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Environmental
and maintenance works in the Convent San Giorgio
Volunteer project: Since 1999 the
ex-Convent San Giorgio, a Volunteering Permanent Centre, has hosted hundreds of
volunteers in different occasions (national and international workcamps,
European Volunteering Service, etc). The project aims to bring new economic, tourist and especially cultural and spiritual movements in a quite isolated area. It deals with sustainable living, no waste, recycling and clever use of energies.
As every year, from January until June,
international volunteer groups will spend some
days at the ex Convento San Giorgio: a good chance to meet people from all
over the world, to know a bit of Italian culture, getting in touch with
permaculture and sustainable living; all this while staying in a Convent of the
XVII century. The tasks of the participants change according to the period of
the year, the season and the weather, but can be summarized in:
Language: English Accommodation: Volunteers will be sharing rooms inside the Convent. This is an ex-Convent from the XVII century and there is no heating in the rooms. Please note that there is no internet connection available at the Convent; telephone is available only with international prepaid phone-cards. Location: Goriano Valli (Tione degli Abruzzi - Fontecchio), Province of L'Aquila, Region Abruzzo Terminal: Closest international airports are Rome or Pescara Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: Euro 100 to be paid at
the arrival
Environmental
and historic
preservation of the area
of
Lavino Hot Springs Volunteer project: The Regional Park of Lavino Hot Springs is managed by the Scafa Council. The Park has a huge archaeological, historical and environmental importance thanks to its peculiar hot springs, the old mineral caves, the canals and the 600 years old water mill.
During the first project (May 24 - June 6, 2009), volunteers will build up
small bridges and clean up paths. Wooden signs will also be prepared. Language: English Accommodation: In a hostel Location: Scafa, Abruzzo, Centre of Italy Terminal: Pescara and Rome international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Renovation
and environmental maintenance activities
in
Orobie Valtellinesi Regional
Park Volunteer project: Albaredo per San Marco is located in the heart of the Orobie Valtellinesi Regional Park, at 950 meters high. This area is listed as a site of European importance. Along a 3.5 km route, it is possible to discover an open air eco-museum, characterised by old trees, mountain paths, and small lakes. Volunteers will be hosted in a mountain shelter and will help in renovation and maintenance works. Language: English Accommodation: In a mountain shelter Location: Albaredo per S.Marco, Lombardia, North of Italy Terminal: Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Organising
the summer festival "Castles of Peace"
in
Calabria
Volunteer project: Campo Calabro is a small
village located along the Calabrian coast, between Pellaro and Palmi villages.
Volunteers will collaborate in organising the summer event “Castles of Peace”,
an initiative, addressed to small municipalities, to promote peace and
sustainability. Language: English Accommodation: In a house Location: Campo Calabro, Reggio Calabria, Calabria Terminal: Reggio Calabria international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Restoration
and environmental
education activities in Verona Volunteer project: “L’isola che non c’era” (“The isle that didn’t exist”) is a social and recreational centre located inside the Parco delle Mura in Verona, and designed to be accessible to all. The management of the area has been given by the Verona municipality to a non-profit organisation, which undertook the restoration of the place. The international volunteers will work on the green area and skating ring restoration around the hosting structure. Furthermore, the group will participate in several workshops about environmental education. During these workshops, volunteers will also learn how to “build” small devices useful for energy saving. Language: English Accommodation: In the house “Isola che non c’era” Location: Verona, Veneto Region, North East of Italy Terminal: Verona and Venice international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Verona was the place that
inspired Shakespeare to craft "Two Gentlemen of Verona" and "Romeo and Juliet".
Once you visit Verona, you will never read or think of these plays the same way
you used to.
Nestled among the tiny walkways is one of the treasures of the city. If you
don't know where to look or if you are walking too swiftly you may stroll right
past the huge, thick wooden door with brass hardware that opens onto the small
courtyard protecting the terrace where Juliet and Romeo had their balcony scene.
Inside the atrium, you can walk under the famous balcony where Juliet softly
shouted "Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou, Romeo?" This courtyard is lined with
shrubs and flowering vines. Sunlight bounces off stone walls covered with rust
and green moss. Shadows waltz across the stone floor.
