Greece is a beautiful country in which everyone should spend some time. However, a long trip to Greece can be costly and is not affordable for everyone. Fortunately, there are many opportunities for volunteers and philanthropists in the country. Often these opportunities include a place to stay or even a small amount of money. Besides, you can make a positive impact on the local community. Here are some of the top volunteer and philanthropy opportunities in Greece:

The five volunteer opportunities in Greece:

Refugee and immigrant support

Greece has been a major transit point for refugees and immigrants arriving in Europe, and many organizations offer support to these individuals. Volunteers can help with everything from providing basic necessities like food and shelter, to helping refugees and immigrants integrate into their new communities or teaching them English.

Environmental conservation

Greece is home to a diverse and fragile ecosystem, and many organizations work to protect and preserve the natural environment. Volunteers can get involved in projects such as beach clean-ups, habitat restoration, and conservation research.

Health care

Greece has a well-developed healthcare system. However, there is a huge shortage of healthcare workers due to the financial crisis. Volunteers can get involved in projects such as working in hospitals or clinics, providing health education, or assisting with community health initiatives. 

Cultural preservation

Greece has a long and rich cultural history, and organizations try to preserve and promote the country’s cultural heritage. Volunteers can get involved in projects such as helping to restore historical sites, working in museums, or assisting with cultural events.

Animal welfare

Greece is home to many endangered animals. Welfare organizations work to protect and care for animals in need. Volunteers can get involved in projects such as helping to care for abandoned or injured animals, assisting with spay and neuter programs, or working in animal shelters. Some animals you could work with are: bears, wolfs, turtles, and dolphins. But also stray dogs and cats require help in the country.

Why should you volunteer?

I am a big fan of volunteer work and have done this myself during my years in the Netherlands. I worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters, one of the oldest and largest youth mentoring organizations in the US, but with affiliates all around the world. What I did was mentor a child. Allowing her to be herself, have fun, and discover the world with me. What I gained was a sense of satisfaction I could not reach within my day job. Besides, I met many new people and even expanded my own world. 

Unfortunately, BBBS is not in Greece yet, so I will not be able to continue with this organization next year. However, I do want to continue my work as a volunteer as soon as I can. Volunteering abroad is not only a great way to help others or the world. It is also a way to meet new people and explore a new country!

My favorite volunteer opportunities in Greece

• Arcturos
  Not many people know that Greece is home to wild brown bears. And if environmental organizations wouldn’t have been active, they will soon disappear from the Greek mountains. Arcturos is one of the organizations protecting these bears and their habitat.
• The National Marine Park of Alonissos
  This marine park was the first park established in Greece and is today the largest marine protected area in Europe, with 2.265 km2. The N.M.P.A.N.S. aims to protect and preserve rare species and their habitats, like dolphins, seals, and sea turtles. But the organization also focuses on archeological, cultural, and historical significance.
• RefugeeED
  RefugeeED is an organization that provides education to refugees in Greece. Greece has 166,000 refugees. Adults often don’t speak Greek or English, and 86% of the children do not go to school. RefugeeED helps to set up education for these people, to give them a chance at a new life. 

Overall, there are many opportunities for volunteers and philanthropists to make a positive impact in Greece. Whether you are interested in working with refugees and immigrants, preserving the environment, or promoting cultural heritage, there is a volunteer or philanthropy opportunity in Greece that is perfect for you.