Programs
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FAQ
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PROJECT INTRODUCTION
In beautiful Split, Croatia, with its mild Mediterranean weather and stunning scenery, there are still many stray dogs and cats, just like in many other places. In this project, you'll help care for these injured animals, giving them love and attention, as well as managing their hygiene and promoting adoption. How about healing through Croatia's peaceful environment while sharing love with these animals? Even a short stay will provide a significant amount of love and care.
* This project is operated according to Goal 17 of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
■ Project Activities and Examples
- Assisting with bathing and grooming to maintain cleanliness
- Building bonds with the animals through play
- Helping with socialization during walks
- Measuring height and weight
- Taking photos and short videos for adoption promotion
- Creating comfortable environments or small structures for play
* These activities are simple and adaptable to the needs of the organization on a daily basis.
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Q. Why is it important to engage with stray dogs and cats? Animal shelters aim to help animals overcome their past traumas and live new lives. Playing with and caring for these animals can help them heal from the pain of being abandoned and help them reconnect with people.
This project does not require high levels of English proficiency. Although you will communicate with volunteers from around the world and work with local staff in English, the main focus is on caring for animals, so a high level of English is not necessary. :) A proactive attitude towards communication is sufficient! |
- This project starts on the first and third Mondays of each month and ends on Fridays. (From May to the end of August, it starts every Monday.)
- Check-in is on the Sunday before the start date, and check-out is on the Saturday following the end date.
* Generally, weekends are free, and activities take place from Monday to Friday.
■ Project Activity Schedule
Volunteering typically involves about 3 to 5 hours per day, divided into morning, afternoon, or evening schedules depending on the organization.
The schedule below is an example for the first week; from the second week onward, Mondays will follow the same schedule as other weekdays.
The schedule may be flexible according to personal needs.
■ Additional Information
- In the mornings, you will receive useful information such as Croatian culture, local introductions, project details, basic Croatian language lessons, and safety guidelines. After lunch, there will be a 2-hour city tour of Split. If needed, you can use this time to get assistance from local staff to purchase transportation cards, local SIM cards (up to 10 euros), exchange money, etc.
- Saturdays and Sundays are entirely free, allowing you to explore the city or travel to other Croatian regions or European countries.
- If you prefer to have lunch at the volunteering site, you can take food in a lunch box during restaurant hours (lunch box case provided).
* If you wish to continue Croatian language classes after the orientation, you can do so for an additional fee. Please contact Korea Gap Year for more details.
Photography not previously agreed upon is strictly prohibited for this project.
SUPPORT
 Local Orientation |
 Online Orientation |
 Online Consultation |
 Local Institution Completion Certificate |
 KGY Certification |
 Pre-Departure Care |
 KGY Consultation |
 KGY Mission |
 24hr Emergency Care |
 Flight Ticket Booking Assistance |
 Real-Time Consultation Service |
 KGY Note Book |
 Project and Participation Costs |
 KGY Mission Scholarship |
 OT Documents |
 Local Accommodation |
 Pickup Service Upon Arrival |
 Local Meals |
 Local Coordinator |
 Project Progress and Training |
 Local Free Activities |
 Local Tour Guide |
 Major City Tour |
 Local Language Class |
 Travel Tips |
Exclusions
- Round-trip airfare
- Other local expenses (such as lodging outside, dining out, transportation, etc.)
- Individual travel insurance
INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION
This project is conducted by a B-Corp certified social enterprise. Established in 2013 and operating mainly in Europe, this organization offers various experiences that emphasize social responsibility. They have collaborated with over 350 non-profits and contributed more than 40,000 hours of service, continually working towards creating a positive impact on society through shared experiences of social responsibility.
*B-Corp: An international certification tool used to measure a company’s social and environmental performance.
■ Message from the Founder
Hello! I am Rita, the founder of the organization.
Volunteering abroad is a great opportunity to meet new people from diverse cultures and acquire new skills. Engaging in activities that focus on the local culture and assist the community can be incredibly meaningful, often beyond what you can anticipate without experiencing it firsthand. Investing just 3-5 hours a day can make a significant impact on the local community.
How about spending some time for yourself in beautiful and pleasant Croatia while dedicating just a portion of your day to volunteering? It will surely help you grow beyond your expectations.
ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION
Participants will stay in a hostel provided by the local organization. The accommodation focuses on maintaining harmony with nature to create a sustainable world. It features a vintage feel with furniture made from locally produced organic materials, providing an experience of positive future design. The local organization is committed to reducing water usage and supporting environmental protection by producing and consuming local food. The hostel offers common areas such as a dining room and lounge where you can interact with volunteers from various countries.
| 4-8 bed dorms (mixed/gender-segregated) / Lockers for belongings / Wi-Fi /
Air conditioning / Bed linens / Towels provided / Dining room / Lounge / |
The accommodation is located in the center of Split, within a 5-minute walk from a bus stop that provides access to the volunteer sites and a 10-minute walk to the city center. The area around the hostel is conveniently equipped with supermarkets, cafes, ATMs, pharmacies, and other public facilities. Additionally, laundry services are available at the hostel for approximately €10 per load.
Three meals a day are provided. Breakfast includes toast, cereal, spreads, fresh fruit, eggs, tea, coffee, and juice, served in the common area. Lunch and dinner are provided at a restaurant located below the hostel, offering traditional Croatian dishes made with fresh local ingredients. You can choose from vegetarian, meat, or fish dishes, which will be prepared upon request.
- This project tends to fill up quickly, so we recommend applying as soon as possible if you wish to participate.
- If you prefer a private room, please contact Korea Gap Year for individual inquiries.
LOCATION INTRODUCTION
Location: Croatia, Split
Croatia occupies part of the Balkan Peninsula and is a must-visit country for anyone traveling to Eastern Europe. Known for its beautiful old towns, stunning beaches, and over a thousand islands, Croatia has historically been influenced by both Mediterranean and Eastern European cultures due to its history with Rome and the Turks. This rich cultural diversity is one of the country’s defining characteristics.
Split is Croatia's second-largest city and a prominent port city. It offers a friendly and peaceful atmosphere for tourists and has preserved important historical sites due to not being bombed during World War II. Split’s most notable landmark is the Palace of Diocletian from the Roman era, along with its old town, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site—making it the first Croatian site to be registered. Experience the unique blend of Eastern European and Mediterranean vibes in Split. The Roman-era scenery, pleasant ambiance, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and warm sunshine will enrich your experience.
Eligibility
- Individuals who can communicate basic ideas in English
- Adults aged 18 and over
- Those interested in volunteering while traveling in Croatia and neighboring countries
- Individuals wanting to experience exotic cultures while caring for animals
- Those preferring to volunteer in a location with better safety than other European countries
- Animal lovers who are confident in playing and interacting with animals
- Students studying in Europe looking for meaningful experiences
SCHEDULE AND PRICES
■ This project starts on the first and third Mondays of each month. (From May to the end of August, it will start every Monday.)
■ The minimum duration for participating in this project is 1 week.
■ The costs below include project fees, accommodation, and one-way airport pickup service.
| Duration | Price | Duration | Price |
| 1 week | 2,010,000 KRW | 7 weeks | 5,670,000 KRW |
| 2 weeks | 2,610,000 KRW | 8 weeks | 6,280,000 KRW |
| 3 weeks | 3,230,000 KRW | 9 weeks | 6,890,000 KRW |
| 4 weeks | 3,830,000 KRW | 10 weeks | 7,500,000 KRW |
| 5 weeks | 4,450,000 KRW | 11 weeks | 8,110,000 KRW |
| 6 weeks | 5,050,000 KRW | 12 weeks | 8,720,000 KRW |
■ Gap Year Mission Scholarship (▶ More Details)
■ Payment Options
If full payment is difficult, you can make an initial deposit of 500,000 KRW and pay the remaining amount within 2 weeks. After the initial deposit, the process for confirming project participation will begin based on the date of the deposit, and you will be informed of your eligibility and availability. Quick seat reservation is crucial for participating on your desired dates and duration! (Refunds are not available once confirmed.)
* Note that the schedule for paying the remaining balance may vary depending on the proximity to the start date.
■ Early Bird Discount and Emergency Application
We recommend applying for all gap year projects at least 3 months before the start date due to the normal processing procedures and preparation time. Applications should be made no later than 2 months before the start date. If you need to apply urgently, an additional fee will be required for expedited processing.
* Although we strive to expedite the process, there are basic time requirements for communication with local agencies and confirming participation. Those using the emergency application service must cooperate actively with the Korea Gap Year team.
** Applicants who apply 180 days or more before the start date will receive an early bird discount.
*** The emergency application service can be selected from the options above. For inquiries regarding emergency applications, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.
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- Provided: Automatic application for Gap Year missions and notes / Complete OT materials upon confirmation / Additional emergency staffing / Support for required documents, etc.
* If you have difficulty calculating dates, please refer to the Naver Date Calculator >> Naver Date Calculator
** Note: In the case of ultra-urgent applications, there may be no availability due to local circumstances, and the process will proceed according to Gap Year refund regulations. Issues arising from the participant's lack of cooperation are the participant's responsibility.
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