Volunteer Abroad in Italy
Visit the home of art, culture, and gastronomy. Revel in the abundance of masterpieces and ease into Italy’s unique way of life. Volunteers with great social skills and an eagerness to work and teach will find their perfect volunteer projects in Italy. Those concerned about preserving the Italian archeological and natural treasures can contribute to a project dedicated to cultural conservation. Taste mindblowing pizza, excellent coffee, and the original gelato while you volunteer and help those who are less fortunate.
It’s no secret that Italy is at the top of the list of places to visit for many people. This is your chance to experience a European gem in a very different way. Witness what tourists never get the chance to see and contribute to helping the Italian community. Support this magnificent country and take the opportunity to get in touch with the locals.
Whether you’re teaching English, helping refugees, or joining a program for special needs, you will make a difference during your volunteering experience. Before we continue to discuss the different volunteer opportunities in Italy, let’s take a look at some interesting facts:
- Italy has more Unesco world heritage than any other country in the world.
- There are 2 independent states in Italy namely Vatican City and San Marino.
- Italy has suffered more earthquakes than any other European country.
- The highest peak in Europe is found in Italy. It is part of the Alps and called Monte Bianco.
- The capital of Italy, Rome is also called the Eternal City because it is over 3000 years old.
Why Volunteer in Italy?
As a developed country, many people believe Italy doesn’t need any help when it comes to volunteering. Each country faces its own challenges, however, and volunteering in Italy is just as meaningful as volunteering in any other country in the world.
Italy faces migration issues because it’s the first point of entry for refugees who are escaping their country. Transitioning to a new country and culture has proven to be challenging for both the host country as the refugees. Although many volunteer in Italy programs are focused on community work, there are also volunteer jobs in Italy that are focused on the environment and protecting its precious marine life.
What do Volunteers do in Italy?
Most international volunteer projects in Italy are dedicated to helping the local community. Migration, to start off with, is a hot topic in Italy. If you have experience in social work, volunteering in Italy will be an interesting and challenging opportunity you don’t want to miss out on. Volunteers eager to help with a conservation project in Italy will also find a program they love.
Here is an overview of the different volunteer opportunities in Italy:
Health Care
If you have a medical background, volunteer for a medical mission trip and support local health care providers to give migrants and homeless communities the care they deserve.
Archaeology
Volunteers who are interested in archaeology can volunteer for an archaeology conservation project. Help preserve some of Naples’ ancient heritage that can reveal more about Italy’s rich past.
Marine Life Conservation
If you’re passionate about marine life, why not work for a marine conservation project to protect dolphins, whales, and the delicate marine eco-system.
How Can I Volunteer to Help Refugees in Italy?
The migration of refugees is a hot topic in Europe. Integration within the new community is a difficult task because they aren’t always welcomed by the local inhabitants. Help the refugee and migrant community gain a foothold in Europe by helping in shelters. Educate them, give them the necessary health care, and support activities tailored to their long-term integration.
Here is a list of some of the tasks you may be involved in during an Italian refugee volunteer program:
- Food, accommodation, medical and psychological assistance
- Language lessons
- Legal and bureaucratic assistance, specifically in regards to applying for asylum
- Support in the job-seeking process
- Training courses and workshops
- Intercultural exchange, gathering information and support in verbalizing stories and information in regards to their migration, that can be used for their asylum application and for finding work.
How do I become a Medical Volunteer in Italy?
Volunteer for a medical mission trip in Italy and support local healthcare providers. The aim is to give minorities like migrants, refugees, and other minorities the care they deserve.
Volunteers with a medical background can gain international work experience which will definitely boost their career,
How to Teach English in Italy
Although Italy is very proud of their culture and heritage, their knowledge of English is poor in comparison with other European countries. itage, their knowledge of English is poor in comparison with other European countries. Volunteers eager to help change this can work at an English teaching project in Italy. If English isn’t your strongest point but you’re good at sports, take a look at some of the other projects where you can put your teaching skills to use and support the local community.
- Teaching English in schools
- Preparing lessons
- Tutoring students after school
- Engaging with students
How to Volunteer for Conservation in Italy
Volunteers keen to lend a hand with the conservation of archeology and marine life can help out at a program dedicated to one of the smallest natural protected areas of Europe. Help with research, monitoring, and Geo-archaeological analysis. Working on a volunteer program like this is an excellent opportunity for archeology or science students.
There are excellent opportunities in Italy that will excite all types of volunteers. Check them out and see whether there is a match between you and the Italian volunteer program. Get ready for some hard work and a life-changing experience in one of the most magical countries in the world.
Where to Volunteer in Italy?
The majority of volunteer programs in Italy are located in Naples. Located in the south of Italy by the sea, it’s one of those places that has it all. Admire Mount Vesuvius in the distance while you take in Naples’ historical significance and explore the ancient city of Pompeii. Experience Italy and all its stereotypes from reckless drivers, big gestures, excellent food, and so much more, in Naples.
Volunteer programs in Naples are focused on the community. Teachers, medical volunteers, and humanitarians are more than welcome to support volunteer projects. If community work is not really your thing, why not volunteer for marine and archeology conservation?
How Much Does it Cost to Volunteer in Italy?
