In June, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a two-and-a-half-week volunteering project in Samobor, Croatia, focused on environmental initiatives. Our main objective was to construct goat and rabbit houses in the beautiful garden of Greenville, the project’s location.

The project brought together over 20 individuals from diverse nationalities, including France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Greece, Croatia, Macedonia, Bosnia, Sweden, and Poland. It was truly inspiring to work alongside such a multicultural and enthusiastic group of volunteers, all driven by a shared passion for environmental conservation.

During our time in Samobor, we resided in a charming house together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among the volunteers. The accommodation provided a comfortable and welcoming environment, allowing us to recharge after our fulfilling days of work.

One aspect that made the volunteering experience even more memorable was the provision of delicious meals. We were fortunate to be treated to well-prepared and nourishing food, which not only fueled our physical energy but also provided an opportunity for cultural exchange as we shared traditional dishes from our respective countries.

The construction of the goat and rabbit houses was a significant undertaking that required teamwork, creativity, and technical skills. We worked diligently, learning from one another and overcoming challenges together. Witnessing the tangible progress we made each day was immensely rewarding, knowing that our efforts would benefit the animals and contribute to the sustainability of Greenville.

Beyond the construction work, the project fostered an atmosphere of friendship and mutual learning. We engaged in cultural exchanges, sharing stories, traditions, and perspectives from our home countries. This intercultural dialogue enriched our understanding of the world and forged lasting connections among the volunteers.

Overall, my experience in the Samobor volunteering project was truly transformative. I not only had the opportunity to contribute to an important environmental initiative but also formed lifelong friendships with individuals from different corners of the world. The combination of meaningful work, comfortable accommodation, and delicious meals created a truly remarkable and memorable experience.

I am grateful for the chance to have been a part of this project and if you have the opportunity to do a volunteering project with this organization, just do it. You won’t regret it! (Alexis)