Apart from being one of the most visible aspects of P.PORTO's social intervention, volunteer work interests people for several reasons, the main one being the noblest of all: helping others.
But its is still an exchange, as the volunteers also get something out of it. Doing volunteer work makes us feel useful and for young people pursuing their education it can be an advantage when they apply for a job. It is actually a joint effort of which P.PORTO is an active part, promoting it under its Volunteering Programme, supervised by GIAP.
As civic and social participation, volunteer work promotes not only positive changes but also the acquisition of skills and knowledge. Just like those teaching also learn, the volunteers gain something from those they help. All volunteer actions are a good opportunity for valuing the person's academic education in a real context. Or, possibly, to find one's vocation — deep down, it is a positive way to enrich one's CV and strengthen our network of contacts.
Following P.PORTO's mission of educating upright citizens, we deeply believe that volunteer work is an important part of the comprehensive educational model we offer.
All of it is translated into three areas of direct intervention. The first, Students Mediators, encompasses projects created and headed by the Schools, the Polytechnic's Secretariat or the Students' Unions, covering social, health and well-being issues with a methodology of students supporting other students. The second, Social Leadership and Entrepreneurship includes projects created and headed by GIAP. Such projects are implemented with the help of P.PORTO's teaching staff (mentors) and outside entities, in the areas of environmental and social sustainability and development, with a focus on a shared cooperation and communication process. Finally, Community Intervention, which includes projects created and headed by external entities. These entities promote volunteer work of community and social interest and they have a cooperation protocol with GIAP, which enables its articulated implementation.
Academic and Professional Integration Office
T. 225 571 016
giap@sc.ipp.pt