Support
the activities of the Chestnut eco-museum
in
Nomaglio Volunteer project: Nomaglio is a small village (575m high), located at the entrance of the Serra Morenica and part of the Morenico Amphitheatre. It is a unique area, thanks to its geological, naturalistic and anthropological characteristics. In 1996, the municipality started a project to restore and develop local cultural values and to create a chestnut eco-museum. The museum is dedicated to the benefits of the chestnut tree: the whole village, the surrounding forests, the mule tracks and the old water-mill are all part of the eco-museum, which is, most of all, an open air workshop for schools, visitors, chestnut workers and people interested in local history and environment. Volunteers will work on this project by cutting bushes and briars, restoring dry stone walls, setting up signals and participating in workshops and seminars on environmental and conservation issues. Volunteers will also have the chance of discovering typical local products. Language: English Accommodation: Municipal building Location: Nomaglio, Turin, Piemonte, North of Italy Terminal: Turin International airport
Age range: 18 and over
Maintenance
of paths and green areas in Cavallaria mountain Volunteer project: This international volunteer project will take place in Quassolo, located at the slope of the Cavallaria mountain (1464 m high), in the Valle d’Aosta Region. The ancient centre of the village, known in the past as Riperia della Dora, overlooks the vineyards and shows many examples of ancient rural architecture (like the old cheese factory “al Casun”, the mill with the woodworking “al Mulin d’Alera”, the cellar “la Fujera”) and typical fountains made of stone (called Burnel), which are still offering to local people good and pure water.
Volunteers will work on cutting bushes and briars,
cleaning mountain streams, maintenance of paths, mule tracks and dry stone walls, and
setting up and painting of signals and fences. Volunteers will also collaborate
in the organization of the local festival which will take place in the Praja
forest. Language: English Accommodation: Municipal building Location: Quassolo, Turin, Piemonte, North of Italy Terminal: Turin International airport
Age range: 18 and over
Environmental
restoration in the area of prehistoric rock art
engravings in Valcamonica Volunteer project: The Ceto-Cimbergo-Paspardo regional reserve of rock art engravings, located in the middle of Camonica Valley, was established in 1983 by Lombardia Region, with the aim of protecting the area characterised by prehistoric rock engravings and several important ethnological and environmental elements concerning the evolution of Alps over the last thousand years. Volunteers will work on the environmental restoration of the area and will collaborate on path maintenance. Language: English Accommodation: In a dormitory Location: Paspardo, Brescia, Lombardia Terminal: Brescia or Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Path
maintenance
and
dry stone wall
restoration in the Upper Cervo Valley Volunteer project: The international volunteer project will take place between Campiglia Cervo and San Paolo Cervo, two lovely villages connected by old paths and mule tracks. The area is characterised by beeches and pine woods, syenite caves, old mills and green fields. The volunteers will work on paths cleaning and will restore dry stone walls, also helping in the Arbo Park environmental maintenance. Volunteers will also have the chance to meet the local communities, participating in meetings, events and tastings of local products. Language: English Accommodation: In a municipal guest house Location: Campiglia, Biella, Piemonte Terminal: Turin international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Improving
green areas and footpaths
for the local community of
Ceggia Volunteer project: Ceggia is a lively town with ancient traditions, located in the eastern Venetian plain, very close to important tourist places such as Venezia, Jesolo or Treviso. Local environmental group intends to improve the green area and footpaths along the river, used by the local community.
