Azores: Sustainable Farming & Social Inclusion Programme

Introduction

Experience the beauty of São Miguel Island while making a meaningful impact through sustainable farming and social inclusion initiatives. Volunteers work alongside local organizations to maintain vegetable gardens, nurseries, and craft projects, helping to create opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment, including people with disabilities. Through hands-on farming activities, you will contribute to personal development, skill-building, and a more inclusive community.

The Sustainable Farming Program provides volunteers with the opportunity to engage in responsible and inclusive agricultural practices. You will assist in planting, watering, and general garden maintenance, supporting farms and green spaces that serve as platforms for social and professional development. By working directly with nature, this project promotes sustainability, environmental awareness, and community engagement, ensuring that farming remains both a livelihood and a tool for empowerment.

Daily Life

As part of the Sustainable Farming & Social Inclusion Program, volunteers engage in a variety of activities that promote environmental sustainability and community development:

Gardening: Assist with planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting vegetables and legumes, contributing to responsible and inclusive farming practices.

Craft Workshops: Encourage creativity and sustainability by repurposing recyclable materials into new handmade objects.

Event Support: Help organize community events and assist in selling locally made handicrafts and food products to support social initiatives.

Content Creation: Support the organization by documenting and promoting the efforts of participants and volunteers through photos, videos, or written content.

This hands-on experience allows volunteers to contribute to meaningful social and environmental change while gaining practical skills in sustainable farming and community engagement.

Travel and Accom.

Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be greeted and transported to our project.

Volunteers will be accommodated in dormitories at a centrally located youth hostel. The dormitories are available in female-only or mixed-gender options and feature private bathrooms shared with other occupants in the room.

You will enjoy three meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—provided at the hostel. The menu features local cuisine prepared in local style, offering a delightful mix of meat, fish, and fresh vegetables.

Upon arrival, volunteers will attend an orientation event that includes an introduction to local culture, an overview of the volunteer experience and program details, practical information, and safety guidelines.

Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in a guided city tour, receiving insider tips to help them discover the best of what the city has to offer.

Requirements

• Minimum age 18
• Passion and enthusiasm for the project
• Not afraid to get involved!
• Ability to work within a team environment
• Minimum 1 week commitment
• Good English skills
• Necessary vaccinations
• Necessary flight & visas
• Full travel & medical insurance. Full assistance will be provided in getting everything you will need ready if you choose our Placement Support Package.

Costs

€1025 Euros for the first week.

2 weeks – €1415
3 weeks – €1805
4 weeks – €2195
5 weeks – €2585
6 weeks – €2975

* Check the latest currency conversions with xe.com
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Placements are confirmed with a €500 deposit, minimum 1 week booking

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes;

• All food,
• Accommodation,
• Airport pickup,
• Orientation,
• Sim card
• Guided tour of city
• 24/7 in-country support and
• All project related activities.

What’s not included:

• Flights
• Travel Insurance
• Airport drop-off
• Personal expenses
• Visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.