunities.
You will need to be cleared medically and legally in order to serve in Albania. Review information on medical clearance and legal clearance to learn about the process.