Volunteers will clean and maintain the area. The
group will also collaborate in the project “green without barriers”. They will
set up an equipped area which will be used by disabled people. Special requirements: Volunteers must be able to ride a bike! Language: English Accommodation: In a dormitory Location: Ceggia, Venezia, Veneto Terminal: Venice or Treviso international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Preserving
forests and conducting a tree census in Lombardia
Volunteers will clean grasslands, cutting shrubs and bushes, and will conduct a census of local trees, classifying them with photographs and measures. Volunteers will work in a mountainous area, in the middle of the state-owned forest managed by ERSAF, and they will live in a mountain shelter. During the last period of the project, the volunteer group will move to a guest house in Bienno. Language: English Accommodation: Mountain shelter
Location: Bienno e Campolungo,
Brescia, Lombardia, North of Italy Terminal: Milan international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Volunteer project: The “Gallipoli Cognato e Piccole Dolomiti lucane” Park extends across 27.027 hectares, and many lovely villages are included inside the Park, which is one of the most uncontaminated environments in the south of Italy. This area presents important naturalistic, historical, and ethno-anthropological values. The group of international volunteers will work on cleaning paths in the surroundings. The work will be carried out in collaboration with the local civil protection team. Language: English Accommodation: In a hostel Location: Accettura, district of Matera, Basilicata region, South of Italy Terminal: Closest international airport is Bari
Age range: 18 and over
Fire
monitoring and renovation of paths in the largest natural park in Italy Volunteer project: The Pollino National Park is the largest protected area in Italy. The uncontaminated territory currently faces fire threat, especially during summer. For this reason, it is very important to monitor the area. Volunteers' tasks are to contribute in fire prevention activities. They will also work on paths maintenance and cleaning, in collaboration with the civil protection team. Language: English Location: Rotonda-Pollino National Park, district of Potenza, Basilicata region, South of Italy Terminal: Closest international airport is Bari
Age range: 18 and over
Various environmental
activities in the Natural Reserve
of the Aniene Valley in Rome
Volunteers will be involved in many different activities such as maintenance of natural paths, maintenance of signals and fences, land reclaiming, removing garbage. Language: English
Accommodation: In an apartment Location: Rome, Italy’s capital, Lazio region, the Centre of Italy Terminal: Rome international airports Age range: 18 and over
Creating
a new hiking path in a
heritage area of Tuscany Volunteer project: The volunteer project will take place in Colle, a small village in Tuscany, located in a wonderful area near Carmignano, famous for being Leonardo da Vinci grandmother’s hometown. This area is close to some of the most important cities of Tuscany, such as Florence, Siena, Volterra and Pistoia. The volunteers will work on paths maintenance and cleaning up from weeds, along the Furba and Arno rivers. The aim of the project is to create a new path for tourists, hikers and horse-riding activities with the help of the international volunteer group. Language: English Accommodation: In a former school Location: Carmignano, Prato, Tuscany, Centre of Italy Terminal: Florence and Pisa international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Environmental maintenance of alpine rural areas Volunteer project: The green Valsassina valley is located between the Grigne mountain and the Pre-Alps of Bergamo, and has a very rich biodiversity and unique landscapes. Crandola-Valsassina, the village that will host and support the international volunteers in their activities, has collaborated in the campaign “Piccola Grande Italia”, which aims to promote the environmental and cultural heritage of small Italian municipalities. The volunteers will work on the environmental maintenance of the area, working mainly in the mountainous areas of Crandola-Valsassina (footpaths, environmental maintenance of alpine rural areas, etc.). Language: English Accommodation: In a municipal guest house Location: Crandola Valsassina, Lecco, Lombardia, North of Italy Terminal: Milan International airports
Age range: 18 and over
Trail
improvement project in Piemonte region Volunteer project: The Pralungo village is 3 km far from Biella and it is about 600 meters high, overlooking the surrounding valley. Thanks to its economy based on farming, the area is characterized by many mule tracks, used by livestock. The international volunteer team will work on path maintenance, removing bushes and weeds from the beautiful path which leads to the Oropa sanctuary. Volunteers will also have the chance to meet the local community, discovering the territory and tasting local products. Language: English Accommodation: In a municipal guest house Location: Pralungo, Biella, Piemonte region Terminal: Turin international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Footpath
maintenance and cleaning of mountain areas in the
Orobie Alps Volunteer project: Orobie is the first alpine chain in the north of Lombardia. The southern side has valleys with a very articulated morphology, while the northern side, where the area of the Park Orobie Valtellinesi extends its borders, is steeper and it develops in the direction of river Adda with deep parallel valleys. This volunteer project takes place within the initiative “Foreste da Vivere” (Live the forest), an initiative promoted by Lombardia region to foster the 23.000 hectare of forests through cultural and sport events, excursions, tastings, and many other. Volunteers will be hosted in Delebio village for the first two days and then will move to a mountain shelter in Alpe Dosso, 500 m high. The volunteers will be involved in footpaths maintaining, cleaning pasture lands and doing manual work inside the mountain shelter. Volunteers are requested to be properly equipped and physically trained as they will have to walk to the work place and the mountain shelter. Language: English Accommodation: Mountain shelter Location: Alpe Dosso, Delebio, Sondrio district, Lombardia region, North of Italy Terminal: Milan International airports
Age range: 18 and over
Environmental
maintenance
activities along the river Lanza Volunteer project: The Valle della Lanza Park is located between Como and Varese in a lovely area famous for its lakes. The park extends along the river Lanza, that reaches the River Olona, showing a very unique biodiversity. The Park is crossed by the old “Valmorea” railroad, now used by tourists during the summer. In the past, this area was also important for its quarrymen who digged some artificial caves, impressive for their dimensions. This area is rich of rivers and ancient mills, some of them still working. Volunteers will work on the maintenance of paths and on the cleaning of the area, in collaboration with the Civil Protection department team. Language: English Accommodation: In a school/gym Location: Bizzarone, Como, Lombardia region, North of Italy Terminal: Milan International airports
Age range: 18 and over
Conservation
of a stopover site along an important bird migration route Volunteer project: The Pian di Spagna area is an important migration route which hosts several bird species, recognized as a site of international importance by the Ramsar Convention. This half-marshy zone, formed by a gradual mud deposit transported by Adda river, is covered by thick groves of reeds and many animal and plant species live here. For this reason, any alteration of this habitat would be a threat for its precious biodiversity.
