Volunteering in a foreign country enables you to experience life as a local. You get to experience a new city by living amongst, mingling with, and contributing to the locals. I have travelled a lot but this was, in my opinion, the best way to get a taste of day to day life in a new country. The volunteer coordinator was absolutely amazing. She oriented us to the culture, things to do, and always made sure we knew she was available in case we had any questions or concerns. The organization we worked was absolutely wonderful. Their work and contribution to the community was truly inspiring. I am glad I got to know and learn from the team!
Sustainable Farming Volunteering in Rome - Italy
Purpose
Support the community through farming
Start dates
Programs start every second and fourth Monday of the month
Duration
Choose from 2-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 18+
Accommodation
Shared twin rooms at camping lodge
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Hands-on volunteers who care about sustainability, conservation and social inclusion. As your tasks will vary based on the season, you should be open to helping out in any kind of activity that is prioritized while you’re there.
Project details
Curious about Sustainable Farming volunteering in Italy - Rome? International Volunteer HQ’s Sustainable Farming project empowers volunteers to get their hands dirty at one of Rome’s many farms and parks. Volunteers may have the opportunity to work side by side with migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, as well as with people with disabilities, the elderly and even children. Taking part in this hands-on initiative with a focus on multiculturalism, sustainability and ecology enables these groups to gain professional skills and increase social inclusion and engagement which can improve their quality of life.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
The Sustainable Farming project gives volunteers a taste of the Roman countryside while supporting a social integration model and assisting with a range of seasonal tasks. The goal of this project is to maximize production and help with the care of vegetables and aromatic plants in the garden while also empowering the local people you’re working alongside to gain professional skills.
As a Sustainable Farming volunteer you’ll be helping with a range of activities that vary according to the season and local priorities. You can expect to do some of the following:
- Planting, weeding, watering and general care for the garden which hosts a collection of plants typical to the Mediterranean area
- Cultivating and harvesting vegetables and legumes in the large garden
- Craft workshop activities creating objects of various designs using waste or recyclable materials
- Urban beekeeping and honey production
- Taking care of farm animals
- Multi-ethnic cooking sessions
- Helping with events and the sale of handicraft and food products
- Running playful design workshops for children
- Urban redevelopment interventions, entirely with recycled material
Any profits resulting from these activities go back to the projects in which the workers are involved, as well as to other local non-profits associations involved in supporting social issues.
Why do Sustainable Farming volunteering in Rome with IVHQ?
When you volunteer on the Sustainable Farming project in Rome you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Using sustainable methods to support communities
- Practicing your Italian
- Developing your communication skills
- Learning new practical skills
- Gaining agriculture and horticulture experience
- Immersing yourself in Italian culture
- Exploring the beauty of Italy’s charming capital city
Volunteer requirements
- Volunteers need to be 18 years or over to participate in this program. If you are under the age of 18, IVHQ offers alternative volunteer opportunities for teens. Visit our High School Volunteer Abroad page to learn more
- All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance
- All volunteers must speak fluent English.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
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IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
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IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
KP
Kruti Parekh
22 Oct 2024
...
AH
Aya Hagiwara
19 Sep 2024
At first, I was worried about going to a foreign country alone and working with people I have never met before for a few weeks. But once I met the local volunteer community and other volunteers, I felt that they are so friendly and supportive, so there was basically nothing to worry about.
...
JV
Jessica Vega
21 Aug 2024
Working on my project was absolutely incredible, the supervisors on the farm project were absolutely amazing. I feel that every moment working on that farm was meaningful, and an impact was made to support their mission. The accommodation was absolutely amazing. One of the best ones I’ve stayed at volunteering abroad.
...
YG
Yod Gebre
31 Oct 2023
The guidance and preparation resources from IVHQ were great, as well as the support from the local team. I got to see firsthand how sustainable farming can benefit both the environment and local communities. It's gratifying to know that my efforts contribute to a more eco-friendly and socially responsible approach to farming. I gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of sustainable farming and its positive impact on the environment and communities.
Volunteering in this program equipped me with practical eco-friendly farming skills, including organic techniques and resource conservation, while offering a fulfilling opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future.
As for someone hesitant about joining this program, I would advise them to consider the personal growth and learning opportunities it offers. This program not only imparts valuable skills, but also cultivates environmental awareness and a profound sense of purpose. It fosters a supportive community among sustainability enthusiasts. I encourage anyone with hesitations to embrace this deeply rewarding experience.
