What is a family EVS?
What is a Family EVS? A Life-Changing Experience You Need to Know About
Understanding Family EVS
Well, if you're wondering what a Family EVS is, you're not alone. I had no idea until a friend of mine mentioned it, and I couldn't stop thinking about it after that. EVS stands for "European Voluntary Service," and it’s a program that allows people to volunteer abroad, but here's the twist—it's not just for individuals. A Family EVS is essentially an opportunity for entire families to participate in a volunteering project abroad. Yes, a whole family.
Honestly, it sounds like a dream, right? Packing up, moving abroad, and spending time volunteering as a family? It’s one of those opportunities that can completely transform your perspective on life and bring your family closer together. But, how does it really work? Let’s dive into it.
How Does Family EVS Work?
Volunteering Abroad as a Family
A Family EVS allows parents and children to get involved in meaningful projects in other countries. These projects can range from environmental conservation, working with children, supporting local communities, or helping in cultural exchanges. The main goal is to engage in projects that benefit the local community while offering a learning experience for your family.
When I first heard about it, I thought, "Could we really take our kids on something like this?" The idea of uprooting everything and volunteering abroad seemed daunting, but when you see the impact it can have, it's hard to ignore.
How to Apply for a Family EVS
Well, you’re probably thinking, “How do we even start?” It’s not as complicated as it sounds, but it does require some research. You’ll need to find a host organization that supports families in the program. These organizations will help match your family with suitable projects. One thing that really stood out to me when I talked to a friend who had done a Family EVS was how much preparation goes into finding the right fit.
You’ll apply like you would for any volunteer program: submit applications, go through interviews, and hopefully, get accepted into a project that aligns with your interests and values. It’s also important to keep in mind that some countries may have specific requirements or language barriers. But if you’re open-minded, the experience is incredibly rewarding.
What Are the Benefits of a Family EVS?
Strengthening Family Bonds
Honestly, one of the most powerful aspects of a Family EVS is how it strengthens your family unit. I spoke with a family who did a Family EVS in Portugal, and they shared how the experience brought them closer together. There’s something about working side by side on a meaningful project that creates memories and deepens connections.
For example, the family helped in a local community garden, where they all participated in planting and maintaining crops. Their kids learned about sustainable living while the parents gained a deeper understanding of their role in the community. It’s a whole new way of bonding, beyond just watching TV or playing games together.
Immersing in a New Culture
Another huge benefit is cultural immersion. It’s one thing to travel as a tourist, but living in a country and volunteering in a local community brings you face-to-face with the real culture. When I spoke to this one family from France who did a Family EVS in Greece, they shared how much they learned about Greek traditions, food, and history. Their kids were exposed to an entirely new language and culture, which they now cherish and carry with them.
Teaching Life Skills to Kids
A Family EVS isn’t just about the parents gaining experiences—it’s also about teaching your kids important life lessons. Volunteering abroad teaches children empathy, adaptability, and the importance of giving back. Kids who participate in these programs often come back with a new sense of responsibility and a broader perspective of the world.
I remember my own experience with volunteering in a local project. It was just me, but I learned so much about teamwork and community-building. I can only imagine how much more a family would gain from doing this together!
Are There Any Challenges with a Family EVS?
The Fear of the Unknown
Honestly, there are challenges to consider, and I can’t ignore that. A big one is the fear of the unknown. Moving to another country, especially with kids, can be overwhelming. You might feel nervous about cultural differences, the logistics of moving, or how the kids will adjust to the new environment.
A friend of mine who did a Family EVS in Spain said that the first few weeks were tough. They had to adjust to the language, the food, and the way of life. But once they got the hang of things, the experience became unforgettable. And that’s part of the beauty of it—it’s about stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing new challenges as a family.
Financial Considerations
Another concern could be the financial aspect. While many Family EVS programs offer living expenses and sometimes even travel costs, there are still other costs to consider—things like health insurance, extra activities, or unforeseen expenses. That said, the financial benefits of doing a Family EVS can outweigh the costs if you manage things well. Some organizations even provide allowances for families, so it’s worth checking out the specifics before you commit.
Final Thoughts: Is a Family EVS Right for You?
Well, after diving into all of this, I honestly think a Family EVS can be one of the most rewarding experiences a family can have. It’s not just about volunteering abroad—it’s about transforming your perspective on life, growing as individuals and as a family, and making a lasting impact in a community. Sure, it’s not always easy, and there are challenges to navigate, but the rewards? They’re more than worth it.
If you’ve ever dreamed of living abroad with your family while making a positive difference, a Family EVS might be just the adventure you need. It could change your lives in ways you never expected. So, why not take the leap?
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The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.
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How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).
How tall is a average 15 year old?
Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years
| Male Teens: 13 - 20 Years) | ||
|---|---|---|
| 14 Years | 112.0 lb. (50.8 kg) | 64.5" (163.8 cm) |
| 15 Years | 123.5 lb. (56.02 kg) | 67.0" (170.1 cm) |
| 16 Years | 134.0 lb. (60.78 kg) | 68.3" (173.4 cm) |
| 17 Years | 142.0 lb. (64.41 kg) | 69.0" (175.2 cm) |
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