Explore volunteer opportunities that focus on fostering self-sufficiency through education, hands-on experience, and community engagement

What is self-sufficiency?

The philosophy and concept of self sufficiency refers to the state of individuals, homes, cities, mechanisms, societies, industrial systems, and nations that are able to meet their own needs without relying on external aid, support, or interactions of a commercial or diplomatic nature. This is done with the goal of ensuring a consistent level of well-being that is not dependent on external factors. It represents a form of personal or collective autonomy.

Can a community become self-sufficient?

Yes, a community can definitely try to become more self-sufficient. That means they try to produce or provide for most of their own needs without relying on outside sources. Think growing their own food, generating their own energy, creating their own businesses and industries, and providing their own services like education and healthcare. However it’s very hard to achieve, since there will always be some things that they can’t get locally and need to import. And self-sufficiency can also be defined by social, economic, and environmental sustainability, which means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

How does this page work?

The volunteer projects listed on this page offer travellers the opportunity to stay on farms or eco-centres where they can learn and practice the philosophy of self-sufficiency. Be sure to read the descriptions carefully before contacting the hosts. To contact the hosts, look for the “contact” section at the end of each listing. Happy travels!

Volunteer opportunities related to Self-sufficiency  🥕

This page offers a selection of articles related to self-sufficiency, but more may be available by clicking on “older posts.” If you would like to submit an article or volunteer opportunity related to self-sufficiency, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us! 📧 ✍️😊