(ANS – Rome) – The call for applications to select volunteers for the 2026 Universal Civil Service is now available online. A total of 1,150 positions are open for projects in Italy and abroad promoted by the Salesian social network.
The initiative is open to young adults ages 18–28 and represents a meaningful opportunity for civic engagement, personal development, and professional growth. The program focuses on combating educational poverty and social inequality.
The call for applications is promoted by the Department for Youth Policies and Universal Civil Service of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, as part of national policies supporting youth participation and social cohesion. The theme accompanying the call — “FARE STRADA INSIEME. Per crescere, per condividere, per costruire” (“LEADING THE WAY TOGETHER. To grow, to share, to build”) — summarizes the spirit of the experience: a structured path of responsibility, mentorship, and skill development that goes beyond traditional volunteering and offers a valuable professional formation experience.
A National Network within the Salesian Family
Of the 1,150 available positions, 1,053 are in Italy and 97 are abroad.
In Italy, projects operate in all regions through the Salesian provinces — Piedmont and Valle d’Aosta (ICP), Central Italy (ICC), Lombardy-Emilia (ILE), Southern Italy (IME), Northeast Italy (INE), and Sicily (ISI) — along with academic and affiliated organizations within the Salesian Family. These include the Salesian Pontifical University, International Volunteering for Development (VIS), Salesian Youth Sports Clubs (PGS) Italy, Movimento per la Vita, Consorzio Zenith, Istituto Filippo Smaldone, and Comunità sulla Strada di Emmaus.
This broad presence ensures strong community roots and close educational support throughout the country.
Internationally, projects are carried out in partnership with Salesian ministries and missions across Europe (Spain, Albania, Malta, Moldova), the United States, Latin America (Brazil, Bolivia, Uruguay, Colombia), and Africa (Angola, Ghana, and Ethiopia). These placements offer volunteers meaningful service experiences and global citizenship engagement in diverse cultural and social settings.
The network guarantees high-quality training, consistent mentorship, and access to a well-established and internationally recognized pedagogical approach: Don Bosco’s Preventive System.
A Year Serving the Most Vulnerable
Volunteers will participate in educational and social initiatives focused especially on children and young people in vulnerable situations. Activities include:
- After-school tutoring and academic support
- Prevention of early school dropout
- Personalized educational programs
- Youth ministry and oratory activities
- Sports programs as tools for inclusion
- Services in residential homes, day centers, and community-based programs supporting minors and families
The Universal Civil Service is a highly formative experience that enables participants to develop interpersonal, organizational, and project management skills; collaborate in team environments; and assume meaningful responsibilities. It is a year of service that creates local impact while fostering both personal and civic growth.
Moving Forward Together, Building the Future
“In a time marked by war and inequality, the Universal Civil Service represents a responsible choice for peace and the common good,” says Fr. Francesco Preite, National President of Salesians for Social. “It is not only a formative experience but a concrete commitment to the most vulnerable — one that cultivates solidarity and active participation. As Salesians for Social, we believe every young person has the ability to help transform society. ‘Walking together’ means standing alongside those most in need and building the future with responsibility and courage.”
Additional information about Salesians for Social projects in Italy and abroad is available and continuously updated on the official website:
www.salesianiperilsociale.it/cosa-facciamo/servizio-civile