Volunteering in Greece:
Humanitarian Projects That Make a Difference

1 - 3 weeks | Winter 2024-25 And Summer 2025

Have direct impact on the local community

If you’re looking to make a positive impact while exploring the beauty of Greece, consider getting involved in one of the many humanitarian projects available across year round. Volunteering in Greece with Philotimo Med Abroad not only allows you to contribute to local communities but also offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Greek culture and traditions.

This program offers an amazing opportunity for suitable applicants who are 18 years and over to work alongside qualified medical professionals and gain first-hand insight into the global healthcare system. It is open to those with experience and/or education in the field of medicine, as well as med-school and pre-med students. Volunteers on this project will need at least an intermediate understanding of English to communicate effectively with patients and staff. Naturally, all applicants must also have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive ‘can-do’ attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!

Your involvement can help uplift communities while also enriching your personal experience in this beautiful country.

The Philotimo Med Volunteer progect in Greece

Engage in a variety of projects within sectors such as education, social services, medicine and environmental conservation. Choose from programs like language teaching, educational support, or community outreach.
Play a crucial role in providing aid and support to refugees residing in Larissa. Assist with language classes, distribute essential educational materials, and help connect individuals with local resources to aid their integration into society.
Your contributions will leave a lasting imprint on the community. By volunteering in Larissa, you help create positive change, support vulnerable populations, and promote social equity.

Diverse Volunteer Opportunities in Greece

Advanced medical placements are available for licensed professionals or students in the last two years of medical school.
These are volunteer placements that are offered in hospitals and refugee camps.
As an international volunteer, you can work alongside doctors, nurses, therapists, and other medical professionals.
Your responsibilities and type of work will depend on the placement available and what is happening at the project site.
Depending on your medical experience and language skills, you may be required to shadow a doctor or nurse, assist with general check-ups, run medical campaigns, triage, take blood pressure and other vital signs, organize patient records, prepare materials and equipment, and assist during mealtimes or creating a learning project.

Certificate of Participation

Upon completing your placement, receive a certificate recognizing your contributions and experiences. This can enhance your resume and professional portfolio.

A volunteer experience like this also changes you as a person. You’ll learn a lot about yourself on your trip, and make lasting memories with the friends you meet along the way.

The City of Larissa

Larissa is the capital city and the largest city located in the Thessaly region of Greece.
It is the fifth most populous city in Greece. The city of Larissa is modern with beautiful squares, neighborhoods, and parks.
Larissa is famous for being the city of Hippocrates, who resided and died there.
It has numerous commercial shops and offers plenty of options for food and entertainment.
Known as the “city of coffee” due to its more than 1600 cafeterias. However, other than relaxing and drinking coffee, you should spend some time sightseeing.

Why volunteering?

Philotimo is a program that supports local staff and contributes to cultural exchange and life skills development for people of all ages.
Your ideas and enthusiasm can be extremely valuable in areas where people are not accustomed to working together or believe that they cannot accomplish great things.

Excursions during your volunteer program

Visit the Monument and tomb of Hippocrates
Hike and swim in a hidden waterfall
Boat tours
Explore Meteora, Asclepiou and trikala
Horse riding in Mount Olympus
Try some of the world’s most delicious street food.
Splash around the beautiful and unspoiled clear blue waters.
Explore Meteora.

Who is
Elegible

Our programs are ongoing and host volunteers year-round. However, to ensure a smooth transition, volunteers should plan to arrive every Saturday.

We have a 1-week minimum and a 4-week maximum.

Volunteer must:

• Be 17 years or older
• Have no major health problems and current Yellow Fever and COVID vaccination certificates

• Criminal background check

• Be able to walk distances of up to 2km daily

• Sign a general waiver of liability
• Have a positive and collaborative attitude

Global
Networking

Increase access to and quality of healthcare in refugee camp
Help improve the health and wellbeing of people from under-resourced communities
Educate local communities on how to stay healthy
Get hands-on experience supported by a qualified medical professional
Learn new skills from local medics and other volunteers from around the world
Expand your global medical perspective and explore your career path
Boost your resume, career prospects or med school application

Making
Impact

The experiences you will gain through Philotimo Med Abroad are truly transformative and will have a lasting impact on both your personal and professional life. During your journey, you will have the opportunity to witness groundbreaking medical advancements and innovations, while also building lifelong friendships with like-minded individuals. These experiences will help shape you into a well-rounded and culturally aware healthcare professional, and will leave you with unforgettable memories and cherished moments to last a lifetime.

Pre and medical volunteer program

Healthcare placements are available for people who are not licensed and who are still completing their training. These volunteer projects are generally located in specialized living facilities and involve assisting elderly patients or working with children and other patients.

Diverse Roles

- Participate in a range of roles that may include:
  - Assisting in health education workshops
  - Supporting local staff in community clinics, and shelters
  - Conducting community awareness campaigns on health issues
  - Helping with administrative tasks in healthcare facilities
Guidance from Professionals
- Work under the supervision of licensed healthcare practitioners who will provide mentorship and support. Receive valuable insight into best practices and professional standards in the healthcare field.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
- Collaborate with a team of volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including medical students, nursing trainees, and health science students. Share knowledge and experiences, enhancing your understanding of different healthcare perspectives.
Language Support
- While knowledge of Greek is beneficial, it is not a requirement. Training and support will be provided, and many staff members speak English, easing communication barriers.

Apply
to Volunteer!

Please fill out and submit the online application form. This will help us understand why you want to volunteer.
We will do our best to respond within 48 hours. This information will help us determine if we are a good match to work together.
Our Program Directors will suggest a host program that matches your skills and interests.

Placement
Offer

After we review your suitability and accept you into our program, a deposit of $500 is needed to confirm your place.
The remaining balance of your Program Fee (excluding your initial $500 deposit payment) will be due no later than 30 days before your internship start date.
For secure payment, Philotimo Med Abroad accepts Bank transfer, PayPal, Zelle and Venmo.

Confirm
Placement

Before your arrival, once we receive your deposit you’ll be given an orientation document and description of your host organization. Included are details of your work, responsibilities, security, location, food, accommodation, and vaccinations needed.
You’ll also receive our general waiver of liability and code of conduct to be signed on arrival as part of your volunteer service.

Stay in comfy & safe accommodation during your shadowing program!

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and luxury while participating in our shadowing program at Philotimo Med Abroad. Our carefully selected accommodation offer a safety and convenience , providing a home away from home for our participants. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, spacious living areas, and stunning views, ensuring you have a relaxing environment to unwind after a day of learning. Enjoy the unique opportunity to connect with fellow students in a vibrant setting while immersing yourself in the beauty of Greece. With our safe accommodations, your journey into the medical field will be as enjoyable as it is educational!

Included with the fees

*Note that the program start date listed is always a Saturday and your housing is available from that day.

Testimonials

The Philotimo Volunteer program was the most rewarding experience I have ever had, working with a committed and collaborative group of volunteers

Such a great life experience. Great people! I loved the different experiences in Larissa.

Little did I know how much my volunteering would change my life?

The support from Love and their in-country coordinators was perfect.

The volunteer experience was fantastic! It was truly a life-changing experience. The owner and manager of Philotimo is extremely dedicated and hard-working.

Volunteering in Greece:
Humanitarian Projects That Make a Difference

1 - 3 weeks | Winter 2024-25 And Summer 2025

Have direct impact on the local community

The Philotimo Med Volunteer progect in Greece