An animal protection association on the Greek island of Syros is recruiting volunteers for the local cat sanctuary. In exchange for five hours of work a day, five days a week, participants receive accommodation, breakfast and basic expenses included, in an initiative aimed at fit, mature, healthy and independent people.
The proposal does not involve draws or complex selection processes, but requires attention to dates and availability for defined times, in an experience that combines holidays in a Mediterranean destination with structured volunteer work.
Who can apply
According to Syros Cats, the organization responsible for the project, volunteering is aimed at people capable of taking on physical tasks and daily responsibilities without constant monitoring. The same source adds that interested parties must be available for a minimum stay of one month, complying with the daily routine established by the sanctuary.
The work involves cleaning spaces, distributing food and water, observing the animals’ health status and supporting cats that require veterinary care.
An important part of the routine involves the socialization of rescued offspring, including frequent contact with humans, known as kitten cuddlingwith the aim of facilitating future adoptions.
Syros Cats has been active since the 1990s and is described as a pioneer in the organized response to the cat problem on the island, through capture, sterilization and return programs, known as TNR.
The Greek Reporter newspaper writes that this work is developed in conjunction with another local structure, God’s Little People Cat Rescue, as part of a broader population control and animal welfare effort.
Benefits and objectives
“We want to show the world that animals matter,” said Richard Bowell, co-founder of the organization, quoted by Greek Reporter, highlighting that the project seeks to create a lasting impact on the community’s relationship with the island’s cats.
The same source states that veterinary monitoring, regular feeding and local awareness are part of an ongoing strategy, which goes beyond the summer months.
According to the same source, applications for next summer are already closed, but the organization plans to reopen the process in the autumn, with a view to volunteering in 2027. Those interested are advised to follow the official Syros Cats website or subscribe to the newsletter to receive updates on dates, requirements and availability, explains the organization’s website.
According to , this is not a conventional vacation opportunity, as it requires a daily commitment, although it offers accommodation, breakfast and basic expenses included for those who meet the defined criteria.
The publication adds that the experience is being promoted as an alternative way to spend the summer, combining travel, volunteering and close contact with cats, with no accommodation costs for the volunteers.
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