Volunteering in Romania offers a journey into one of Europe’s most authentic rural landscapes—an opportunity to discover traditional life, support local communities, and contribute to sustainable development. The Village Vibes project, fully funded under the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), invites young people from across Europe to join a meaningful initiative aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, rural heritage, and community development.
Taking place in a picturesque Romanian village, this project blends cultural exploration with hands-on fieldwork, creativity, and community engagement. Volunteers will learn, grow, and contribute to long-lasting positive changes—all while experiencing daily life in a traditional rural environment.
Project Overview: Raising Awareness About Sustainable Tourism
The main goal of the Village Vibes project is to raise awareness and increase interest in sustainable tourism among the local community. Volunteers will take part in a wide variety of activities designed to promote local traditions, natural beauty, cultural heritage, and eco-friendly practices.
This project is ideal for young people who are curious about:
- Rural life
- Sustainable tourism
- Cultural heritage
- Research and storytelling
- Photography, video, or content creation
- Community development
Volunteers will be actively involved in practical fieldwork, creative documentation, and local events—helping to highlight the unique value of Romanian rural life.
Main Volunteer Activities: What You Will Do
The Village Vibes project includes diverse tasks that allow volunteers to develop professional, creative, and social skills. These activities include but are not limited to:
1. Sociological Research and Community Interaction
Volunteers will conduct informal research to:
- Collect local stories, legends, and traditions
- Document recipes, customs, and folklore
- Interview community members
- Understand local needs and tourism potential
These stories will help build a picture of the cultural heritage worth preserving and promoting.
2. Gathering Multimedia Materials
Volunteers will explore the area to gather:
- Audio recordings
- Photos
- Videos
- Written stories
- Observations about nature, traditions, and daily life
These materials will later become part of online platforms, promotional campaigns, and tourism tools.
3. Mapping Trails and Local Attractions
One of the project’s most impactful tasks is creating and mapping hiking and biking trails that highlight:
- Scenic landscapes
- Local producers
- Historical and cultural landmarks
- Community kitchens and rural experiences
- Workshops and traditional craft areas
Volunteers will walk or bike through the region to design routes that can be used by tourists and locals.
4. Organizing Intercultural Events
To strengthen cultural exchange, volunteers will organize events where they present:
- Their home cultures
- Food and traditional dishes
- Music, dance, or crafts
- Games or educational workshops
These events promote multicultural understanding and enrich community life.
5. Content Creation and Promotion
Volunteers will edit and organize all collected materials and upload them to the project’s online platforms. Tasks include:
- Editing videos and photos
- Writing articles or descriptions
- Contributing to websites and social media
- Designing posters, brochures, or digital campaigns
This creative work strengthens local visibility and supports sustainable tourism efforts.
6. Supporting Local Tasks
From helping with small village events to assisting community initiatives, volunteers will also contribute to general tasks that support rural life.
Accommodation, Food, and Local Transport
This opportunity is fully funded, and volunteers receive everything needed to live comfortably throughout their stay. Benefits include:
✔ Travel Reimbursement
Volunteers are reimbursed for return travel costs up to:
- 211 EUR
- 309 EUR
- 395 EUR
(depends on distance and ESC travel bands)
Green travel options are available for those choosing eco-friendly transportation.
✔ Accommodation in a Traditional Romanian House
Volunteers stay together in a traditional village home, providing:
- Shared bedrooms
- Common living spaces
- Authentic rural experience
- A chance to live like a local
✔ Food Allowance and Pocket Money
Monthly allowances cover:
- Groceries and/or meals
- Personal expenses
✔ Local Transport and Daily Needs
Volunteers receive:
- Local bus passes
- Access to a car when needed for activities
- SIM cards with mobile data
- Medical insurance
This support ensures volunteers can focus fully on their learning and community contributions.
Training and Support During the Project
Volunteers will benefit from a well-structured training plan that helps them grow personally and professionally. Trainings include:
- Mentor support throughout the project
- Language lessons (Romanian language basics)
- Activity coordination and materials
- Team-building sessions
- Health and safety training
- Event management workshops
- Basic youth work and group dynamics training
- Communication and storytelling workshops
- Introduction to research methods
This strong learning component ensures volunteers are well prepared for each task and develop competencies that are valuable for future careers.
Who Can Apply? Participant Profile
The project seeks volunteers who:
- Are 18–30 years old
- Are available for the entire duration of the mobility
- Are motivated to join an international volunteering experience
- Are excited to live and work in a rural environment
- Are interested in sustainability, rural heritage, and community development
- Want to learn a new European language
- Have at least basic English communication skills
- Are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences
No professional experience is required—just motivation, willingness to learn, and a positive attitude.
Why Volunteer in Rural Romania?
This experience offers volunteers:
- Real immersion in authentic Romanian village life
- A relaxed and natural environment
- Opportunities to create meaningful community impact
- Development of digital, social, and creative skills
- Intercultural learning and collaboration
- Improved communication and leadership abilities
- A deeper understanding of sustainability and rural development
- A Youthpass certificate to validate competencies
The Village Vibes project is perfect for anyone seeking personal growth, professional development, and a chance to contribute to a community that values tradition and sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Village Vibes project fully funded?
Yes. Travel, accommodation, food allowance, pocket money, and local transport are all covered.
2. Do I need previous experience in tourism or community work?
No. All necessary training is provided, and motivation is more important than experience.
3. Where will volunteers live?
In a traditional rural house shared with the volunteer group.
4. What language skills are required?
Basic English is needed. Romanian language training is provided.
5. How long does the project last?
Volunteers must commit to the full period of the mobility (usually several months, depending on ESC guidelines).
6. What kind of tasks will volunteers do?
Activities include research, trail mapping, multimedia creation, community events, and promotional work.
7. Will volunteers receive support?
Yes. Mentors, coordinators, and trainers provide continuous support.