Italy Volunteering

Feel like saving the world this week? Volunteering can be a powerful and fulfilling experience, especially when combined with the thrill of traveling in a new place. Whatever shape your philanthropic cravings may take, opportunities to satisfy them exist throughout Italy. As the former home to the ancient Etruscans, Greeks, and numerous iterations of the Roman Empire, Italy has more than its share of relics and tourists who want to explore them. As the country strives both to share its ancient treasures and protect them, demand is high for volunteers willing to assist in the preservation effort. Even with minimal prior experience, hundreds of opportunities exist for English speakers interested in the art, architecture, and culture of the many groups that have occupied the Italian peninsula throughout history.

Most people who volunteer in Italy do so on a short-term basis at organizations that make use of drop-in or once-a-week volunteers. The best way to find opportunities that match your interests and schedule may be to check with local or national volunteer centers similar to those listed below, which organize work camps devoted to a number of cultural and environmental causes. Opportunities range from programs for community development to camps dedicated to ecological and historical preservation. Demand for volunteers among these programs varies depending on the time of year and the duration of a volunteer’s stay, so it’s always best to check with an organization before making any definitive plans. As always, read up before heading out.

Those looking for longer, more intensive volunteer opportunities usually choose to go through a parent organization that takes care of logistical details and often provides a group environment and support system—for a fee. There are two main types of organizations—religious and secular—although there are rarely restrictions on participation for either. Websites like www.volunteerabroad.com, www.servenet.org, and www.idealist.org allow you to search for volunteer openings both in your country and abroad.

I Have To Pay To Volunteer? Many volunteers are surprised to learn that some organizations require large fees or “donations,” but don’t go calling them scams just yet. While such fees may seem ridiculous at first, they often keep the organization afloat, covering airfare, room, board, and administrative expenses for the volunteers. (Other organizations must rely on private donations and government subsidies.) If you’re concerned about how a program spends its fees, request an annual report or finance account. A reputable organization won’t refuse to inform you of how volunteer money is spent. Pay-to-volunteer programs might be a good idea for young travelers who are looking for more support and structure (such as pre-arranged transportation and housing) or anyone who would rather not deal with the uncertainty of creating a volunteer experience from scratch.

Ecotourism

Italy’s expansive coastline and mild mainland environment play host to thousands of visitors annually. Tourists and locals alike are able to play a role in preserving the environment that has made ...more

Art, Culture, And Restoration

Italy’s rich cultural heritage, which dates back to Ancient Rome, is increasingly in danger of crumbling or being overrun by modern life. Volunteers looking for a labor-intensive way to engage with ...more

Youth And The Community

Community-based projects are among the most rewarding volunteer experiences. Programs listed below promote interactive humanitarian work through English language programs and projects aimed at assisting ...more