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PROJECT INTRODUCTION
Project Introduction
How was your day today? If you prefer simplicity over complexity, and a slower pace rather than rushing, this project is recommended for you. This project involves living with foreign volunteers from all over the world and working to protect endangered wolves. This project is conducted under the guidance of a Portuguese non-profit organization in a center or area that focuses on creating ecosystems and protecting wolves.
* This project is run in accordance with the UN Environment Programme's Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 15 – Life on Land.
The wolf from the story of the Three Little Pigs—nowadays, you can only meet him in fairy tales?
We often think of wolves as threatening or ferocious animals. People believe they should be eliminated because they attack livestock and humans. In reality, wolves have been killed for various reasons over the centuries, and they are now classified as endangered species worldwide.
Why should we prevent the extinction of wolves? While their declining numbers might not seem problematic now, over time, it disrupts the natural flow of the ecosystem and could negatively impact our lives in the long run. To combat this, the UN Environment Programme has set goals and is taking various actions to prevent animal extinction, ensuring biodiversity and a healthy ecosystem.
Currently, Portugal has designated wolves as an endangered species and is enacting laws to protect them. This project operates with the goal of creating safe habitats for the Iberian wolf, taking advantage of local characteristics to prevent their extinction.
I'm afraid of wolves! Is this project safe?
This project is operated under the guidance of professional staff from a non-profit organization dedicated to wolf conservation in Portugal. If you follow the guidelines provided, you can participate safely. It's important to remember the 'nature' of wolves. According to wolf experts, wolves are very cautious, and if a stranger approaches, they are more likely to sniff and retreat rather than attack. The activities involve observing wolves or helping ensure the smooth operation of the sanctuary or center rather than directly interacting with or approaching wolves.
[Reference Article] Hankyoreh 'Sneaky and Cruel?… Wolves Are Misunderstood'
Let's leave behind the concrete jungle of the city and head out to the real green forests and nature!
This project takes place in Mafra, a city about 25km away from Lisbon, Portugal. The activities are conducted in an area where wolf conservation efforts are ongoing, close to the wolves' natural habitat. The non-profit organization’s office and volunteer accommodations are located here. Volunteers stay in cozy, cabin-style lodgings in the midst of nature and participate in activities under the guidance of the organization's staff. Breathe in the fresh air in the lush surroundings, and at night, watch the twinkling stars in the sky while reflecting on your day! After a day’s work, volunteers often gather to chat or cook meals together. Enjoy the simple pleasures you might have missed in your busy daily life!
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The gap year planner visited personally Planner's visit story & planning intention
This volunteer activity takes place in Mafra, a city located in the mid-western part of Portugal, not far from Lisbon. It is conducted alongside dedicated staff from a non-profit organization working hard to protect endangered wolves. The reserve includes offices and accommodations specifically for volunteers. A word of caution: for those who can’t live without the internet and smartphones, be prepared! While Wi-Fi is available in the office, it is not accessible in the lodgings. During the vacation season, many students look for volunteer opportunities, and travelers often visit. I still vividly remember the sincere and passionate expressions of the organization’s staff I met. For those looking to escape the routine and embrace simplicity and slowness, and especially for those interested in wildlife conservation, this is highly recommended! Since the activities are primarily outdoors, good physical fitness is essential :) |
■ Growing with the Project
| Week 1 of the Project | Week 2 of the Project | Week 4 of the Project |
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STUDY IT! |
EXPERIENCE IT! |
BREAKTHROUGH! |
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1-1. The unique leisure and tranquility of Portugal 2-1. First meeting with international friends 3-1. Basic education about Portugal and local life |
1-2. The preciousness of a leisurely life like a local 2-2. Building close friendships with international friends 3-2. The love from people who appreciate my presence 4-2. Discovering the true essence of myself 5-2. Realizing the importance and necessity of protecting the ecosystem while working on wolf conservation activities |
1-3. Becoming more positive by appreciating small things and the importance of people around me 2-3. Expanding my horizons and values through meeting diverse people 3-3. Improving self-esteem and loving myself 4-3. Becoming a confident person with firm beliefs in myself! |
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PROJECT ACTIVITIES
This project is a volunteer activity project aimed at protecting endangered wolves by staying together with volunteers of various nationalities in a wolf sanctuary located in Portugal.
■ Activity Schedule
1. Activity Days
- The project starts on Monday and ends on Friday.
- Check-in is on Sunday, the day before the program starts, and check-out is the Monday after the program ends.
- Participants can stay at the volunteer accommodation from Friday after activities end until Monday.
* The project runs annually from February to November.
2. Activity Details
Volunteers will participate in a range of activities at the center on a daily basis.
Examples:
- Assisting with food preparation for the wolves and conducting regular monitoring and observation of water supply.
- Performing maintenance and management of facilities and the center for wolf protection.
- Conducting fire prevention and clearing activities in the forest areas surrounding the wolf sanctuary.
- Observing and checking the health of wolves inhabiting the sanctuary.
- Activities may vary depending on participant capabilities and weather conditions. During summer, activities start earlier than in winter, and breaks are provided during the hottest periods.
