Volunteering abroad has become one of the most enriching ways for young people to develop essential skills, discover new cultures, and contribute to meaningful community projects. For 2026, the Portugal Jeunesse et Environnement Fully Funded Program offers an exceptional opportunity to participate in youth development, community gardening, environmental activities, and non-formal education within the rural region of Viana do Castelo. Led by the well-established Associação Juvenil de Deão (AJD), this experience empowers volunteers to support local youth while gaining practical skills in community engagement, sustainability, and cultural exchange.
Whether you are aiming to expand your intercultural understanding, strengthen your teamwork abilities, or simply make a positive impact in a welcoming rural setting, this fully funded program provides the ideal environment for personal growth and meaningful contribution.
About AJD: A Youth Organization Committed to Inclusion and Community Development
Founded in 1997 in Deão, northern Portugal, Associação Juvenil de Deão (AJD) plays a key role in supporting young people from rural communities in Viana do Castelo. Through cultural, social, environmental, artistic, and sports-related activities, AJD promotes:
- Youth participation
- Equal opportunities
- Inclusion and solidarity
- Environmental education
- Access to information
- Community engagement
The volunteers joining the 2026 program will work alongside dedicated youth workers and educators, helping design and implement activities that empower local children and young people. AJD’s mission places strong emphasis on creativity, cooperation, environmental responsibility, and the use of non-formal learning methods.
Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities
During your stay, you will be actively involved in several key activities that support AJD’s community mission. Tasks are designed to encourage creativity, initiative, and teamwork. Main responsibilities include:
1. Supporting Youth Activities and Workshops
You will collaborate with local youth animators to prepare, organize, and run sessions for children and teenagers. These include educational games, cultural activities, group dynamics, sports, crafts, and thematic workshops.
2. Creating a “Greener” Playroom
Volunteers are encouraged to design and implement ideas that make the youth center more eco-friendly. This could involve:
- Building educational green corners
- Reusing materials for crafts
- Designing environmental awareness posters
- Introducing sustainable practices into daily activities
Your creativity and interest in ecology will directly shape these improvements.
3. Developing the AJD Community Garden
A major project is the enhancement of the association’s community garden. Volunteers will help create playful educational spaces where children learn through nature-based and non-formal methods.
Activities may include:
- Gardening and planting
- Creating outdoor learning stations
- Designing ecological games
- Supporting environmental workshops for youth
4. Promoting Non-Formal Education Through Nature
You will help implement activities that encourage learning through exploration, movement, creativity, and team-based tasks. The goal is to help children develop emotional, social, and environmental awareness.
Accommodation, Food, and Transport
The Portugal Jeunesse et Environnement program is fully funded, ensuring that all volunteers can participate regardless of their financial situation.
What is covered?
✔ Accommodation:
You will stay in housing provided by AJD. The accommodation includes all essential utilities and offers a safe, comfortable environment close to the activity sites.
✔ Food:
Your meals are fully covered. You will either receive meals directly from the organization or a food stipend, depending on the schedule and facilities.
✔ Local Transport:
Any transport needed for project activities is provided. This ensures easy mobility for volunteers living in the rural area.
✔ Pocket Money:
Volunteers receive a monthly allowance for personal expenses.
This structure ensures a stress-free experience, allowing you to focus entirely on your learning journey and community contribution.
Training and Learning Opportunities
Volunteering with AJD is not only about helping the community; it is also a unique learning opportunity. Throughout the project, you will gain new knowledge and strengthen your life skills through:
• Non-Formal Education Methodologies
You will learn how to design activities that promote creativity, expression, cooperation, and environmental awareness.
• Intercultural Learning
Working alongside other volunteers and local youth will help you grow socially and culturally, improving communication and teamwork skills.
• Environmental Awareness and Sustainability
Hands-on tasks in the community garden and eco-friendly activities will deepen your understanding of sustainability and nature preservation.
• Soft Skills Development
You will enhance your adaptability, initiative, empathy, and problem-solving abilities—key skills valued in personal and professional life.
AJD provides guidance and support throughout the entire experience. Volunteers receive mentorship to help them integrate, learn, and navigate any challenges.
Participant Profile: Who Can Apply?
This program is open to young people who are:
✔ Between 18 and 30 years old
A wide age range designed to encourage youth participation and inclusion.
✔ Motivated to volunteer in a rural community
You should be open to living in a quieter environment and ready for a lifestyle close to nature.
✔ Interested in working with children and young people
Experience is not required—your motivation, patience, and responsibility matter most.
✔ Able to work in a team
Respect, cooperation, and good communication are essential.
✔ Environmentally conscious
Interest in nature, gardening, or ecological activities is highly appreciated.
✔ Open-minded and ready to step outside your comfort zone
Volunteering is a transformative experience—your willingness to learn and adapt is key.
Apply Here
Why Choose the Portugal Jeunesse et Environnement Program?
This fully funded volunteering project stands out for its strong community focus, environmental values, and emphasis on youth development. By joining, you will:
- Contribute to meaningful rural development
- Support young people in gaining confidence and life skills
- Learn about Portuguese culture and language
- Strengthen your leadership and organizational abilities
- Grow personally while helping others
- Join an inclusive, welcoming youth community
FAQs
1. Do I need to speak Portuguese to participate?
No. While basic Portuguese can be helpful, it is not required. Volunteers often learn gradually through immersion.
2. Is the program fully funded?
Yes. Accommodation, food, local transport, and pocket money are all provided.
3. How long is the volunteering period?
The duration depends on the specific project cycle, but most placements last several months.
4. Do I need professional experience?
No prior experience is required—only motivation, responsibility, and willingness to learn.
5. Where is the project located?
The program takes place in Deão, a rural area of Viana do Castelo, in northern Portugal.