UEFA EURO 2016 volunteer programme launched
Saturday, May 30, 2015
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The search has begun for the 6,500 volunteers needed to help with the running of UEFA EURO 2016 – apply now for the chance of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
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The UEFA EURO 2016 volunteers programme was launched in Paris on Saturday – a total of 6,500 helpers will be required across the ten venues.
Visit www.volontaires.euro2016.fr or www.volunteers.euro2016.fr for more information.
Applications can be entered online from now until November but do not wait – this will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who are lucky enough to be selected. The volunteer programme will be implemented by the Association des Volontaires 2016 in Paris, an organisation founded by the French Football Federation (FFF) and Ligue de Football Professionel (LFP). The ambassadors of the programme are Christian Karembeu and Gaëtane Thiney.
Volunteers will be a critical component for the success of the tournament as they will most often be the first contact that visitors will have. Volunteers not only support the implementation of operations, but also lend enthusiasm and add a unique host country flavour. UEFA EURO 2016 would be impossible to organise without the help and dedication of volunteers. A wide variety of roles are available, including in media and guest services, marketing, hospitality, accreditation, transportation and logistics.
Must be …
• Available in June and July 2016
• Over the age of 18
• Customer orientated with at least basic English
Benefits …
• Training
• Uniform from adidas
• Meals and drinks while on duty
• Access to volunteer centre
Milestones
June to November 2015: Recruiting days at the ten venues
December 2015: Volunteers on duty for finals draw in Paris
April to May 2016: Training (elearning and on site)
May 2016: Opening of the volunteer centre
June to July 2016: Volunteers on mission
UEFA EURO 2012 experience
In Poland and Ukraine, organisers received a record 23,965 applications from fans worldwide to act as a volunteer. Ultimately more than 5,000 volunteers aided UEFA's full-time staff in 20 areas of operation, working at official UEFA EURO 2012 sites such as stadiums, airports and hotels.
Volunteering is for young and old alike – consider the case of sexagenarian Kurt Emil Gschwend, who volunteered in his Swiss homeland in 2008 and then cycled 2,700km to help out in Kyiv at UEFA EURO 2012. "It took me 23 days," he said of the journey. "I've met very friendly people and have had the opportunity to work, and at the same time relax with my body and soul."