Don Bosco Center for Children and Youth
Site Overview
The Don Bosco Center for Children and Youth in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, is a vibrant Salesian ministry serving primarily Roma children and young people in the Lozenetz district—an underserved neighborhood of approximately 20,000 residents. Through the work of the Salesian community and the Don Bosco Bulgaria Foundation, the center provides a safe, welcoming space for education, recreation, and personal development rooted in the Salesian spirit.
The mission focuses on accompaniment, relationship-building, and creating opportunities for young people who often face social exclusion and poverty. The center offers daily activities, educational support, and formative experiences that foster dignity, joy, and hope. Volunteers become an essential part of this mission, helping to transform the environment through their presence and engagement.
Available Ministries
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Education
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Teacher (Primary)
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Social Work
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Youth & Campus Ministry
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Youth Centre
Location
Time Commitment
Opportunities
Current Volunteers
Ministry Background
The Don Bosco Center has been serving children and youth in Stara Zagora through the Salesian mission and the Don Bosco Bulgaria Foundation. The work focuses especially on outreach in the Roma district, where long-term accompaniment and consistent presence are key to building trust and impact.
Purpose & Objectives
The purpose of this placement is to accompany children and young people—especially from marginalized Roma communities—through daily presence, educational support, and recreational activities. The volunteer helps create a joyful and structured environment where young people can grow in confidence, community, and hope.
Programs, Activities, & Other Projects
- Participation in formation weekends for Bulgarian youth volunteers (animators)
- Development of new activities, workshops, or creative programs
- Support for camps, excursions, and seasonal programs
Duties & Responsibilities
- Organize games and recreational activities (before/after study sessions and during vacations)
- Accompany children and youth during free time, sports, and excursions
- Lead workshops, activity groups, or clubs (based on skills and interests)
- Support educational activities and study programs
- Assist in camps, trips, and community events
- Propose and develop new activities for youth engagement
- Participate in volunteer formation sessions and training
Practical Qualifications/Skills Needed
- Ability to work with children and adolescents in challenging environments
- Creativity and initiative in leading activities and programs
- Strong relational and communication skills
- Flexibility and adaptability
- Emotional maturity and patience
- Willingness to serve in a mission-focused, cross-cultural setting
Useful Academic Preparation
Background in education, social work, youth ministry, or related fields is helpful but not required.
Useful Experience
- Experience working with youth, especially in underserved communities
- Previous volunteer or mission experience
- Skills in sports, arts, music, or informal education
- Experience leading group activities or workshops
Area Information
Stara Zagora, Bulgaria — a mid-sized city in central Bulgaria. The volunteer will primarily serve in the Lozenetz district, a densely populated Roma neighborhood with significant social and economic challenges.
Involvement with the religous community
Area Information
Stara Zagora, Bulgaria — a mid-sized city in central Bulgaria. The volunteer will primarily serve in the Lozenetz district, a densely populated Roma neighborhood with significant social and economic challenges.
Involvement with the greater community
Volunteers engage directly with children, youth, and families in the Roma community, as well as participate in broader youth formation initiatives and community events organized by the foundation.
Special Challenges & Conditions
Working in the Roma community can be demanding and requires patience, resilience, and a strong missionary spirit. Progress may be slow, and the impact of the work is often seen over time rather than immediately. Volunteers must be comfortable with uncertainty, cultural differences, and the realities of poverty and social exclusion.
Housing & Community
Live with Religious
Room
Daily Eucharist
Bathroom
Launder
Laundry arrangements available within the community or volunteer housing
Access to ATM
Local Diet
Volunteers receive a monthly food allowance (approximately €180) and are responsible for managing their meals. Local Bulgarian cuisine is simple and hearty, with access to markets and grocery stores.
Local Medical Facilities
Basic medical services are available in Stara Zagora. Volunteers should be prepared for standard European healthcare systems.