Language: English Accommodation: In guest rooms Location: Sorico, Como, Lombardia Terminal: Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Weed
clean-up
and path maintenance at the rolling hills of Franciacorta Volunteer project: Monte Orfano is an isolated hill placed in Franciacorta, a well-known green area famous for its vineyards and gastronomic itineraries. The hill is very close to Iseo and Garda lakes and it is characterized by peculiar flora and fauna, such as birds, hares and some kind of reptiles and amphibian. During the project, volunteers will clean the area from weeds and will help in path maintenance. Language: English Accommodation: In a dormitory Location: Rovato, Brescia, Lombardia Terminal: Brescia or Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Help
improve local biodiversity in a nature park
near Milan
Volunteer project: The “Centenary Park” is
located just outside the city of Milan and it extends to 6 hectars, including
wide green fields and woods.
During the project, the international volunteers
will help the local staff and will work on the maintenance of the small lake
within the Park. This project aims to improve local biodiversity, allowing the
growth of new water plants and small fishes and frogs. Language: English Accommodation: In a school Location: Trezzano sul Naviglio, Milano, Lombardia Terminal: Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Maintenance
of natural areas
in
Valvestino valley
Volunteer project: Valvestino valley is a wide area located between
the mountains and the Garda and Idro Lakes. The volunteer work will mainly involve paths maintenance and cleaning. Volunteers will also help realizing a garden, removing rubbish and cutting the grass in front of the guest house. Language: English Accommodation: ERSAF guest house Location: Turano Valvestino, Brescia, Lombardia Terminal: Brescia or Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Environmental
clean-up and
setting up a Tibetan bridge in the valleys of Biella region Volunteer project: Piedicavallo village is located in the North West of Italy, at the bottom of the beautiful Cervo Valley, characterised by many mountain paths which cross secular beech forests. Piedicavallo is famous for granite production and for its protestant tradition. In the Valdese temple, dated at 1985 and located near the S. Michele, concerts, exhibitions and other cultural activities are often organized. Volunteers will work on paths maintenance and cleaning and will help setting up a Tibetan bridge along the Descola valley. They will also have the chance to meet the local communities, participating in meetings, events and tastings of local products. Language: English Accommodation: Valdese church guest house Location: Piedicavallo, Biella, Piemonte Terminal: Milano-Malpensa and Turin International airports
Age range: 18 and over
Environmental,
conservation and fire prevetion activities in Abruzzo
Volunteer project: The volunteer project
will take place in Scerni, a nice village about 20 km far from the Adriatic Sea.
During the project, the volunteers will collaborate in some conservation and
environmental maintenance activities. Language: English Accommodation: In a hostel Location: Scerni, Chieti, Abruzzo Terminal: Pescara international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Signposting
of hiking trails in
Brescia Volunteer project: Botticino is a small village located between Brescia and Garda Lake. The international volunteer project will take place in a Botticino’s hamlet, characterised by beautiful drops and chalky pinnacles. In the frame of a paths maintenance program in Botticino, the volunteers will set up signs along the paths. Language: English Accommodation: In a former school Location: Botticino, Brescia, Lombardia Terminal: Brescia or Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Path
signposting and cleaning along the Liguria coastline Volunteer project: Savona is a tourist city located on the Liguria coastline, between the Lavanestro and Letimbro torrents. Volunteers will help with cleaning and maintenance of the “Madonna degli Angeli” path, and will put up signs along the path. Language: English Location: Savona, Liguria Terminal: Genoa and Nice international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Signposting
and maintenance of the ruins of a medieval abbey Volunteer project: The Scurcola Marsicana Municipality together with a local environmental association will involve the volunteers in several environmental activities around an old Cistercense Abbey from the 1278. The volunteers' tasks will mainly consist of cleaning and maintaining the ruins, and setting up information signs. Language: English Accommodation: In a school Location: Scurcola Marsicana, L'Aquila, Abruzzo Terminal: Rome and Pescara international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Beautification
of an
Alpine village and support the activities of the local museum Volunteer project: Netro is a lovely village in the Alps, placed in the highest part of Elvo Valley. The hill and mountain landscapes are characterized by variegated lawns and woods. One of its peculiarities are the many waterways and fountains.
