This program in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, features three different projects, each focusing on addressing specific issues, including access to education, food waste, the environment, etc.. This vibrant city offers a rich culture and history, incredible architecture, delicious cuisine and stunning beaches, all just waiting to be explored.

One of the community projects in Lisbon focuses primarily on fighting against food waste and feeding those in need. The number of people, both families and individuals, in need has been increasing in recent years, making this project particularly vital.

The childcare project is also important as it contributes to the healthy development and future of the children. This rewarding experience in turn benefits the community as a whole.

The culture and community project will allow you to explore the city in depth as well as make meaningful impacts on the community. You could be involved in educational programs, environmental initiatives, or community outreach projects, taking language classes alongside these projects in order to fully immerse yourself in the culture.

Every program includes at least a basic Portuguese lesson as well as a walking tour throughout the city to see the local attractions and landmarks.

Education & childcare

The education and childcare program in Lisbon prioritises providing education, assistance and child care to those in need, encouraging children’s healthy development. You will be working with young children usually within the ages of 3 and 5 years old. You will also be working closely with the other teachers. Through this project you will not only care for the local children and teach them basic English, but would also support the local teachers and staff, gaining practical experience in teaching young children.

Your main tasks may include helping out in basic routines such as naptime, lunch and other activities. You will also be able to contribute to the lesson planning, preparation, and other administrative tasks as required by the class teacher.

This kindergarten also prioritises teaching socio-emotional abilities such as critical thinking, expressing ideas, how to be grateful, sharing, being generous, being empathetic, and acknowledging others may feel. These skills are also very important for the children to develop.

There are two schools that volunteers can help at, depending on the need. One is attached to a Catholic church, though volunteers do not need to share this faith to participate in the program. The other location has a playground that is fairly empty and therefore volunteers are encouraged to use creativity in coming up with games to play with the children, given the materials available, such as tires and paint.

Food waste

This community project in Lisbon aims to reduce food waste and contribute to feeding those in need. Big cities such as Lisbon have recently noted an increase of homelessness, the rate of which increased by 78% in Portugal due to the real-estate crisis and an increase of drug addictions.

This project ensures that good food is not wasted and people do not go hungry. By actively promoting social and environmental responsibility, both individuals and companies can participate in a circular economy producing social good on the community level.

Your day-to-day tasks may include collecting good food that would be wasted at restaurants, delivering meals to those in need, preparing food, serving families and individuals, organising and storing food, maintaining equipment and facilities, etc.

Community project

This project is a unique approach to experiencing Portugal. You will have city tours, trips to the market and visits to iconic landmarks and scenic villages. Alongside these experiences you will engage in activities at the Community Engagement Project and be able to make a difference in the local community. You will immerse yourself in the culture and history of the coastal town of Cascais.

Some of the tasks you may be engaging in could include supporting education initiatives, participating in sustainable projects, or helping with local organisations. Regardless of the specific activities you do, you will leave a lasting mark on the individuals you encounter and the community as a whole.

This project allows for a transformative journey beyond typical tourism. The aim of this project is to create meaningful connections between travellers and the local community, supporting cultural exchange while making a positive impact.