Info

Renovating a cultural centre...working in National Parks and Reserves...helping set up a Fairtrade festival...these are just some of the volunteer opportunities available through Concordia in Italy

What is Concordia?
Concordia's aim is to encourage international youth exchange as a means of promoting personal development, greater cultural awareness and international understanding.

What are International Volunteer Projects?
International Volunteer Projects bring together individuals from around the world to participate in two to four week projects. Volunteers work as part of an international team to support community-based initiatives that would not be possible without their help.

What types of project are there?
Over 1500 projects take place every year so there is a wide range of options to choose from. Generally projects fall into the following categories: environmental; construction; renovation; archaeology; agriculture; working with children or youth; social work; working with people with special needs; arts or culture; festival work; and teaching.

Why do an international volunteer project?
To experience different cultures, ideas and beliefs and also share your own...to work alongside local people in local communities, thus gaining a real insight into their country, cultures and traditions...to learn new skills and broaden your horizons...to meet new people and explore new places...to be part of a global movement working towards equality and peace between all people...to make a difference even when you only have a short amount of time to spare.

The main short term programme for the summer, with projects in over 60 countries world wide, is available on our website every year at the end on March. Opportunities are available in winter and spring as well. If you want more information don't hesitate to contact the office.

"Working on the project was a unique experience – I hope to do many more. Everyone should be a volunteer!" (Ruth Simister, Festival project in Italy, 2007).

"As I really didn’t know what to expect about my trip, everything came as a little bit of a surprise. I wasn’t prepared for how beautiful the surrounding countryside could be, how welcome we could be made to fell by the local community or how mixed and interesting the fellow volunteers would be. The most satisfying part of the trip was probably communicating with people from different parts of the world and realizing something through a joint effort" (Rebecca Teulet, Italy 2006)

“Seen a side of Italy not found in a guidebook – Italian life with its food, energy and culture hits you with force” (Liz Woabank, environmental project, Italy, 2001)

Duration

Projects last on average 2-4 weeks

Start Dates

Projects are available year round but the majority take place between June and September.

Costs / Benefits

Registration fee of £150 and volunteers pay their own travel. Food and accommodation are provided on the project.

Requirements

No specific requirements. Most projects are available to volunteers aged 18+, although there is also a selection of projects for volunteers aged 16 and 17. Volunteers should be motivated and committed to the entire lenght of the project.