The volunteer team will mainly work on: Language: English Accommodation: In a rest house Location: Netro, Biella, Piemonte Terminal: Turin international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Fire
prevention
program in the Historical and Archaeological Natural Park of Murgia Volunteer project: The Historical and Archaeological Natural Park of the Murgia and of the Rock Churches in the area of Matera is one of the most spectacular rocky landscapes in Italy, characterized by more than 150 rock churches. The volunteers will collaborate in fire prevention activities and will help maintaining and safeguarding the Park territory. Language: English Location: Matera, Basilicata Terminal: Closest international airport is Bari
Age range: 18 and over
Fire
prevention and path maintenance activities in
Calabria Volunteer project: The Pollino national park is the largest protected area in Italy. The uncontaminated territory currently faces fire threat, especially during summer. For this reason, it is very important to monitor the area. Volunteers' tasks are to contribute in fire prevention activities. They will also work on paths maintenance and cleaning, in collaboration with the civil protection team. Language: English Location: Castrovillari, Cosenza, Calabria Terminal: Closest international airport is Lamezia Terme
Age range: 18 and over
Trail
upkeep project
in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines Volunteer project: Cavarzano is located on the Tosco-Emiliano Appennine, around 1006 m high. This area is one of the most wild and distinctive in central Italy, characterised by beautiful waterfalls, wide grasslands and impervious woods. Volunteers will be involved in maintaining and renovating paths. This project is right for those who love isolated and quiet places. Language: English Accommodation: In a church dormitory Location: Cavarzano, Prato, Toscana region Terminal: Florence and Pisa international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Brushwood
cleaning and conducting an anthill census
in
Giovetto natural reserve Volunteer project: The Giovetto natural reserve extends across 650 hectares and is characterised by forest trees, wide meadows and a wealthy ecosystem. For instance, the typical Formica ruffa, the forest ant, nests in this area, building typical pine-needle anthills. The volunteers in the project will work on brushwood cleaning and anthills census. Long walking to get to the work place will be required. Language: English Accommodation: In a dormitory Location: Giovetto di Paline, Brescia, Lombardia Terminal: Brescia or Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Discover
and preserve the unique natural environment of
Dora Baltea Canavesa Volunteer project: Quincinetto, a small village at the border with Valle d’Aosta, is going to host an international volunteer group this year again, in order to continue the environmental work already started. The volunteers in the past years worked on the maintenance of ancient footpaths included in the Big Alps Crossing. These trails permit to discover the environmental and anthropologist peculiarities of the area called “Dora Baltea Canavesa”. Volunteers will work on cutting bushes and briars, setting up signs and restoration of dry walls and fences. Besides, volunteers will be involved in anthropologic and naturalistic workshops and excursions, together with experts who will show them the peculiar quartz mines, local flora and fauna, and rocky formations typical of the area. Language: English Accommodation: In a municipal guest house Location: Quincinetto, Torino, Piemonte region, North of Italy Terminal: Turin international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Preserving
a didactic forest trail
in
San Romolo Monte Bignone Nature
Reserve Volunteer project: San Romolo is located at an altitude of eight hundred meters, surrounded by chestnut woods and mushrooms, and only 14 kilometres far from the famous town of Sanremo, on the Liguria coastline. San Romolo Monte Bignone Nature Reserve protects 700 hectares and is covered in woods and Mediterranean bush. The Reserve is crossed by paths to be followed on foot and mountain bike: a didactic-forestry route with information boards illustrating the various types of trees to be found, a living route and a faunistic area that is home to deer, donkeys and farmyard animals. In San Romolo Monte Bignone Nature Reserve, the volunteer group will work on paths cleaning and maintaining. Language: English Accommodation: In a guest house and tents Location: San Romolo – Sanremo, Imperia, Liguria Terminal: Genoa or Nice (Fr) international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Safeguarding
the biodiversity
in Piemonte region Volunteer project: Refrancore village is located among the hills of Basso Monferrato, in the valley where the river Gaminella flows. The sandy terrain is good for growing peaches and also good for the development of forests and vineyards.
