Volunteers who choose to be part of this amazing project will assist at a children's center on the outskirts of the Albanian capital, Tirana. The center welcomes children from various parts of the suburbs of Tirana, primarily from the Roma community, street children, and those at risk of exploitation. Many families have migrated from different regions of Albania, mainly from the north, to Tirana in search of better living conditions and job opportunities.
The project offers these vulnerable children the opportunity to receive an education, learn life skills, participate in sports and fun activities such as arts and games, and enjoy nutritious meals, things that are often difficult for them to access. Volunteers help by teaching, playing, and inspiring these wonderful children.
This incredible project provides a safe and happy space for vulnerable children to learn and grow. Within the walls of the community center, children are in a positive environment where they can be themselves, free from the discrimination they face in mainstream society. Currently, around 40-50 children attend the center, where they are divided into two groups based on their age (7 to 11 years and 12 to 16 years).
Responsibilities:
Volunteers can assist with the following
Example of a Workday:
A volunteer's workday typically lasts between 4 and 6 hours. While we ask all volunteers to be flexible, a typical day might look like this:
Throughout the day, there will be tea and lunch breaks, but the timing of these can change based on the needs of the local staff and the number of volunteers present.
In the evenings, volunteers are welcome to explore the area or simply relax with other volunteers.
Martha vrijwilliger in Albanië
Het was een leerzame ervaring, die me geholpen heeft mijn grenzen te verleggen!
Monday to Friday, approximately from 9:00am to 3:30pm
The project hosts volunteers year-round. In addition, there are about five permanent staff members (project coordinator, activity coordinator, teacher, psychologist, and cook).
The language spoken on this project is English.
This project is not available in August, at Christmas, or during the end-of-year holidays. July is usually fully booked as well.
In Albania, you’ll stay in a comfortable volunteer house located near the centre of Tirana. Each shared room accommodates up to four volunteers and includes shared bathroom facilities and common areas. The house has a tidy kitchen and a dining area where volunteers can prepare meals and snacks in a homely environment.
All standard amenities are provided in the volunteer house, including hot showers, Western-style bathrooms, bedding, and a functional kitchen.
An Albanian expression sums up the hospitality you can expect during your stay in Tirana: “Buke, kripe dhe zemer” (bread, salt, and a warm heart).
Meals are not included in the program fee. Volunteers can use the kitchen to prepare their own meals or enjoy one of the many restaurants, bars, and cafés located near the volunteer house. Lunch is provided during the project days, except on weekends when the project is closed.
Volunteers may be picked up and dropped off by the project’s minibus, which also transports staff. Alternatively, you can walk to the project. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the volunteer house.
If you have a bit of extra space in your luggage and would like to bring something for the project, it would be greatly appreciated. Just check in with us first so we can recommend useful and appropriate items to bring.
Arrival/departure airport: Tirana International Airport “Nene Tereza”, Tirana, Albania (Code: TIA)
Volunteers will be warmly welcomed upon arrival in Tirana and brought to the volunteer house to meet the other volunteers and settle into their new surroundings. An orientation session will be held for all new volunteers.
Take a look at the optional trips available to see what you can do in your free time! There are some incredible excursions you can join. Since you’re already in such a beautiful destination, it’s the perfect chance to explore more of the country!
Altin is the volunteer coordinator. He is very involved with the volunteer work and speaks excellent English. He’s available for the volunteers 24/7.
For this project, we’re looking for volunteers who want to help at a children’s centre in Tirana. The centre supports children from vulnerable communities, such as the Roma community and street children, by offering education, life skills, sports, and creative activities.
This project is suitable for volunteers aged 17 and over.
Childcare and Education
A genuine enthusiasm for working with children is of course essential.
Initiative and Proactiveness
The ability to work independently and organise activities.
Patience and Empathy
Being understanding and patient when working with vulnerable children.
Cultural Sensitivity
Respect for local customs and traditions.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Willingness to adapt to various circumstances in Albania.
Communication Skills
Being able to collaborate effectively with local staff and fellow volunteers.
Team Spirit
Teamwork is an important part of this project.
You’ll help organise sports, games, arts, and other activities, assist with homework support, and help out with meals. Working hours are Monday to Friday, from 9:00am to 3:30pm. Volunteers stay in a shared volunteer house with communal facilities, located near the centre of Tirana.
Your time in Albania offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, cultural exchange, and unforgettable experiences.
If you’re passionate about childcare and education and are ready to contribute in a meaningful way, this project in Albania could be the perfect fit for you. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the quality of life for these children.
We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.
Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.
We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.
Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.
We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.
You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.
If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team
3 weeks of volunteer work: $1419
$260 for each additional week.
*All prices are in AUD.
Before departure
Online introduction meeting
Information pack with details about the culture and customs in Albania, as well as a checklist of preparations to make, including information about insurance, finances, and travel tips
Pre-departure training
Help with applying for a Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
Access to the online community
Assistance with your visa application
Help booking your flight (upon request)
During your stay
Airport transfer to the project
On-site orientation
Support with visa extensions (if needed)
Guidance and support throughout your entire stay
Accommodation in the volunteer house
Upon return
Evaluation session
Certificate (upon request)
Option to remain active in our WhatsApp community
Memories for life!
Flights
Vaccinations
Visa
Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
Meals
Travel insurance
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