Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in Greece
- The Greek economy continues to face major issues steming from unemployment and an inefficient public sector.
- Economic challenges, such as the global economic downturn and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, could have exacerbated poverty in Chios.
- Local communities are struggling with the drop in tourism to the island
- Some rural areas, including certain parts of Chios, might face additional challenges due to limited economic opportunities and services compared to urban centres.
- Greece has faced economic challenges for several years, including high unemployment rates, financial instability, and austerity measures
HOW can you help?
- Assist in community focused projects
- Help to improve the conditions of local schools and other buildings
- Help in restorations, seasonal activities, to general maintenance work within schools and public places
- Be prepared to work in all weather - hot or cold!
WHAT you can do?
- Paint local classrooms and make them a nicer environment for the children
- Work as a team with volunteers from around the world
- Bring your energy and enthusiam!
- Help with general maintenance work, watering the garden and painting
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Organisation & Charity
- Over 30 Years Expertise Globally
- Low Program Fees - From US$295
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: COMMUNITY SUPPORT
LOCATION: CHIOS, GREECE
START DATES: 1st & 3rd Sunday in Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Sep, Oct and Nov.
ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE (SHARED ROOMS)
MIN DURATION: 2 WEEKS
MIN AGE: 18+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Full payment & documents required no later than 2 weeks before departure, intermediate level of English, valid visa, Criminal background check required
Overview
This project, driven by the local community, encompasses a range of activities dedicated to enhancing the aesthetics of community institutions across various regions of Chios Island. These projects are not connected to the refugee crisis, and focus on local residents on Chios island.
Following years of enduring economic turmoil coupled with the more recent refugee influx and the Covid-19 pandemic, the infrastructure of Chios Island’s public establishments has deteriorated. These establishments are grappling with the challenge of securing finances and manpower to undertake crucial developmental tasks.
Apprentices, interns, and volunteers channel their enthusiasm into enhancing the infrastructure of local public institutions, including schools and elderly care homes that serve the community. Daycare centres, homes for the elderly, and schools offer invaluable services within the local vicinity, managing to operate with minimal resources. However, as each year concludes, there remains limited funding for maintaining the physical structures, underscoring the increasing urgency for regular upkeep and renewal efforts.
Classrooms and recreational areas should not only facilitate but also inspire learning, and this is precisely the goal of the local initiative through its voluntary programs. Simultaneously, parks and other communal spaces such as beaches and trails suffer from inadequate maintenance and litter accumulation. With your active contribution, we can provide support for Chios’s community, enabling you to play a key role in creating a lasting impact.
*For transportation to and from the project, and on weekends, volunteers are advised renting a car as a good option. There is also a public bus service on the island but please note, this can be limited.
*Please note there are also cultural sensitivities around visible tattoos, piercings, and religious attire during the placement, please get in touch if any questions.
Please Note
The following dates are the Greek National Holidays, on these days public institutions remain closed, public transportation is limited/altered and participants in any of our projects do not work on any of these dates.
- 23 December 2023 to 7 January 2024 -> Christmas Holidays
- 18 March 2024 -> Clean Monday
- 25 March 2024 -> Annunciation of the Virgin Mary/ Independence Day
- 27 April 2024 to 12 May 2024 -> Greek Orthodox Easter Holidays/ Spring Break
- 1 May 2024 -> Labour Day
- 24 June 2024 -> Holy Spirit
- 22 July 2024 -> Saint Markella/ Patron Saint of the Island
- 15 August 2024 -> Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- 28 October 2024 -> Ohi Day/ Independence Day
- 17 November 2024 -> Chios Island’s Independence Day
- 21 December 2024 to 7 January 2025 -> Christmas Holidays
Location
Chios island has beaches and hills that are simply breathtaking. However, while you’re exploring the charming villages and historic sites, you might notice that not all parts of Chios are as wealthy as they seem. Some areas face money problems and struggle with poverty. Despite these challenges, Chios has a unique character. As you wander through the old villages and admire the ancient buildings, you’ll get a sense of the island’s history. Nature enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either; the island presents many hiking opportunities, a diverse range of plant and animal life, and the stunning coastal scenery.
Project Tasks
- Foster community support through a wide array of tasks, including restoration projects, seasonal activities, and maintenance efforts within schools and public areas.
- Actively assist local residents by engaging in this initiative.
- Contribute to the betterment of the community by participating in various tasks that benefit schools and public spaces.