Volunteers will work on paths maintenance,
restoring and cleaning the area within the Astigiane greenways, with the aim to
protect and safeguard the biodiversity. Language: English Accommodation: In a municipal guest house Location: Refrancore, Asti district, Piemonte region, North of Italy Terminal: Turin International airport
Age range: 18 and over
Maintenance of hiking paths in the beautiful Valle Veddasca Volunteer project: The volunteer project will take place in the Veddasca Valley, a beautiful and remote valley in the pre-alpine zone of Varese district, next to the Swiss border. The area is characterized by large broadleaf woods, as chestnut and beeches, a great number of animals, and traditional farms and villages. The project site is close to one of the most famous Italian lakes, the Maggiore lake (a famous tourist place). Volunteers will help with path maintenance and cleaning in the nearby areas. Language: English Accommodation: In a hostel Location: Lozzo, Varese district, Lombardia region, North of Italy Terminal: Milan international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Improving
mountain trails and fire prevention work in
Lusiana Volunteer project: Lusiana is a mountain village with a peculiar location at the top edge of a big valley, with the alpine landscape at the back: the atmosphere of the place is extremely striking. The volunteers will work on paths maintenance and will set up signs, in collaboration with the local community. The aim of the project is to improve the condition of the paths and mountain tracks around the area. The group will be also involved in fire prevention activities, in collaboration with the local civil protection team. Language: English Accommodation: In a former school Location: Lusiana, Vicenza, Veneto Terminal: Venice or Verona international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Restoration
of the ancient Via Francigena
Volunteer project: Settimo Vittone is
located on an altitude between 260 m and 2.371 m. The village is characterized
by chestnuts, olive trees and vineyards, and by many footpaths, forests, pasture
lands and rivers, which create an enchanting and typical landscape.
Language: English Accommodation: Municipal guest house Location: Settimo Vittone, Torino, Piemonte Terminal: Turin international airport
Age range: 18 and over
A section of
Via Francigena in Settimo Vittone
Trail maintenance work and
assisting the organization of the Valverde Summer festival Volunteer project: Valverde is a small village located on the Appennino Pavese mountains, approximately 800 m high, and about 80 km away from Milan. During the summer, many tourists from the cities nearby come to enjoy the area around the Tidone valley. The international volunteer project will take place in this area with the aim of promoting the sustainable development of the territory. The volunteers will work on paths maintenance, helping the local ERSAF (Regional Authority for Agricultural and Forest Services) staff, and will prepare the set up of the cultural events which will take place during the “Valverde Summer”. Language: English Accommodation: Church guest house Location: Valverde, Pavia district, Lombardia region, North of Italy Terminal: Milan international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Restoring
old paths and organizing
a
local food festival
in
Campania
Volunteer project: The volunteer project
will take place in Felitto, a small village located inside the Cilento e Vallo
di Diano National Park. The aim of the project is to remove weeds and to restore
the old path between Felitto and Magliano Vetere. Volunteers will also help
organizing and take part in the “sagra del fusillo”, a typical local food
festival. Language: English Accommodation: In a flat Location: Felitto, Salerno, Campania Terminal: Closest airport is Naples
Age range: 18 and over
Restoring information signs
and maintenance of meadows in a
natural reserve in
Lombardia Volunteer project: The volunteers in this project will work inside the natural area including the Curone river valley, the Montevecchia hill and the Molgora river. Small villages, industrial areas and beautiful monuments and architectural sites characterize the area. It is also famous for its broad biodiversity, and the wine and aromatic herbs production. The volunteers will work on meadows maintenance within the natural reserve, that need to be periodically cut to preserve the flora. Moreover, the team will clean the Gallarati-Scotti fountain and will take care of the ordinary maintenance of pathways, having a special attention for restoring broken or missing signs. Language: English Accommodation: In guest rooms and tents Location: Montevecchia-Ca’Soldato, Lecco, Lombardia region, North of Italy Terminal: Milan international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Raising
awareness on the sustainable development of the forest
in
Lombardia
Volunteer project: “Houses in the forest”
is a project born after a long term collaboration with ERSAF (Regional Authority
for Agricultural and Forestry Services). Its aim is to enhance the houses
located in the forests. This project involves 4 houses which will be restored
taking into account the peculiarities of the territory, the local identities and
the sustainable fruition of the environment. Volunteers will work on path maintenance and will collaborate in the organization of a public event to raise awareness on the sustainable development of the forest. Language: English Accommodation: In a guesthouse Location: Prim’Alpe-Canzo, Lombardia region, North of Italy Terminal: Milan international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Environmental
work
