ПІДГОТОВКА МАЙБУТНІХ СОЦІАЛЬНИХ ПРАЦІВНИКІВ В УМОВАХ ВОЛОНТЕРСЬКОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ ТОВАРИСТВА ЧЕРВОНОГО ХРЕСТА УКРАЇНИ

Annotation. The article explores the preparation of future social workers for volunteer activities within the framework of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS). The primary goal is to characterize the content, methods, and approaches utilized in preparing social workers to actively participate in and contribute to the volunteer initiatives organized by the URCS. This research emphasizes the role of volunteerism in shaping professional competencies, fostering empathy, and cultivating a sense of social responsibility among future professionals in the field of social work. The study highlights the unique features of collaboration between higher education institutions and the Ukrainian Red Cross Society, which provides a valuable platform for experiential learning and hands-on practice. Particular attention is given to the pedagogical strategies that enhance the readiness of social work students for real-world challenges they may encounter during volunteer engagements. The inclusion of service-based learning, interactive workshops, and engagement in humanitarian projects are examined as effective tools in this preparation process. The findings underscore the transformative impact of participation in URCS volunteer activities on the development of personal and professional qualities such as empathy, resilience, teamwork, and leadership. The article also outlines the significance of fostering a volunteer culture as an integral part of social work education. It argues that the integration of volunteer activities into educational programs helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, thereby improving the overall quality of social work training. Moreover, the research identifies key challenges faced by students in adapting to the dynamic and often demanding environment of volunteer work, offering recommendations for addressing these issues. It proposes enhancing mentorship programs, providing psychological support, and creating flexible frameworks to balance academic and volunteer commitments. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of institutionalizing volunteerism within social work curricula as a means to prepare highly competent and socially engaged professionals. The proposed approach aims to contribute to the broader goals of fostering social cohesion, addressing community needs, and supporting vulnerable populations through well-trained and dedicated social workers. The results of the study can be instrumental in refining educational programs and policies, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of social work education in Ukraine and beyond.