Food & Accommodation
Our volunteer accommodation, consists of dormitory-style rooms and can accommodate up to 10-15 guests each. You can expect to share a room with up to 4 other volunteers of the same gender. The accommodation is situated within walking distance from supermarkets, grocery stores, pharmacies as well as bakeries, bars and restaurants.
Each accommodation has shared western bathrooms with shower. Wi-Fi is also available for free at the accommodation. It is the responsibility of the volunteer to ensure their room is kept tidy. During the hot summer months, please note that only light bedding is provided in the form of a bottom and light top sheet. Towels are not provided so you need to bring our own towel. The accommodations’ temperature is controlled with an A/C system, in order for it to work, all windows and doors, have to be closed.
Volunteers are also responsible for cleaning their accommodation, also the dishware, glassware, cutlery and cooking utensils that they use. One important thing to note is that tap water is not drinkable in Chios Island including at the accommodation, therefore you need to budget extra to buy bottled water from a nearby store. You will also need to budget for your transportation during the program including travelling from and to the placement. In case you need to take a bus to your placement you will need two tickets per day, 5 times per week and the one way ticket costs less than 2 euro (estimated).
* In case of loss or damage has been incurred to the accommodation or to the property of the Organisation caused by the volunteer, the cost of the damage will be deducted from the bond of 50€ and in case the damage exceeds the amount of the bond, the volunteer will have to cover any additional amount needed for repair/replacement.
* For those traveling as a group with friends, we cannot guarantee that you will work at the same placement as some centres have only one place for volunteers. Due to the limited number of beds between start dates you might stay in different rooms.
No meals are provided on this program. Volunteers are responsible for organizing their own meals, and since the accommodation is in walking distance you can find grocery stores, supermarkets, bakeries, restaurants, cafeterias and mini markets. It is also possible to order delivery. The accommodation is equipped with basic kitchen utensils and cutlery as well as a fridge, kitchen stoves, microwave oven and kettle.
Standard
Projects
- Community Support - Chios
- Kindergarten Support - Chios
- Teaching Support - Chios
-
First Week - $380
-
Consecutive Weeks - $330 p/week
What's Included
-
Accommodation
-
Airport Pickup
-
1 Day Orientation
-
24/7 In-Country Support
-
Project Materials & Equipment
-
Pre-departure Expert Advice
-
Preperation Tools & Checklists
-
Certificate of Completion
- Application fee is one off per person (unlimited placements)
- Click Here to convert the below prices to your local currency
- Discounts may apply if travelling in a pair or group!
- All credit card /international fees included in below pricing! 🙂
FAQ
Volunteers do not need to be qualified or experienced in order to participate on this project, but they need to be active and energetic, interested in physical work and not being afraid to work under the hot sun during summer and cold wet winter while getting their hands dirty!
- Accommodation
- Arrival airport transfer (Sun arrivals)
- In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
- Fundraising support
- University course credits (where applicable)
- Certificate of Completion
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
- Daily Meals
Orientation will be held on the first Monday morning of the program and is split in two parts. During the first part, our local team will provide an introduction to the program, rules and expectations, health and safety, do’s and don’ts in Chios, basic vocabulary in Greek language and basic cultural knowledge.
Volunteers will also be asked to read carefully and sign the “Code of Conduct” and “Child protection Policy” as well as learn about their specific placement during the orientation. During the second part our local team will provide a short tour around the city in order to familiarise with the city (closest supermarkets, pharmacies, etc.).
Arrivals are every first and third Sunday of each month depending on the availability of each project.
*Arrivals will not be available for the period that each project is closed and in case the arrival coincides with (same day, one day before or one day after) a National Holiday.
We ask that volunteers arrive in Chios for pickup anytime between 8:00 AM and 9:00 PM on Sundays.
Arriving by Flight
You can arrive at Chios Island National Airport (JKH) for pickup no later than the Sunday before your program start date. You will be met at the airport by a member of the team, who will take you to the accommodation.
*It’s important to note that pick up is only provided for flights arriving between 8am and 9pm. If the flight arrives outside of this timeframe, you can wait until a suitable hour for the local team to collect you, or make your own way to the accommodation.
* Accommodation is provided from Sunday through to (and including) the Friday night of your final week.
Arriving Overland
If you are planning to arrive via ferry from elsewhere in Greece, then a pickup in Chios city port can be arranged. It’s important to note that pick up in Chios city can only be provided between 8am and 9pm.
