Volunteering Questions
Can Samos Volunteers accommodate my religious or cultural beliefs in its housing, operations and activities?
For logistical reasons, we try to adhere to the Greek calendar of festivities and holidays (e.g. we don’t work on Sundays). However, we do also tailor our activities and schedule in order to respect and acknowledge the religious orientation of all our service users from the camp community (e.g. Nowruz as well as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, or the month of Ramadan).
Important to note is that is not our policy to abide by any one specific religion or cultural tradition. In fact, at Samos Volunteers, we strive for inclusivity. We are more than glad to accommodate all obligations in regards to the religious and/or spiritual faith of our individual volunteers. We would be happy to hear about your needs as a volunteer – just let us know!
Do I need a car to get around?
Vathy is a small town and all of our working locations are within walking distance of the town centre. A car is therefore not a necessity.
Who do I contact about volunteering?
Please first read all the information on our website prior to completing the application form but, if you can't find the answers to your questions, feel free to email recruitment@samosvolunteers.org with any queries concerning your volunteering!
Volunteering with us is not formal employment and we therefore cannot offer documentation to support visas. Nor can we provide free accommodation. Please be reminded that none of our volunteer positions are paid.
Can I bring my children?
We do not accept minors under the age of 18 under any circumstances.
Where can I buy food, pharmacy items, SIM cards, etc.?
There are several supermarkets, phone providers, and pharmacies in and within walking distance of Vathy town centre.
Note: most shops and supermarkets are closed on Sundays, and most local shops and amenities close on weekday afternoons between 2pm and 6pm (except supermarkets).
Are credit cards accepted?
Credit cards are accepted pretty much everywhere, from little cafes to hotels. Though Greece used to be largely a cash economy, electronic payment is on the rise. Even small grocery stores are equipped to take credit cards. It still is a good idea to have some cash, especially when outside of Vathy. There are plenty of ATMs in the town centre allowing withdrawals of up to 500 euros a day, depending on your bank.
Will my phone work?
That depends. Being contactable at all times is essential for all volunteers, due to the unpredictability of our work. We advise that our volunteers get a Greek SIM card when they arrive, which means you need to ensure that your mobile phone is unlocked before you get here. Volunteers communicate via WhatsApp, so having an internet package is important.
Will the work be challenging?
At times, yes. The majority of people who arrive in Samos have experienced violent conflict and we need to be sensitive to this. While we are not here to provide any sort of medical, legal, or psychological support, we empower and support them through our work.
If you are ever upset or finding that things are overwhelming, the project coordinators are here to support you. If you need some time out, please tell us. It’s essential to inform us if you are finding it difficult to cope with the work.
Humanitarian volunteer work on Samos can be very mentally and emotionally challenging. If you ever need to talk to someone who is a professional, here are the options available:
SSUN exists to support people volunteering in European refugee camps. If you have been volunteering for more than a month, you would likely benefit from talking about and processing your experiences with someone who is outside of your immediate environment, but who can identify with what you have been experiencing. Get in touch and we can connect you with a 'peer buddy' who you can be in touch with regularly via phone, Skype or WhatsApp. You can also join their Facebook group, Solidarity and Support.
Georgina Lewis has set up a similar service via the Facebook group Refugee Trauma Support.
Is Samos safe?
Yes. Greece has virtually no violent or petty crime. However, it is possible that you could find yourself in a challenging situation during an SV activity. In this instance, exit the situation if it is safe to do so and immediately contact a Coordinator.
Where can I exercise?
Many volunteers enjoy hikes on different parts of the island on weekends. Walking, jogging and ocean swimming are other popular activities. There is a gym in Vathy that offers weights and cardio machines, Cross Fit and Zumba classes.
Do I need to bring my own bedding?
If you are staying in one of the Samos Volunteers houses, there is plenty of bedding and towels for you to use.