...
GJ
Grace Johnston
04 Apr 2023
This will be the greatest leap of faith you ever take and reward you endlessly! The guidance and preparation resources were well-prepared and easily accessible! The local team members were the most amazing supporters that any group could have had. They always made sure everyone knew important information about their placements, different language skills, tips for public transport, and local destinations to see. They also reminded us of the importance of positive change on our journey and that made me feel like I made an impact.
On my placement, the local staff showed me all of the beehives and made me feel so safe while teaching me a lot, even though we had a language barrier, it was magical.
It was so amazing to make friends from all over the world and experience Rome's diversity and beauty while working on a project where I learned so many new skills about agriculture. I was able to have a unique experience for myself, while also sharing this very important moment with others.
...
AW
Alexandra Watson
01 Jun 2022
The whole experience was amazing! The people I met, the work we did, and the places we saw. My favorite memory was our first 'sharing circle' as I got to hear about other people's placements and meet new people that feel the same as me about giving back to the community.
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
Rome is and has been many things - the capital of Italy, the Eternal City and the center of the ancient Roman empire. It is both brimming with reminders of bygone eras and teeming with dynamic, modern industry and entertainment. It’s also the setting of IVHQ’s Italy - Rome program, and volunteer placements are located throughout the wider city area.
Like any major city, there is a socio-economic divide in Rome and the people who fall on the disadvantaged side of this face a host of challenges. Volunteers can help make a difference to their lives by providing essential support to local initiatives designed to address these issues and others that affect the community.
Volunteers on this project should expect commutes of up to two hours one way from the accommodation to their placement, via public transportation. These long commute times are a result of Rome’s transportation system that almost always have long delays, ongoing repairs, and unpredictable schedules. Those who wish to join the Sustainable Farming project will usually have a longer commute than those on projects such as Youth Support and Teaching English, as this project is in the countryside on the outskirts of the city.
Arrival and orientation
The program orientation in Rome begins on the second and fourth Monday of each month and lasts for a full day. Volunteers need to arrive in Rome on the Sunday before orientation.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO). You can also arrive into Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (CIA) but should expect you may need to wait to be picked up. Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and taken to the volunteer accommodation in Rome. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.
If you are traveling in Italy prior to your volunteer program and arriving overland, we can arrange for you to be picked up from a central meeting point in Rome on the Sunday before orientation.
Orientation is hosted by our Italy team in Rome. It begins the morning of your chosen start date and lasts for a full day. The orientation covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Rome – an introduction to Italy, culture and customs, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities, and a tour of the local area. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers with whom you can swap contact details for weekend travel and socializing.
Your specific placement orientation will be held the following day and you will be shown how to travel to and from your placement, receive an introduction to your placement, and then complete a few hours of volunteering.
Volunteer schedule example
Weekdays
After your program orientation, you will have a morning or afternoon volunteer shift at your placement and will work for approximately 3 to 5 hours per day. Your schedule will vary depending on the needs of your particular project. A typical schedule is as follows:
| 7.30 AM | Breakfast begins at the volunteer accommodation and is available until 10.30 AM. |
| 8.00 AM | Travel to your volunteer placement to join local placement staff and begin work on your project. Please note that some placements run in the afternoon and volunteers on these placements will have the morning free to use as they wish. |
| 12.00 - 1:00 PM | Lunch break. Buy your own lunch from Rome’s many excellent cafes and eateries. After lunch, volunteers will continue volunteer work (where applicable). |
| 1.00 PM | Volunteers with afternoon or evening shifts travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on their project. |
| 6.30 - 10:30 PM | Dinner at the volunteer accommodation. After dinner, you will have the remainder of the evening free to relax and use as you wish. |
Weekends
On weekends, you can spend your free time discovering why Rome is one of the most popular and revered tourist destinations in the world. For a start, you can visit monuments to ancient history like the Colosseum, check out Vatican City, see Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, explore the Pantheon and throw coins into the Trevi Fountain.
Once you’ve ticked off those iconic experiences you can relax and find out which of the rest of Rome’s numerous attractions you’ll see next. It might be any one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, the perfect authentic carbonara or a steaming cup of espresso, touring ancient churches, checking out the nightlife of buzzy Trastevere or stumbling upon the latest in fashion on one of Rome’s best shopping streets, Via del Corso.
