Volunteering in Puglia

Moving to a new country can be an exciting yet daunting experience. Volunteering is a fantastic way to integrate into the local community, meet like-minded people, and even learn or improve your Italian skills. Puglia, offers a variety of volunteering opportunities that cater to different interests and skills. Here's a guide to help expats navigate the volunteering landscape in Puglia.

Retake

Retake is an international movement dedicated to fighting illegal waste disposal and promoting a culture of respect for public spaces. Volunteers can participate in cleanup events and awareness campaigns. Getting involved is easy; you can join their Facebook group or contact them through their website. The time commitment varies, with events typically lasting a few hours.

Website: retake.org
Location(s): Various towns and cities throughout Puglia
Time Commitment: Varies (typically a few hours per event)

Associazione Culturale MenteLocale

MenteLocale is a cultural association that organizes events, workshops, and language exchange programs. Volunteers can help with event planning, teaching languages, or leading workshops. To get involved, contact them through their website or visit their office in Lecce. The time commitment can range from a few hours a week to more, depending on your involvement.

Website: mentelocale.org
Location(s): Lecce
Time Commitment: A few hours per week or more

Oasi WWF di Torre Guaceto

The WWF Oasis of Torre Guaceto is a protected natural area where volunteers can participate in environmental education, conservation projects, and guided tours. To become a volunteer, you need to attend a training course. The time commitment can be flexible, with volunteering activities typically taking place on weekends or during special events.

Website: wwf.it/oasi/puglia/torre_guaceto/
Location(s): Torre Guaceto, Brindisi
Time Commitment: Flexible (typically weekends or events)

Associazione Salam

Associazione Salam works to promote intercultural dialogue and support migrants and refugees in Puglia. Volunteers can help with language classes, cultural events, and integration projects. To get involved, contact them through their website or Facebook page. The time commitment can vary depending on your availability and the specific projects.

Website: associazionesalam.it
Location(s): Lecce
Time Commitment: Varies depending on projects

Associazione di Volontariato S.O.S. Salento

S.O.S. Salento is a volunteer association that focuses on environmental protection and sustainable development. Volunteers can participate in cleanup campaigns, environmental education, and conservation projects. To join, contact them through their website or Facebook page. The time commitment is flexible, with events and projects taking place throughout the year.

Website: sossalento.it
Location(s): Various locations in Salento
Time Commitment: Flexible (events and projects throughout the year)

Fondazione S.E.M.I. per il Bene Comune

Fondazione S.E.M.I. works to promote social inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and community development. Volunteers can help with educational workshops, cultural events, and social projects. To get involved, contact them through their website. The time commitment can vary depending on the specific projects and your availability.

Website: fondazionesemi.org
Location(s): Bari
Time Commitment: Varies depending on projects

Associazione Volontari Ospedalieri (AVO)

AVO is a volunteer organization that provides assistance and support to patients in hospitals. Volunteers can help with various tasks, such as accompanying patients, providing information, and organizing recreational activities. To become a volunteer, you need to attend a training course. The time commitment is typically a few hours per week.

Website: avo.it
Location(s): Various hospitals in Puglia
Time Commitment: A few hours per week

Legambiente Puglia

Legambiente is an environmental organization that focuses on protecting and preserving the environment. Volunteers can participate in cleanup campaigns, environmental education, and conservation projects. To get involved, contact them through their website or local branches. The time commitment is flexible, with events and projects taking place throughout the year.

Website: legambiente.it/puglia/
Location(s): Various locations in Puglia
Time Commitment: Flexible (events and projects throughout the year)