Cleaning beaches, opening roads, fire watching and studying the sea’s biodiversity are some of the tasks foreign volunteers are eager to take up upon their arrival in Greece.

Greek non-governmental, non-profit organizations such as "Archelon," attract volunteers who sign up either through the internet or NGO’s connection with international networks such as the Alliance of European Voluntary Service Organisations. Since 1987, projects run in Greece have lured some 4,800 young foreign nationals. Last year, in Crete alone, 148 foreign volunteers aged 20 to 30 provided services ranging from cleaning up the beaches to helping sea turtles laying their eggs in a safer environment. 

Sometimes, it is foreign universities that encourage their students to visit Greece, on the basis of some already established exchange programmes. Once in Greece, foreign volunteers are welcomed with enthusiasm with local communities embracing their offer and appreciating the volunteers’ valuable help.