Guest Author - Julie Fredrick
In a previous article, I discussed one of the newest, popular trends in travel--volunteer vacations (voluntourism). Here are a few specific organizations and opportunities to guide you in your decision-making process.
If the organic food movement interests you, consider volunteering with WWOOF. World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms began in 1971, and has since been offering volunteers the chance to work on organic farms throughout Europe in exchange for room and board. Opportunities vary from tending livestock to growing grapes for wine to making artisanal cheeses and breads. Woofing is a great way to learn a new skill as well as meet other volunteers from all over the world, opening the doors to different farms around the globe. http://www.wwoof.org/
The National Trust offers over 400 opportunities throughout the UK to work to provide valuable conservation help for historic homes or gardens. Children (with adults) are welcomed, and the “jobs” typically last from a weekend to a week. Typically working in groups of 12, there is plenty of time to explore the region with newfound friends on your time off. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-trust/w-volunteering/w-workingholidays.htm
Do visions of Italy’s Ligurian Coast swirl through your head? Think you’d like to help the people living on this portion of the Italian Rivera to preserve the vulnerable landscape? Then PCT may be your answer. PCT (Protect Cinque Terre) offers 3-day volunteer opportunities to work with local residents to protect their environment while learning about the history, culture and cuisine of the region. This work involves more demanding physical labor, so participants must be healthy and in good physical condition. Room and board is not provided, but PCT can help with finding accommodation. The tours are only available in June and September, so book far in advance. http://www.protectcinqueterre.com/index.html
Earthwatch Institute (Europe) is one of the best-known (and most expensive) volunteer organizations, but also has opportunities in nearly any area of expertise you can imagine. From studying climate change to tracking dolphins and whales to participating in archaeological digs, Earthwatch offers research expeditions for people of all ages and interests. http://www.earthwatch.org/europe
More into historical monuments than the great outdoors? Adventures in Preservation offers hands-on conservation workshops at historical sites all over the world. Their aim is to restore old buildings for new uses, such as community centers, museums and cultural centers. They strive to not only restore old buildings, but also restore pride in the lives of the local people. http://www.adventuresinpreservation.org/
Volunteers for Peace offers voluntary service projects in a multitude of environments for the betterment of people of all cultures. Volunteers provide needed community service while living and interacting in an intercultural environment. VFP is an affordable volunteer opportunity suitable for most age groups. Providing social services for local children, working with refugees, the disabled, and addicts, as well as providing AIDS educations are only a few examples. http://www.vfp.org/
EKPAZ (Hellenic Wildlife Hospital) is the largest and oldest wildlife rehabilitation center in Greece. It is dedicated to treatment, rehab and release of indigenous species of wildlife, public education and information, protection of endangered species and research/prevention to threats to wildlife.
Located on the island of Aegina, the center contains a veterinary clinic, volunteer quarters, and flight and outdoor cages overlooking the Aegean. Volunteers must make a 3-month commitment and work full time in exchange for a free room, partial board, mentoring, and a flexible schedule. Internships can often be arranged, and positions are available year-round. http://www.ekpazp.gr/multi158/
This is a tiny sampling of the myriad volunteer vacation opportunities available throughout Europe. Make sure to thoroughly research any organization before committing, and be especially aware of additional out-of-pocket expenses.