The suggested daily budget for volunteers in Italy is between US$ 55 and US$140. This is an estimate made considering the average price of some of the services you might need or want to buy. It gives you a general overview of how much things cost so you can save the money you need. Depending on where you are in Italy, things will be more affordable in smaller towns than in large cities.
Can I Volunteer in Italy for Free?
There are some very affordable teaching programs in Italy that include accommodation. You can filter and search for volunteer opportunities within your budget on our platform. Our live chat team is always happy to help you with this.
Please take into account that free volunteer opportunities often don’t include accommodation. This could turn out to be more expensive than choosing a paid volunteer opportunity that includes room and board.
Make sure to read the program requirements so you have a good overview of what is included and what isn’t.
Good to Know Before You Volunteer Abroad in Italy
Before starting your international volunteer program in Italy, there are a few things you should think about first. Italy is generally a safe place to travel with a low crime rate, few endemic diseases, and a great healthcare system. The following list might help you with your travel planning and your time on site:
Communication
- It’s good to know a few Italian words in remote places where many people don’t speak it. This will also come in handy if you work with Italian people.
- Bella Figura is an important concept in Italy meaning that presenting yourself well in all circumstances is important. Italians take pride in beauty.
- People express themselves in a passionate manner. This may initially take you by surprise. Physical contact is common in Italy so keep this in mind.
- The family is very important to Italians.
Money and Payment
- Credit cards will be accepted in most big stores but local taverns will most likely only accept cash. Be sure you have enough cash on hand.
- ATM’s are widely available on the mainland and larger islands. Remote places may lack banks and ATMs so be sure to check whether your destination has one and whether you need to bring more cash.
- It’s not custom to give tips in Italy and it isn’t expected.
Is it Safe to Volunteer in Italy?
Before embarking on this once-in-a-lifetime international volunteer experience in Italy, there are a few things you may want to take into account. Travel always holds some adventure but your safety is imperative to enjoy it to the fullest:
- Although the crime rate has been increasing over the last years, Italy is still a very safe country. Except for some neighborhoods in Rome, like the park Villa Borghese, where it would be preferable not to walk alone at nights, the whole country is safe.
- Italians are known for their incautious driving. Take this into account if you decide to rent a car.
- In case of emergencies, dial 112. You can also dial 113 for the police, 115 for the fire department, or 118 for first aid.
- Avoid hitchhiking and accepting rides from strangers.
- Carry a basic first-aid kit in case of emergencies.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
- Don’t leave your luggage or other personal belongings unattended.
- When you go hiking, always inform someone about your whereabouts before leaving.
- Make sure you have travel insurance for the time you are away. This is easy to come by and will ensure you are covered when anything happens to you while you travel.
- Take copies of your passport and credit cards and store them separately just in case.
Health Advice
Italy is a developed country with excellent facilities, so health is less of a concern here for volunteers. Nevertheless, to make your stay at the Italian volunteer program as enjoyable as possible take into account the following:
- You can go to a Farmacia(pharmacy) for minor health issues as they will be well equipped to help you. You may even get certain prescription meds over the counter.
- If you require a hospital you can go to the Ospedale where they will help you.
- There are doctors spread across most cities with opening times mentioned at the door. You can show up and wait for your turn.
- Make sure you bring suitable rain gear and a windproof jacket if you are volunteering in autumn or early spring.
- If you have any health problems or take medication, be sure to bring the medication along with the prescription with you. The prescription can be important when passing through customs.
Packing Essentials
After reading all of the above, we’re sure you’re ready to pack your bags to volunteer abroad at a program in Italy. Before you stuff your backpack with swimwear, shorts, and sunglasses, we’d like to help you by giving you some useful tips you may not have thought of before you travel:
- Travel Insurance
- Money, cards, credit cards
- Passport
- Power adapter suitable for Italy (220V) (perhaps more than 1 if you’re heavy on electronics)
- Waterproof phone case to protect against dust, scratches, and water
- Water shoes for spending time at or around the beach
- Personal medication, first-aid kit
- Sun hat
- Raincoat
- Scarf
- Quick-dry towels
- Suitable footwear for hiking etc
Who Can Volunteer in Italy?
As you will have noticed by now, there are many different projects that expect different work skills and abilities from their international volunteers. Some programs will also require volunteers to stay for a certain amount of time. You can find out more about the specific requirements for each project on their program page. Here are some general requirements that apply to most projects while you volunteer abroad in Italy:
- You need to be at least 18 years old for most of the volunteer projects. When in doubt, we advise you to get in touch with the local project manager. Some projects accept volunteers under the age of 16.
- You need to have basic English skills to do volunteer work in Italy.
- Depending on the project you’re interested in, you might need to provide a criminal background check and a health declaration before volunteering.
How to Volunteer in Italy
Take a look at the following 3 steps that will prepare you for your volunteer work in Italy and an unforgettable adventure abroad:
- Check whether there’s a match between you and the Italian volunteer opportunity by looking at their requirements.
- Take a look at the location of the project and decide whether it’s a place you’re excited about traveling to.
- Get in touch with the organization and see whether your expectations and schedules match up. If you want to volunteer in Italy for a week or for a longer period of time, check the project descriptions for more details.
Insurance (Health & Travel)
We recommend all our volunteers to get both health and travel insurance. In fact, this is even a requirement for most programs abroad. Get in touch with your program contact person in Italy to find out if an insurance plan is already in place for volunteers.
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