in Capanne Marcarolo Regional Park Volunteer project: This volunteer project will take place near the Benedicta Sanctuary, a place surrounded by the “Capanne Marcarolo” Regional Park. The area of the Park is dominated by the massive Tobbio mountain, from which it is possible to enjoy a wonderful view of the Gulf of Liguria, less than 10 km away. The area is extremely interesting for the abundance of watercourses and wetlands. This project is organized in cooperation with the Park authority. Volunteers will help improving the area, cleaning and doing small manual work. Nice excursions will be organised. Language: English Accommodation: In a mountain shelter Location: Bosio, Alessandria district, in Piemonte region, North of Italy Terminal: Turin international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Trail
maintenance
and cave restoration in
Ticino Valley Regional Park Volunteer project: The Cardano al Campo village is located in the Ticino Valley Regional Park, the first regional park in Italy, born in 1974 to protect the natural environment and the Ticino river area from urbanisation. The volunteers will work on paths maintenance and will collaborate in some cleaning and restoration work in a sandy cave. Language: English Accommodation: In a gym Location: Cardano al Campo, Varese, Lombardia Terminal: Milan international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Environmental
maintenance of green areas
in
a Sicilian mountain village Volunteer project: Prizzi, a village about 80 km away from Palermo, is located on a 1010 m high mountain. The city, characterized by a lovely centre, is famous for its “devil dance”, an ancient pagan rite representing the victory of Good over Bad, and its mural paintings that decorate the house walls of the old town. From the village it is possible to observe an amazing view over the Sosio river valley, a famous natural reserve. Other beautiful local places are: the Carcaci mountain natural reserve, overlooked by cranes, eagles and hawks during autumn, and the Raia lake. Volunteers will be involved in some maintenance and cleaning works in public green areas. Language: English Accommodation: Municipal guest house Location: Prizzi, Palermo, Sicily Terminal: Palermo international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Maintenance
of
beaches
and
green areas
on
Certosa island Volunteer project: The volunteer project will take place on Certosa island, located in the amazing Venice Lagoon between the historical city centre and the sea. The island was used for military purposes until 1950, then has been progressively abandoned. In 1985, the S. Andrea committee worked together with the Municipality aiming at restoring and safeguarding the area. Volunteers will collaborate with the Certosa Committee and a local cultural association in paths maintaining and beaches cleaning. Besides, the volunteers will be involved in performing bound actions to the prevention of the fires, thanks to the Civil Protection Team. Language: English Accommodation: In a school or camping Location: Certosa Island, Venezia district, Veneto region, North East of Italy Terminal: Venezia international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Safeguarding
and cleaning paths in
Vallone Piano della Corte natural
reserve
in
Sicily Volunteer project: Agira is an ancient town located in the heart of the Vallone Piano della Corte natural reserve (Corte’s Valley). The most flourishing period of Agira was during the Arabic domain, which inspired the city centre architecture. A typical Sicilian vegetation can be found in Piano della Corte Valley; and it is also possible to find many different animals such as foxes, weasels, barn owls and porcupines. Furthermore, the Valley is ploughed by a 7 km long torrent, called Brace. In this wonderful place, the volunteers will work on paths maintenance and cleaning, as well as removing bushes and weeds from a very thick wood. Language: English Accommodation: In a school Location: Agira, Enna district, Sicily Terminal: Catania or Palermo international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Family
project: Environmental
maintenance and animal monitoring activities on Sardinia Island Volunteer project: This is a project where parents and children can participate together. The idea is to create a sort of temporary community where adults and children can share the idea of voluntary activity for protecting the nature. It’s possible to participate as a whole family or as single parents, and also other relatives (aunts, uncles, grand-parents) can join with their family. About 4-5 hours a day are devoted to the practical work for the project. Children can be useful too for easy tasks and they also play and learn by staying in touch with the adults. Then the rest of the time is available for exploring the area with excursions, visits, meeting local people, building deeper friendships with the other participants and for cultural exchange. Children react very positively to the group dynamics, enjoying the community life and the project ideas. Everybody gets to know each other very well, breaking down prejudices and creating the base for a better global understanding. Montevecchio is a small mining village situated 20 km far away from the Green Coast, one of the most charming coasts of Sardinia which includes the "Monte Arcuentu-Dune di Piscinas” nature reserve. The area is very interesting and rich of endangered animals, such as the Sardinian deer and the “Caretta caretta” turtle. Volunteers will collaborate in several activities: maintenance of a naturalistic footpath, positioning of signs, monitoring the Sardinian deer, cleaning the beach, and fire prevention activities. Participants: 8 adults + 8 children (5 to 12 years old) Language: English Accommodation: In a guest house. Location: Guspini, Cagliari district, Sardinia region, big island on the West of Italy. Terminal: Closest international airport is Cagliari. Ferry connections from Genoa, Naples and Civitavecchia.
