Volunteers

Volunteers are The Backbone of REAL International

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Our volunteers work directly with the smart, resilient, and vulnerable population of refugees who are either still in Greece or in other countries. REAL coordinates with volunteers to work in the Virtual Learning Program, In-Person Teaching Program, and/or Girls Empowerment Program.

We are looking for volunteers who have the ability to adapt to different cultures and thrive in an unpredictable yet highly rewarding environment. Our volunteers are part of a team of talented educators who are supportive and collaborative.

We have found it a privilege to help this population who are in such need and who are eager and grateful for the skills, knowledge, and hope that we bring to them.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us.

FAQs

The first step is to contact us and we will set up an informational interview with you either in person or online to talk about the details of the project and to collect some information about you. If there is a mutual agreement that this is something for you, we will send you the required paperwork and contact you to take next steps.

No, but pre-approved materials or Zoom expenses can be reimbursed.

Currently, we teach English and other basic school subjects. In the Girls Empowerment Program, we teach swimming and biking. If you have a specialty, we would consider including it in our curriculum.  

We are looking for a one-to-three-month teaching commitment, three-month minimum preferable for virtual teaching. It is important for students to have time to connect with instructors. The maximum length of time allowed for US, Canadian, and other non-EU passport holders to spend in Greece is three months.

REAL can provide suggestions for housing, including homes, apartments, and hotels. Prices vary per location and season. You can also check out Airbnb and Lesvos Volunteers Accommodation Sharing for help.

Before you leave your country, check with your service provider for a temporary international calling plan.

We encourage you to download WhatsApp, a free communication app that allows you to text, make voice calls, and videos calls free of charge with anyone else in the world who also has the app. This is the common form of communication between volunteers on the island and does require data or a WiFi connection.

You can also buy a Greek SIM card in Mytilini so that you have a Greek number. You will need your passport to do this.

Yes. Although unspoiled in many ways, Lesvos does have a tourist industry and is an island full of picturesque small villages, beaches, thermal springs, hiking trails, and great restaurants serving traditional Greek dishes.

We highly recommend volunteers have travel insurance. None of us really expect accidents or extreme illness, but of course they do happen either at home or abroad, and it is important that one has the best medical care available either in Greece or after being flown back home.

The cost of insurance to cover this is small compared to possible medical and flight bills. Insurance also covers cancelled trips, missed flights, stolen property, and other inconveniences.

Volunteers as well as students are usually in different time zones. You will consult with our volunteer coordinator to find the best situation for you.