Experience community living in São Francisco da Serra, Portugal

Details

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  Description

  Hi lovely people,
  
  Are you passionate about sustainable living and eager to make a difference in the lives of children? Malama, an off-grid community nestled in the Alentejo, Portugal’s serene heartland, is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to engage with our vibrant group of kids aged 5 to 10.
  
  As a Malama Volunteer, You Will:
  
  Lead fun, educational activities that inspire creativity and learning.
  Spend your days in a supportive environment surrounded by nature.
  Help foster a sense of community and shared responsibility among our young ones.
  
  We’re Looking for Individuals or Couples Who:
  
  Have a genuine love for working with children.
  Are interested in off-grid living and sustainable practices.
  Can commit to a minimum of 2 weeks with us.
  
  Benefits Include:
  
  A unique opportunity to live and work in a thriving off-grid community.
  The chance to learn about sustainable living firsthand.
  The joy of making a lasting impact on children’s lives.
  
  As a token of our gratitude for your dedication and work, we are delighted to offer our volunteers three wholesome meals a day, lovingly prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Plus, you’ll have the pleasure of resting each night in a cozy bed within our charming caravan, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature.
  
  Lots of Love, looking forward meeting you!
  
  
  ****************
  
  Some of reviews in this profile date back to the time we, Jasper & Steph (now living in Malama), had our project in Spain, a little bit about us:
  
  We (Jasper & Steph) decided to look for something positive in 2012 because we were a sick of all the negativity around us. So we made a trip through the South of Europe. Visiting all kinds of places where people live in an alternative, off-grid and permaculture way. During this trip we've made short films about inspiring people who showed us their little paradises. At the end of the trip we stumbled upon a beautiful piece of land in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
  But that place is history and we are now creating a new spot again in Portugal.
  
  We love natural building! We are specialised in bread/pizza clay oven.

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  Types of help and learning opportunities

  Art Projects

  Language practice

  Help with Eco Projects

  Teaching

  Gardening

  DIY and building projects

  Farmstay help

  Babysitting and creative play

  Creating/ Cooking family meals

  General Maintenance
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  Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

  This is your chance to take a look in a beautiful hidden gem of a community in Alentejo.
  
  The Malama community in Portugal is a unique retreat that offers a chance to reconnect with nature and one’s true inner self. It’s a place designed for individuals to take a break from society, slow down, reflect, and renew. The community is situated on a 7.7-hectare plot of land in the Alentejo region.
  
  Malama is more than just a retreat; it’s a living, breathing community where people come together to share experiences, skills, and freedom. The community values the idea of living in harmony with nature, growing their own vegetables, and creating an eco-friendly living space. They have built their home with earth, clay, and sand, mainly using materials from their land, and have installed their own water and electricity systems.
  
  The community is also a place for families and children, offering activities like dancing, sports, theatre, and games. We organize brunches on Sundays, singing circles, yoga, sound baths, and construction projects. There’s a weekly gardening day and walks with horses, emphasizing the importance of animal and nature in their lifestyle.
  
  Malama is a testament to the power of dreams and the courage to live them. It stands as an example of self-empowerment and the fulfillment that comes from creating a life in tune with one’s values and the environment.
  
  For those interested in experiencing this unique way of life, Malama offers family camps where you can slow down, relax, and enjoy quality time with your loved ones while connecting with nature and the wider community.
  
  If you’re drawn to the idea of sustainable living and community life, Malama could be a wonderful place to visit and learn from. It’s a place where every day is new, filled with learning, growth, and the joy of living closely with nature.

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  Projects involving children

  This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.

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  Help

  At this moment we are specially looking for volunteers that can do activities with all the kids in the community. Mainly for the kids from the age range 5 till 10.
  
  For example:
  
  Art Classes:
  Unleash your creativity by leading art sessions. Teach painting, drawing, and other crafts to inspire the kids’ imaginations.
  
  Building and Construction:
  Get hands-on with building projects! Help construct eco-friendly structures, treehouses, or garden beds using sustainable materials.
  
  Workshops:
  Organize workshops on topics like permaculture, renewable energy, or natural building techniques. Share your knowledge with the community.
  
  Creative Classes:
  Think outside the box! Conduct classes in music, dance, theater, or storytelling. Encourage self-expression and exploration.
  
  Excursions:
  Take the kids on educational outings. Visit nearby farms, explore local ecosystems, or learn about wildlife conservation.
  
  Beach Trips: Enjoy the beautiful Portuguese coastline! Plan beach days where the kids can play, swim, and learn about marine life.
  
  Remember, your contributions will not only benefit the children but also contribute to the sustainable lifestyle of the Malama community. 🌿🌟
  
  Feel free to customize these activities based on your interests and expertise. We look forward to having you join us! 🌻

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  Languages

  Languages spoken
  German: Fluent
  English: Fluent
  French: Fluent
  Dutch: Fluent
  Spanish: Intermediate
  Portuguese: Beginner

  This host offers a language exchange
  This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
  You can contact them directly for more information.
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  Accommodation

  Caravan or tent with proper mattress

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  What else ...

  The beach is close at about a 25 min drive! Nearest town in Santiago do Cacem.

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  A little more information

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    Internet access

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    Limited internet access

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    We have pets

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    We are smokers

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    Can host families

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  Can host digital nomads

  There is a communal space with a steady internet connection

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  Space for parking camper vans

  There are many spots to park on the community land, but there is also an option for a caravan or tent.

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  Can possibly accept pets

  There are several dogs and cats in the community, so the little friends have to fit in and/or looked after

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  How many Workawayers can stay?

  Two

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  Hours expected

  Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week

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