🇬🇷 ESC Volunteering in Greece 🐦 Urban Birdlife Photography and Community Action 📸

Description

Thessaloniki Birdscape is a European Solidarity Corps campaign exploring the relationship between birds, people and urban nature through photography, art and community action. Young people will discover the birdlife of Thessaloniki’s parks and public spaces, document it through photography and creative storytelling, and explore how birds inspire art and culture. The campaign will also raise awareness about responsible coexistence with urban wildlife, prevention and protection, including practical guidance on nesting, cleanliness and what to do when an injured bird is found. Through workshops, bird walks, creative activities and a public exhibition, participants will turn observation into action and encourage citizens to see the city from a different perspective. Developed with environmental and ornithological expertise, the project connects youth participation, creativity, biodiversity and solidarity, making urban nature more visible, valued and protected.

Accommodation, food and transport arrangements

The volunteers will be accommodated in a shared apartment & supported by a Social Mentor throughout their stay supporting volunteers with food supplies & preparation, as well as encouraging social interaction and integration. All accommodation will meet the required safety, hygiene & quality standards. Volunteers are expected to help maintain the apartment in the same condition in which it was provided, taking care of the facilities and ensuring that there are no damages or missing items. Monthly bus passes providing free domestic travel within the city of Thessaloniki will also be provided.

Training during the activity

The volunteers will be actively involved in activities designed to strengthen their skills in project development, implementation, and coordination. Working in teams, they will take responsibility for planning and delivering project activities while developing their communication, teamwork, initiative, and problem-solving skills. Participants will also have the opportunity to gain recognition of their learning and competences through digital badges. The programme will include practical first-aid training focused on appropriately supporting and responding to birds and other urban wildlife.

Participant profile

Participants’ profile and relevant skills:

Thessaloniki Birdscape is open to young people with a less opportunities profile and with an interest in nature, birds, photography, art, storytelling and community action. Previous experience in ornithology, photography or environmental projects is not required. We are particularly interested in participants who are curious, creative, observant and motivated to learn, explore urban biodiversity and communicate environmental messages in accessible and engaging ways. Basic digital and communication skills, teamwork, initiative and openness to intercultural cooperation will be useful. Participants should be willing to take part in bird walks, workshops, creative activities, public events and the final exhibition, and to contribute actively to raising awareness about responsible coexistence with urban wildlife. The project values motivation and willingness to learn over formal qualifications, ensuring that young people with different backgrounds and levels of experience can participate meaningfully.

Activity details

Activity type

Volunteering teams

Activity dates

From 01/12/2026 to 20/12/2026

Location

4-6, Eratosthenous Street, Anthokipoi Polichnis, Thessaloniki, Greece

Deadline

20/10/2026

Project code

2026-1-EL02-ESC51-VTJ-000402413

Topics

Looking for participants from

21 countries can apply. The activity takes place in 🇬🇷 Greece.