newsLe Fœhn Holiday Center in Isola Welcomes the 2025 Universal National Service (SNU)
From June 16 to 27, 2025, the Le Fœhn holiday center in Isola, managed by Ifac Méditerranée, is proud to host 144 young volunteers as part of the Universal National Service (SNU). This stay marks a significant milestone for our organization, contributing to a major national civic initiative.
The SNU is a program launched by the French government for young people aged 15 to 17. Introduced in 2019, it aims to strengthen national cohesion, promote civic engagement, and foster a sense of belonging to the national community.
A Collective Effort
This ambitious project would not have been possible without the support of many partners. We extend our sincere thanks:
- To the State services for their ongoing support,
- To Mr. Bertrand Rigolot, Head of the Departmental Service for Youth, Engagement, and Sports in the Alpes-Maritimes,
- To Ms. Janick Le-Gall, SNU 06 Project Manager, for her invaluable involvement.
We also warmly thank the entire Ifac team, especially the support services of Ifac Méditerranée, whose dedication and professionalism were key to the success of this event.
A Unique and Memorable Experience
This stay in the heart of the Alps offers participants a unique opportunity to engage in group activities, discover the values of civic responsibility, and experience community life. It’s a powerful moment for these young people, who will leave with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of their role in society.
What is Universal National Service?
The Universal National Service (SNU) is a program initiated by the French government for young people aged 15 to 17. First implemented in 2019, the SNU aims to promote national cohesion, develop a culture of engagement, and strengthen the sense of belonging to the national community.
Objectives of the SNU
- Social cohesion: Promote living together by bringing together young people from all socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
- Civic engagement: Encourage young people to invest in volunteer activities and engage in local projects.
- Personal development: Offer participants opportunities for personal development through sports, cultural, and reflective activities.
Phases of the SNU
The SNU is carried out in three distinct phases:
- The cohesion stay: For two weeks, participants live together in a dedicated center where they take part in various educational, sports, and civic activities. This stay aims to reinforce the values of the Republic, knowledge of institutions, and develop the autonomy and responsibility of young people.
- The public interest mission: After the cohesion stay, young people engage in a public interest mission for two weeks, either in an association, a local community, a public institution, or a uniformed service (army, police, firefighters, etc.). This mission allows young people to contribute to society and discover new professional environments.
- Optional engagement: Participants can then choose to extend their engagement by joining volunteer schemes such as the Civic Service, the reserves of the armed forces or the voluntary firefighters. This phase is optional but strongly encouraged for those who wish to continue investing.
Benefits for Participants
- Acquisition of new skills: The activities and missions offered allow young people to develop a variety of skills, ranging from project management to public speaking.
- Networking and friendships: Living together during the cohesion stay fosters the creation of strong bonds among participants, thereby expanding their social network.
- Knowledge of institutions: The SNU provides a better understanding of public institutions and their functioning, thereby strengthening the sense of citizenship.
The SNU is thus designed to be an enriching experience, forming engaged citizens who are aware of their role within French society.
Discover our actions