3. Example Activity Schedule
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Time |
Detailed Activities |
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08:00 ~ 09:00 |
Wake-up and Breakfast (Accommodation) |
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09:00 ~ 13:00 |
Volunteer Work (Morning) |
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13:00 ~ 14:30 |
Lunch |
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14:30 ~ 17:00 |
Volunteer Work (Afternoon) |
* The above schedule is for reference and may vary based on activities.
- Outside of scheduled activities, participants have free time for travel, study, rest, or personal projects.
- If desired, the organization can arrange various activities such as surfing, Portuguese lessons, or nearby travel.
(Additional costs ranging from €25 to €120 may apply, to be determined locally)
■ Other Precautions
- This activity involves a lot of outdoor activities and requires a basic level of fitness. Please prepare comfortable clothing and shoes to facilitate smooth movement. It is advisable to wear hiking shoes as you may need to climb hills.
- Considering the local characteristics, it is recommended to prepare warm clothes in winter and light clothes in summer.
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Tips from the organizer for participants! This project primarily involves outdoor activities and requires a good level of physical fitness. You might need to carry heavy loads (around 8kg) during the activities! Additionally, the project takes place near a forested valley where you can experience nature in its raw form. The area has many unpaved roads and rough terrain, so it's important to be physically prepared for these conditions. Therefore, if you have any health concerns or need assistance, it's important to communicate actively with the local coordinators. The local experts will adjust the activities to accommodate your health conditions as much as possible! :) |
■ Departure and Local Orientation Information
- Before participating in the project, there will be a local orientation and pre-training for volunteering.
Please purchase your flight or transportation to arrive one day before the project start date (Sunday) for orientation.
- On the first day of the project (Monday), there will be an orientation covering city tours, basic Portuguese conversation, and other activities and daily life.
■ PICK-UP SERVICE Provided (One Way)Participants will arrive at 'Humberto Delgado Airport' in Lisbon, Portugal. The accommodation is about a 40-minute drive from the airport. Participants arriving at 'Humberto Delgado Airport' will be safely transported to their accommodation by a local coordinator. Pick-up is available from 9 AM to 9 PM. Additional costs will apply for pick-ups outside these hours.
* Detailed transportation methods will be provided during the orientation.
* The pick-up method may be subject to change based on local conditions.
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■ English Proficiency Needed ★★☆☆☆
Most local activities and communications with volunteers will be conducted in English, so participants will be exposed to an English-speaking environment. As long as you can communicate in English at a basic level, anyone can participate! |
INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION
This project is conducted in collaboration with a social enterprise operating in Lisbon, Portugal. *In line with the 15th Sustainable Development Goal, "Life on Land," established by the UN, this project is run in cooperation with a nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to protecting wolves and the ecosystem in Portugal. Participants will receive education and safely engage in activities with this organization. This organization aims to not only educate volunteers from around the world about the importance of environmental ecosystems but also provide opportunities and insights through participation in protective activities.
* Sustainable Development Goals: SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)
Sustainable Development Goals refer to the 17 goals announced by the UN General Assembly for future international development for humanity and the planet. Among these, the 15th goal is focused on "Protecting Terrestrial Ecosystems."
Hello! I am Rita, the project coordinator. My amazing team and I would like to invite you to join this project :) Would you like to participate in activities for social facilities and the environment in Lisbon, Portugal, and create positive energy in the community?You will have the chance to meet new friends from around the world who have cultures completely different from yours,adventure together, and make unforgettable and enjoyable memories.You will have time to grow personally and create meaningful experiences for the community you help.We are responsible for your safety and comfort.We look forward to meeting you in Lisbon. Join us!
ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION
■ Volunteer Accommodation Information
The volunteer accommodation is managed to allow foreign volunteers from various nationalities to live together. Located within the wolf sanctuary, it is operated by the managing organization and the volunteers themselves. The volunteer accommodation, in the form of a chalet (a cabin built in the mountains), is equipped with a washing machine, oven, refrigerator, cooking utensils, and dishware.
Wi-Fi is available only at the office reception.Rooms are generally not separated by gender, and volunteers interact with people of various nationalities. (Accommodates up to 4 people, with a shared kitchen and bathroom provided)Although this place is away from the city center and may present some challenges in accessing amenities, it provides an opportunity for those who want to relax in nature and enjoy some personal time!
Volunteers will prepare their own meals in the accommodation. The center's staff assist volunteers with transportation for grocery shopping after lunch on Tuesdays and Fridays. (Volunteers can usually go shopping once a week, with up to 2 people traveling together at a time)
* The photos are taken for understanding purposes and may differ slightly from reality.
■ Local Orientation and Pre-Arrival Accommodation Information
The following accommodation and meal details apply for the first 3 days of the project. After these 3 days, you will move to the volunteer accommodation located within the wolf sanctuary.