Once you are sure of your travel plans, you will need to contact us to arrange a suitable time and place to meet in Chios City.
Post Pick-up
Once you have been picked up, you’ll be provided with information and details for the next few days in regards to meeting the rest of the local team, other volunteers and your orientation. During check-in, you will fill in the check-in form that includes your personal information and the rules of the accommodation as well as a waiver form.
In addition, you will be required to pay a bond of 50€ for the accommodation key and bedding dishware, glassware, cutlery and cooking utensils, or any part of the accommodation. This bond will be returned at check-out, provided that the key is returned and that there is also no damage (by fault of the volunteer) to the bedding or accommodation.
Return Airport Transfer
Volunteers are responsible for organizing their own return transport to the airport, and taxi numbers are available at the accommodation, and from the local team. You should budget approximately 25€ – 30€ for your return to Chios Island National Airport (JKH) from the accommodation.
You will volunteer for approximately 3 to 6 hours per day, 5 days per week.
You will have plenty of free time to explore the island and socialise!
You will either work alone or in groups and your tasks will be taking place in an outdoor or indoor environment depending of the time of the year, as well as the needs of the local community. Volunteers’ tasks on this project can be different activities in public institutions. like carrying out general maintenance work, painting different areas, doing graffiti, watering the garden,etc. in schools, parks and other public places.
Here are some of the best things to do on Chios Island…
Explore Historical Sites: Immerse yourself in the island’s rich history by visiting ancient sites like Anavatos, a fortified village, and the medieval villages of Mesta and Pyrgi with their unique architecture.
Relax on Beautiful Beaches: Chios offers stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters. Relax on the sandy shores of beaches like Mavra Volia, Karfas, and Komi.
Sample Local Cuisine: Indulge in the flavours of Chios by trying its unique local dishes. Don’t miss out on tasting Mastiha-based treats and fresh seafood.
Visit Monasteries and Museums: Discover the island’s religious heritage by visiting monasteries like Nea Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore museums that showcase the island’s history and culture.
Enjoy Nature: Hike through picturesque trails, exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the island. The Kampos area is known for its scenic beauty.
Admire Byzantine Architecture: Chios boasts impressive Byzantine architecture. Explore churches like Agios Minas and Agios Isidoros to appreciate their intricate designs.
Take a Day Trip to Turkey: As Chios is close to Turkey, consider taking a day trip to explore the nearby Turkish town of Cesme for a cross-cultural experience.
Experience Local Festivals: If your visit coincides with local festivals, such as the Mastiha Festival, join in the celebrations to experience Chios’s cultural vibrancy.
Explore Cave Networks: Venture into intriguing cave networks like the Cave of Olympi, where legends and mysteries abound.
Top places to visit in Greece…
Athens: The capital city is a treasure trove of ancient history, with iconic sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon.
Santorini: Known for its stunning sunsets and white-washed buildings, this island is a romantic getaway with breathtaking views.
Mykonos: Famous for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, Mykonos offers a lively atmosphere and charming streets.
Crete: The largest Greek island boasts a mix of ancient ruins, picturesque villages, and captivating landscapes.
Delphi: An archaeological site with a rich history and the famous Temple of Apollo.
Meteora: A unique site featuring monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, providing incredible views.
Olympia: The birthplace of the Olympic Games, showcasing ancient athletic history.
Rhodes: Known for its medieval Old Town, stunning beaches, and ancient ruins.
Corfu: A lush island with Venetian architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful coastline.
Nafplio: A charming town with well-preserved architecture, offering a glimpse into Greece’s past.
Thessaloniki: Greece’s second-largest city, known for its vibrant culture, history, and waterfront.
Zakynthos: Famous for Navagio Beach and its turquoise waters, this island is a paradise for beach lovers.
Chania: A picturesque town in Crete know for its Venetian harbour and narrow streets.
These are just a few of the many incredible places Greece has to offer, each with its own unique charm and attractions.
***Applicants must hold: a valid VISA or European citizenship in order to apply for this program as we are not able to send an invitation for a VISA application.
We must receive full payment and all required documents 2 weeks before departure.
- *Please note the schedule will vary depending on the needs of the cooperating institutions and the particular project.
- *Volunteering hours must be strictly respected, and volunteers are not permitted to skip hours, unless they have a serious health problem.