If you’re ready for a change of scene, you can take a quick weekend train trip to see the ancient ruins of Pompeii, or Naples - the home of pizza. Nature lovers should also factor in a visit to the beautiful Amalfi Coast to complete the precipitous and spectacular Walk of the Gods. Volunteers staying for longer durations, or who wish to travel before or after their program, can visit areas further afield in Italy, including Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence, Milan, Pisa and much more. You can make travel arrangements once you arrive in Rome with the advice and guidance of our expert local team.
Accommodation and WiFi
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Rome while staying in a freshly renovated, modern hostel right in the city circle. The dormitory-style accommodations offer a welcoming and social atmosphere, where you’ll share a room with up to three individuals of the same gender.
You’ll enjoy all the comforts of home, including WiFi, air conditioning, bedding, towels, and a private western-style bathroom for each bedroom. The accommodation is cleaned throughout the week, we encourage volunteers to keep their rooms tidy.
The hostel features three outdoor terrace areas, a vibrant communal lounge, and a fully equipped common kitchen.
Private room upgrades in various arrangements are available for an additional cost, subject to availability.
Meals
As a volunteer in Rome, you’ll receive three meals a day, so you can focus on making a difference while experiencing authentic Italian cuisine.
Breakfast at a charming local café, a baked cornetto (Italian croissant) and a classic cappuccino.
Lunch and dinner are both served at a nearby authentic Italian restaurant, featuring traditional dishes such as pasta, seasonal vegetables, and fresh salads.
Rome’s tap water is safe to drink, and the accommodation has a common kitchen where you can refill your reusable bottle. If you prefer bottled water, it’s widely available, and you can budget around $10 (approximately $10) per week for this.
Accommodation outdoor social area
Typical volunteer dining area
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Volunteer accommodation
Volunteer accommodation
Volunteer accommodation
Volunteer outdoor swimming pool
Volunteer dining room
Volunteer dining room
Volunteer dining room
Volunteer dining room
Accommodation outdoor social area
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately $299), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately $299) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | $1,645 Equivalent to $118/day |
| 3 weeks | $2,315 Equivalent to $110/day |
| 4 weeks | $2,985 Equivalent to $107/day |
| 5 weeks | $3,655 Equivalent to $104/day |
| 6 weeks | $4,325 Equivalent to $103/day |
| 8 weeks | $5,665 Equivalent to $101/day |
| 10 weeks | $7,005 Equivalent to $100/day |
| 12 weeks | $8,345 Equivalent to $99/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately $299) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Rome generally find US$150 to be sufficient for weekly expenses, transport and miscellaneous spending.
- Any changes or cancellations within 14 days of your start date are subject to a US$200 late change/cancellation fee.
- Breakfast and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country emergency support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Comprehensive in-country day to day support and guidance
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Rome
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Rome program.
Italian Flavors Unplugged - Peak
Experience the heart of Roman cuisine with our hands-on cooking class. Craft authentic pasta and sauces, then savor your creations for an unforgettable taste of Italy!
$107
Airport Drop-off (06:00 - 22:00)
Relax and enjoy a hassle-free transfer from your accommodation to the airport, expertly arranged by our local team.
$87
Airport Pick-up (06:00 - 22:00)
Arriving outside our scheduled airport pick-up times? Reserve this add-on today!
$87
Check what's required to visit Italy
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Rome |
| Population | 61.7 Million |
| Languages | Italian |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00 |
Weather and climate
Italy’s climate is quite diverse due to its long peninsula and mountainous terrain. The coastal areas of Liguria, Tuscany and most of the South are predominantly Mediterranean with dry summers and moderately wet winters. In the northern parts of Italy and areas of higher altitudes, the climate is cooler and the winter months can be cold, wet, and often snowy. Weather in Rome, where the IVHQ volunteer program is based, is pleasant throughout the year. Winter temperatures in Rome (December to February) vary from 4°C/39°F to 14°C/57°F while spring (March to May) is slightly warmer at around 15°C/59°F. Summer (June to September) in Rome can become very hot and humid with average temperatures ranging between 18°C/64°F and 31°C/89°F. Rainfall is heaviest in November and driest in July.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
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