You will stay in an eco-friendly volunteer house in Lisbon, where you can live with international volunteers. During your volunteering period, you will have the opportunity to interact with international friends and experience various cultures. The accommodation is easily accessible to the volunteer activity site and various tourist attractions in Lisbon. It is also managed by a coordinator, ensuring safety. The accommodation, designed for marine protection, features various themes related to climate awareness and action, making it another learning journey. The volunteer house, with a beautiful outdoor terrace, is located just a 5-minute walk from the beach, and public transportation to the volunteer activity site takes about 45 minutes or can be reached on foot depending on the location.
Rooms accommodate 6 to 14 people, with beds designed and arranged to offer some privacy even in shared rooms. Free Wi-Fi and basic bedding are provided, and common facilities include shared bathrooms, an outdoor terrace, and a kitchen with cooking utensils.
Meals are provided in a buffet style with various options, including Portuguese local cuisine. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. If you wish to eat out, you can request takeout in advance and enjoy your meal at your preferred location. Laundry can be done at the accommodation upon request for approximately 5 euros per load or at a nearby self-service laundromat.
| Shared Rooms (Separated by Gender) / Shared Bathrooms / Free Wi-Fi / Basic Bedding / Personal Lockers / Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Provided / 24-Hour Staff Presence |
* The accommodation is a dormitory-style shared room. Additionally, private rooms are available. Upgrading to a private room is possible for an additional fee. Availability is confirmed at the time of application and can be added as an option at the top.
* Public transportation or walking is used to travel between the project location and the accommodation, with additional local transportation costs expected (approximately 30-40 euros per week, varying by activity location)
* Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Lactose Intolerance and other special dietary requirements should be inquired about separately.
* Accommodation may vary depending on the local organization’s circumstances.
LOCATION INTRODUCTION
Location: Lisbon, Portugal
■ Lisbon, Portugal / Mafra
This project starts with an orientation in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, and then you will move to the city of Mafra, located northwest of Lisbon, following the guidance of the current staff. Mafra is known for its agricultural production and is particularly famous for the Mafra Palace and Convent, considered masterpieces of Portuguese Baroque architecture. Participants will work at the wolf sanctuary center in Mafra and stay in accommodations operated for volunteers while participating in activities. During weekdays, enjoy your time in nature while engaging in activities, and explore the charming Portuguese city on weekends with fellow volunteers!
Top 3 Recommended Travel Destinations by the Planner
Eligibility
- Anyone over the age of 18 who is physically healthy
- Those tired of the typical European trips and planning a unique European experience
- Those interested in environmental ecosystem protection and endangered animal conservation
- Those who want to enjoy both the fun of travel and the specialness of volunteering
- Those who need relaxation alone but feel they might be lonely traveling solo
- Those who want to escape the city and spend simple activities in nature while having personal time to rest
- Those who want to create new memories with local Portuguese volunteers and volunteers from around the world
SCHEDULE AND PRICES
- The minimum participation period for this project is at least 2 weeks .
| Period | Participation Fee |
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2 weeks |
2,570,000 won |
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4 weeks |
3,640,000 won |
■ Gap Year Inclusions
| Item | Details |
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Accommodation and Meals |
- Dormitory-style accommodation for the first 2 days where you can interact with volunteers from around the world and relax comfortably - Cabin-style volunteer accommodation within the wolf protection center - Delicious local meals made from local ingredients, 3 times a day (for the first 2 days) - Common areas where you can make friends with other international volunteers |
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Project Activities |
- Safe pick-up service from the airport to the accommodation (one way) - Transfer from Lisbon to the Mafra Center after orientation (one way) - Comprehensive local orientation covering the basics of life in Portugal - City tour to enjoy Portugal with other international volunteers - Portuguese cultural class where you can meet local friends - Volunteer work with a Portuguese wolf environmental non-profit organization - Reliable insurance to cover the participant's safety during volunteer hours (*coverage under limited conditions) - Dependable local manager - 24/7 emergency contact network! Contact us immediately if anything happens - SIM card provided for use locally (*individual top-up required) - Travel tips to help you live like a local |
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Care Services |
- Participant dispatch procedures : Project registration and dispatch procedures - Orientation provided : Various orientation information to help you have a successful gap year - OT materials : Materials with tips from planners for safely going abroad for the first time - Gap Year Journal : A journal to reflect on yourself during the gap year(▶ See more) - Gap Year Mission Discount : (See details below) |
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Certificate and Recommendation Letter |
- Issuance of a local volunteer activity certificate - Issuance of Korea Gap Year participation certificate and activity completion certificate * The issuance of local certificates and recommendation letters will be done upon the participant's request after the project ends. The format or issuance of these documents may vary according to the local organization's procedures. * Certificates and recommendation letters are issued after completing the project and submitting feedback.
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- Provided Services: Gap Year Mission and Notes Automatic Application / OT Materials Provided Immediately Upon Confirmation / Additional Emergency Staffing / Support for Document Preparation if Needed, etc.
* If you have difficulty calculating dates, please refer to the Naver date calculator >> Naver Date Calculator
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- Round-trip airfare - Individual travel insurance - Cost of individual food purchases beyond the initial 2 days - Cost of travel from Mafra to Lisbon after the end of the program (one-way) - Other local expenses |
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