Community projects in Portugal

This programme 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 programmes, environmental initiatives, or community outreach projects, taking language classes alongside these projects in order to fully immerse yourself in the culture.

Every programme 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 programme 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 aged 3 to 5. 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 will 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 how 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 programme. 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 in homelessness, the rate of which increased by 78% in Portugal due to the real-estate crisis and a rise in drug addiction.

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.