EIL Intercultural Learning

An Irish Based Organisation

EIL Intercultural Learning is a well established, Irish based organisation. Over the years we have built strong links with various communities, not for profit organisations and youth groups all over the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. At a national level, EIL is working together with Comhlamh and other volunteer sending organisations to identify and spread best possible practice. EIL is a signatory of the Comhlamh Code of Good Practice for Volunteer Sending Organisations. EIL is also an active member of the National Youth Council of Ireland and a signatory of the Dochas Code of Conduct on Images and Messages.

Worldwide Recognition

EIL was first established in 1932 and is the oldest educational exchange organisation in the world. In 1989 the EIL International Federation was designated as a Peace Messenger Organisation by The Secretary General of the United Nations in recognition of its work. The EIL Network also has consultative Status at the Council of Europe and at The Economic and Social Council of The United Nations.

A Not For Profit Organisation Lead by Former Participants

EIL is a not for profit organisation and is not owned by anybody or any group of people. There are no shareholders or annual dividends or profits to be paid to any individual or group of individuals. EIL invests any surpluses back in to its work through scholarships, subsidies and travel awards which allow young people from disadvantaged backgrounds participate in intercultural and volunteer programmes.. EIL is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors all of whom are former participants and all of whom receive no payments or fees for their work. The Board monitors and supervises a full time staff based in Cork who are responsible for the day to day operations of the organisation.

Supporting Local Initiatives

EIL is committed to helping make a difference to local initiatives in deprived communities around the world. We believe local people know what is needed and what is appropriate for their own communities. Our vision is one of volunteers working alongside local people, sharing skills and energies and turning the plans and dreams of local communities in to reality.

Safety: the First Priority

EIL's first priority is safety. As an international organization we have 75 years experience of successful placements in other countries. EIL only places volunteers in countries where we have a sister office which can monitor and react to safety issues on the ground. A 24 hour/7 day emergency support systems policy is in place to handle any urgent situations or crises. You will be thoroughly briefed on safety issues before leaving Ireland and during the arrival orientation in your host country. This practical safety advice is designed to help you understand the risks you may face and the ways in which you can prevent or minimise them.

Experienced In-Country Staff

EIL believes a successful international volunteer programme requires a capable and dedicated staff in the country you will visit as well as in Ireland. Staff members in the field are highly qualified professionals, with years of experience in intercultural exchanges and in supporting international volunteers. They work all year round to ensure that you are provided with support and guidance throughout your volunteer experience. Staff members are from the region in which our programmes operate and have a deep knowledge and understanding of the local communities and their needs.

Flexible programmes

Our extended worldwide network of partners allows us to offer a large variety of volunteer programmes which suit most needs: placements are available from 2 weeks to 11 months, in 15 different countries with start dates all year-round. You can volunteer in rural or urban settings, and you can choose to be placed in an area where there will be other international volunteers. You can apply as an individual or join a group of volunteers. You can go with your friends, your partner, family, youth club, or decide to form your own group.