5 Beach Livin’ Volunteer Programs in Greece
Photo by: jonny segments
If you’re ready to put the partying on hold for something more meaningful but just can’t part with the beach, volunteering in Greece is the solution. Doing good in the land of endless warm sand will spice up your life resume while putting a few (curly) hairs on your chest. Mount Olympus and the Parthenon have been around since the beginning of time and will patiently wait while you volunteer your services in other parts of Greece. Follow OTP’s guide to get elbows deep on a budget.
VFP opened their first international work-camp in 1982. They’re more present in developing countries, but give your charitable side a treat in Greece. Projects are typically focused on community improvement and restoration— like harvesting plants, cleaning footpaths for tourists, aiding in preparation for festivals and protecting and cleaning beaches. The initial fee is $300 (which includes food and lodging) and programs run anywhere from two weeks to a year. Your working and living location depends on the project, so choose wisely; that old jail restoration project on the outskirts of Athens won’t be as fun a stay as beach renovation on an island full of bikinis.
The island of Zakynthos has been hit hard over the past couple of decades with a still-swelling wave of tourism. While this bolsters the wallets of human inhabitants, tourism can take a toll on the livelihood of non-human natives. Earth, Sea, and Sky (not to be confused with Earth, Wind and Fire) was founded in 1999 in reaction to the rapidly declining population of Zakynthos’s migrating birds, sea turtles and the now endangered Mediterranean monk seal. The team’s main focus is to prove that conservation and sustainable tourism can benefit the entire island. This means you’ll be cleaning beaches, rescuing animals, recording flora and fauna and educating fannypack tourists about the environment. You’ll shack up in a private hillside home in the village of Vasilikos, and can spend your time off exploring the island, nicknamed “the flower of the East.” Rates, guidelines and other information (including an internship program) are all laid out in their application.
Photo by: Constantine Alexander M
Formerly known as Fiskardo’s Nautical & Environmental Club, this NGO operates on the island of Kefalonia. Primarily focused on research, environmental awareness and conservation, they have successfully completed several marine-based projects, including the excavation of an ancient shipwreck. They’re now looking for sea-minded volunteers to help finish the Odyssean World Museum in Argostoli. When it opens, museum exhibits will display the organization’s nautical prowess and provide a digitally interactive look into the world of Odysseus. Housing is offered a 10-minute beachside walk away from the museum site. Got some enhanced computer skills and seeking an outlet other than your right hand? They’re especially looking for programming nerds to help develop the final stages of the museum.
World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) has people talking a lot lately… borderline barking. There isn’t a national Greek WWOOF organization, but there are plenty of WWOOF-like hosts that need your help. Work on a farm (often beachside) for a few hours a day, and let them take care of your bed and your meals. There are plenty of fig trees, olive branches and vineyards that need tending, both on the mainland and on the islands. Scroll this list down to Greece and find a host and farm that sounds right for you. WTF is WWOOFing you ask? We got the whole scoop right here.
CHI is an exchange program that’s been carefully blending cultures for over 30 years. Once you’ve filled out their online form about you and what sort of host you’re looking for, CHI-masters pair you with a family in the country of your choice. Your only job is to teach conversational English to the best of your ability—with no teaching experience necessary. You’re paid with food and a place to lay your head. Since the required teaching time maxes out at 15 hours a week, there is plenty of time to get to know the host family and explore the new surroundings. Because the work is easy and light and the accommodations relatively swank, CHI’s rates are understandably higher than most organizations (call it a lazy ass tax). Homestays are available for one to three months; the longer you stay, the less you pay. Knock out three months if you want to really revolutionize your life—and theirs.
While Greece is far from a third-world country, it can still use a hand. Its collapsing economy is a scalding issue, but that heat is best left for government officials and journalists. Volunteer to reap the benefits of low-cost living and keep the sand lodged in your crevices for as long as you please.
A mind and body traveller who thrives on recollection and anticipation, all the while decorating the crossroads.
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VERY cool!