- *For those traveling as a group with friends, we cannot guarantee that you will work at the same placement as some institutions have only one place for volunteers. We can, however, do our best to accommodate you all together.
- *Due to the limited number of beds between the hosting places, you might stay in different rooms.
- *Volunteers need to also take into account and budget for their transportation during the program including travelling to and from the placement.
Our Organization holds accreditations certifying its ability to realize high quality volunteering projects. As such we must follow the guidelines for the proper functioning of the program, as all programs that aim to do professional work and offer the best experience to their volunteers. Since the volunteers are role models and their coexistence with the local community is essential for a healthy environment of cooperation and enjoying the experience, volunteers must be aware of and adhere to the following rules:
- Respect the work schedule.
- Meet a criteria of appearance/ behaviour that is acceptable to the local Greek community. This corresponds to religion, drugs, sexuality, terrorism and politics, or to broach or promote in any way the aforementioned subjects, during your placement. Please note there are also cultural sensitivities around visible tattoos, piercings, and religious attire during the placement, please get in touch if any questions.
- Do not come to work under the influence of alcohol or drugs or do so during work hours.
- Smoking and alcohol consumption is not permitted inside and outside of the placements or accommodation.
- Respect the silent hours of the accommodation.
- Respect the staff and the other volunteers.
- Sexual harassment is totally prohibited.
- Use or possession of any kind of drugs is considered illegal and considered as a criminal action in Greece.
- Quiet hours are from 3pm and 5:30pm and from 11pm to 8am – during these periods volunteers are not to make excessive noise. This is law in Greece and excessive noise during these hours can result in fines.
- Mobile phones and internet use is not permitted during working hours at placements.
- Volunteers are responsible for cleaning their own dishware, glassware, cutlery and cooking utensils that they use.
- Due to a lack of plumbing infrastructure, toilet paper and other objects are not to be flushed down or put into toilets. Volunteers need to use the waste bins provided
The following dates are the Greek National Holidays, on these days public institutions remain closed, public transportation is limited/altered and participants in any of our projects do not work on any of these dates.
- 23 December 2023 to 7 January 2024 -> Christmas Holidays
- 18 March 2024 -> Clean Monday
- 25 March 2024 -> Annunciation of the Virgin Mary/ Independence Day
- 27 April 2024 to 12 May 2024 -> Greek Orthodox Easter Holidays/ Spring Break
- 1 May 2024 -> Labour Day
- 24 June 2024 -> Holy Spirit
- 22 July 2024 -> Saint Markella/ Patron Saint of the Island
- 15 August 2024 -> Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- 28 October 2024 -> Ohi Day/ Independence Day
- 17 November 2024 -> Chios Island’s Independence Day
- 21 December 2024 to 7 January 2025 -> Christmas Holidays
As the southernmost country in Europe, Greece enjoys the longest coastline in Europe and with over 6000 islands in total and around 3000 years of history it is a fascinating, diverse and unique cultural destination.
Greece is considered the birth place of civilisation and highly influential in ancient times, is often called the cradle of Western civilization. Athens, the capital, features historic landmarks including the 5th-century B.C. Acropolis citadel with the Parthenon temple. Greece is also known for its beaches, from the black sands of Santorini to the party resorts of Mykonos.
Greece has gennerally sunny climate throughout the year but can get quite cold in the north during winter, with snow in some areas.
Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with its summer from June to August. Temperatures get go up to 40 degrees celsius in the summer, but may be cooler up north or by the coast. This is a popular time to visit.
March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn) are good times to travel when days are still warm.
Greece has a rich and vibrant culture and it’s people are very passionate about their traditions, language, food and music. The Greek people will often gather their large families to eat around the dinner table, where they love to socialise.
Around 98% of people in Greece are Orthodox Christians, so many traditons and festivals are celebrated around this faith. Greece is also the home of ancient civilizations, going back 5000 years. From the ancient ruins to modern day art galleries and museums, Greece is full of culture and history.
30 Years Non Profit Experience
IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.
Affordable Volunteer Travel
Safe & Responsible Projects
Work Experience & University Credits
GoGetFunding is a Crowd funding site which offers a simple and professional online fundraising solution to help fund a portion of your trip or even a donation toward your chosen project. Simply create a fundraising page to share your story via social media platforms such as facebook & twitter.
We encourage all our Greece volunteers to fundraise to supply as many resources as possible to the local people and also to cover volunteer travel costs where required.
Weekends & Extra Tours
