Learn about eco-building in a Greek Island [ESC opportunity]

Σταγόνες / Stagones Social Cooperative is based near Kirinthos on Evia Island, Greece. The community brings together several families with young children who want to “live lightly and meaningfully on earth”. They work with natural building, organic farming and democratic education, and host volunteers who would like to learn by doing in a rural environment close to nature.

Eco-building ESC project (past call)

As part of the European Solidarity Corps, Stagones planned to host four young people, ages 18–30, for 6 months, from late March to late November 2020. The range of activities included:

• Natural building
• Organic and natural farming
• Permaculture in a broad, practical sense

Volunteers needed to be comfortable around young children and interested in democratic, self-directed education. Life was simple and rural, in a remote place, with learning mainly through hands-on projects and everyday activities.

About Stagones Social Cooperative

Stagones started as an informal group of young people and later became a social cooperative. Today four families with small children live and work in a natural environment on Evia Island.

Their aims include the promotion of:

• a healthy way of life
• sustainable everyday practices
• protection of the environment
• democratic education

Main areas of activity

1. Natural and organic farming. They grow much of their own food and cultivate vegetables and pomegranates for the local and wider market. Income supports the goals of the cooperative.
2. Natural building. They design and build eco-friendly constructions such as small houses, earth ovens, benches, fireplaces and kiosks, and run workshops for people who want to learn through practice.
3. Cultural and creative exchange. They organise small projects and art events with the local community, including small festivals.
4. Transformation of education. They promote democratic education and Agile Learning through workshops and information days.

In all activities, people learn through non-formal education, mainly experiential learning. Everyday life is approached in a holistic way, connecting food, shelter, community and education.

Location

Greece | Kirinthos, Evia Island

European Solidarity Corps Quality Label

This organisation holds a European Solidarity Corps Quality Label, which confirms that it can host ESC volunteers according to programme principles. New ESC calls are published through partner organisations and the official channels.

Non-ESC volunteers

Stagones can also host non-ESC volunteers who join the daily activities, which change with the seasons. Volunteers usually help for about five hours per day. There is a three-day trial period, after which the group discusses a possible extension of the stay.

They offer food and space to set up tents, plus the chance to share experiences and knowledge with the community. Life is simple, outdoors and close to nature.

Outdated listing warning

Contact details 🔍📧