Porto is renowned for its exceptional support and vibrant experiences offered to incoming international students. From thrilling events to invaluable tips and guidance, we strive to make their time in Porto truly unforgettable. But amidst all the excitement, we often ponder: what can these students give back to the community they temporarily call home?

Introducing the "Volunteering Days" initiative, a new project under the umbrella of Social Impact Days (SIDs), where international students have the opportunity to give back to the community that has embraced them. It's a gentle reminder that their mobility period isn't just about exploration; it's also about leaving a positive mark and celebrating ESN causes together.

"During this impactful week, we focused on two core pillars: Environmental Sustainability and Social Inclusion. Through activities like beach cleaning and volunteering at charity kitchens, we aimed to foster a sense of responsibility towards our planet and solidarity with those in need. Moreover, by collaborating with organizations, we amplified our impact and created lasting connections within the community.", says Vitor Bizarro, President of ESN Porto and major responsible for this project.

• The journey began with a Beach Cleaning Day, where ESN volunteers and international students joined forces to preserve the beauty of Foz do Douro's coastline. Beyond picking up trash, it was a moment of reflection on our environmental footprint and the collective commitment to a greener future.
• Moving forward, we dedicated an afternoon to the residents of Lar Bela Vista, a heartwarming experience that bridged generational gaps through music and shared stories. This interaction reminded us of the importance of empathy and human connection in building a compassionate society.
• As the week progressed, our efforts extended to providing warm meals to those in need through the Erasmus Charity Kitchen, in collaboration with CASA.
• And to culminate our Volunteering Days, we partnered with "Just a Change" to assist in building homes for the underprivileged, reinforcing our commitment to social inclusion and community empowerment.