HQ Volunteering

The dates shown in the table are the accommodation check-in and check-out dates.
Projects start on Mondays and finish on Fridays.

Athens, the capital of Greece is a city rich in history and culture, where ancient heritage and modern life coexist in a fascinating way. From the Acropolis and classical temples to its lively and colorful neighborhoods, Athens offers a dynamic and inspiring environment filled with art, tradition, and contemporary energy.

In recent years, however, the city has faced the lasting effects of the economic crisis and a growing level of social inequality, which have particularly affected the most vulnerable groups of the population. This makes Athens not only a place of extraordinary cultural interest but also a meaningful destination for volunteer experiences, where participants can actively contribute to projects focused on social support, inclusion, and solidarity, while experiencing the authenticity and vitality of Greek life.

ENG Volunteers will stay in a dormitory-style hostel located in the vibrant center of Athens, in the lively Metaxourgeio neighborhood, just a short walk or one metro stop from Omonia Square.

The modern and welcoming hostel offers communal areas where volunteers and travelers from around the world can relax and socialize. Rooms are shared by 10 to 12 people and feature comfortable beds, personal lockers, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Private rooms or additional nights before or after the program can be arranged upon request, subject to availability and an extra fee.

The hostel also includes a fully equipped communal kitchen, a lounge area, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city and the Acropolis — especially beautiful at sunset.

Three meals per day — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — are included and freshly prepared each day.

For destinations in partnership with HQ Volunteering, 25 scholarships of €300 are available.
Costs vary according to the duration of the volunteering project and are divided as follows:

• Application fee: €35 (non-refundable) - required during the program application phase.
• Deposit fee: €200 - required after the close of applications to confirm the intention to proceed with the enrollment.
• Programme fee: (requested directly from HQ after eligibility confirmation, see table):
   

A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.

Projects dedicated to supporting local shelters and organizations committed to the care and protection of abandoned domestic animals and urban wildlife, such as dogs, cats, birds, turtles, and hedgehogs. Volunteers work alongside local staff providing direct assistance through feeding, cleaning, walking, and socializing activities — essential for helping animals recover from trauma and rebuild trust in humans.

The projects also aim to improve the wellbeing and adoption prospects of rescued animals while supporting the daily management of often overcrowded and under-resourced shelters. By joining, volunteers contribute to promoting greater awareness of animal welfare within the local community and encouraging responsible care practices.

Projects dedicated to supporting local organizations and community centers working for the social inclusion of marginalized groups, such as people with disabilities, migrants, and refugees. Volunteers assist non-profit initiatives in their daily operations, helping manage community spaces, distribute essential goods, and support educational and cultural activities designed to empower local communities.

Tasks may include organizing donations, leading workshops and language lessons, participating in awareness campaigns, and helping run events and integration programs. The projects also aim to promote intercultural dialogue and social cohesion, fostering mutual understanding and inclusion among people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.

Projects dedicated to promoting ethical and sustainable fashion in collaboration with local organizations that provide employment opportunities for refugees and migrants. Volunteers take part in recycling and upcycling initiatives, helping transform discarded clothing into new garments while supporting responsible and sustainable practices within the fashion industry.

Activities may include collecting, sorting, and cleaning donated clothing, preparing items for redistribution, assisting in production workshops, and helping organize events and awareness campaigns focused on ethical consumption and sustainability. The project also seeks to foster social inclusion through work, encouraging circular and community-based approaches to fashion.

Projects dedicated to supporting local organizations that assist homeless and socially vulnerable individuals in Athens. Volunteers collaborate with NGOs and community centers providing essential services such as food, water, clothing distribution, hygiene support, and help with legal documentation and administrative processes.

Activities may include preparing and distributing meals, rescuing and redistributing surplus food, assisting with outreach initiatives, and supporting administrative or logistical operations. The project aims to restore dignity and promote social reintegration for homeless individuals while fostering sustainability through food waste reduction and fair resource management.

Projects dedicated to supporting local centers for refugees and migrants, aiming to foster the social integration of teenagers and young adults through educational, recreational, and sports activities. Volunteers help create safe and inclusive spaces where participants can socialize, develop new skills, improve their English, and share hobbies and interests.

Activities may include organizing art, sports, and language workshops, leading group games and events, assisting in the management of community centers, and supporting informal learning programs. The project seeks to promote personal growth, empowerment, and intercultural dialogue, helping young refugees and migrants build confidence and connections in their new environment.
Experience or an educational background in anatomy, kinesiology, exercise programming, fitness and nutrition, sports or business management, early years support, sports science, or the arts are highly valued.