Extra fee: 50 Euros per person
(adult or child)
Organizing
an environmental education centre
in
Ligurian Alps Natural Park Volunteer project: Triora is a tiny lovely village located within the Argentina Valley, close to the Liguria coastline. The village is part of the Ligurian Alps Natural Park, an incredible green oasis, one of the most famous parks in Italy, characterised by uncontamined pine forest and beech trees. The international volunteers will organize the future educational centre inside the Park, which will take place inside the Triora village. Language: English Accommodation: In a dormitory Location: Triora, Imperia, Liguria Terminal: Genoa international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Environmental
and construction activities at Ancipa lake in Sicily Volunteer project: Troina has a population of 10,000 and can be found 1120 metres above sea level. Over the centuries it has been a stronghold for all the civilizations which have occupied Sicily and in the 11th century it was the Norman capital. Lake Ancipa is located 944 metres above sea level and is situated among splendid Alpine scenery. It is in this area where the volunteer work will be carried out, consisting of cleaning and repairing paths and general observation of the area. The work activities will be: cleaning paths; cleaning the shore near the lake; repairing paths; constructing picnic areas; building structures for bird-watching; setting rest areas near information points where there will be 3D maps with breil and audio guides; general observation of the information points. Language: English Accommodation: In a school Location: Troina, Sicily, south of Italy Terminal: Palermo or Catania international airports
Age range: 18 and over
Help
preserve the natural environment in Milan Province Volunteer project: The Grugnotorto-Villoresi Park is located on the northern hinterland of Milan. The massive urbanization occurred in this area after the Word War II, changed the features of this territory, once an old and typical country landscape and today covered mostly by roads, industries and houses. For this reason, at the end of the ‘80s, some groups and associations joined together, claiming the protection of the agricultural territories against their urbanization. This dream has become reality through one of the younger parks in Milan Province, the Parco Grugnotorto-Villoresi, founded in 1999. Volunteers will collaborate in cutting grass, cleaning the underbrush, maintaining the structures of the park and watering plants. Language: English Accommodation: Municipal guest house Location: Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, Lombardia, North of Italy Terminal: Milan international airport
Age range: 18 and over
Nature conservation
activities in the
natural reserve Palude di Brivio
Volunteer project: The natural reserve
Palude di Brivio is one of the most interesting humid areas of the whole Parco
Adda Nord, especially from a naturalistic point of view. The Reserve is
classified as a European Union's important site for the conservation of natural
habitat and wildlands. The volunteers will be working mainly in the natural reserve Palude di Brivio. The group will be doing some maintenance and cleaning, as well as cutting grass and weeds in order to let an endangered orchid flower grow. Language: English Accommodation: Permanent centre for voluntary service and environmental education Location: Brivio, Lecco district, Lombardia region, North of Italy Terminal: Milan International airport
Age range: 18 and over
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Volunteer project:
The Aniene valley natural reserve is located inside the city of Rome,
along the Aniene river. In the last years, volunteers collaborated in
the restoration and valorisation of the area, halting the urban
development that was destroying local biodiversity. The area is
characterised by a medieval tower and the “Cervelletta” rural home,
dated at ‘600, which now hosts a small museum on ancient rural people,
realized with old tools and pictures of local population. 
Volunteers
will work on restoring a section of the famous Via Francigena, as well as
maintaining green public areas, setting up signs and painting fences.
click
here for middle-term projects in
Italy
