Volunteering holidays offer a unique opportunity to contribute to a cause while gaining new skills and experiences. One such experience took place at the Othona Community near Bridport, Dorset, where I learned stone masonry in exchange for my time. I arrived with little knowledge of the craft, but by the end of the day, I was confidently mixing concrete and working with trowels and hawks to lay stone window seals. This was just one of the many skills I picked up during my time at Othona, a place that offers retreats and working holidays focused on simple living and spirituality.
Othona is nestled in the woodlands above Chesil Beach, and during my stay, I joined a group of volunteers working on various projects. People from different backgrounds come together to contribute their time, whether it’s making curtains, laying turf, or creating compost bins. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose is palpable, and as the days go by, friendships blossom, and personal growth flourishes. While some volunteers focus on practical tasks, others engage in creative pursuits or contribute their culinary talents, such as baking the best Dorset apple cake after a day’s work.
The experience is not just about giving; it’s about receiving. Each volunteer, whether experienced or a novice, is valued for their contribution. For me, the chance to learn stone masonry was invaluable, especially since I had recently bought an old house and wanted to gain practical skills for its restoration. With the guidance of a skilled builder and a fellow volunteer who was a building surveyor, I quickly learned the basics of the craft.
Over the years, I have returned to Othona multiple times, often questioning why I would spend my weekends helping others when my own home and garden require attention. Yet, each time, I leave feeling enriched, having gained far more than I gave. Volunteering is a way to reconnect with a sense of purpose and community, offering both personal fulfillment and the opportunity to contribute to something greater than oneself.
Volunteering holidays, like those at Othona, are becoming rarer. In the past, I participated in working holidays with organizations such as The Conservation Volunteers (TCV) and the National Trust, but these opportunities have dwindled due to financial constraints and the impact of the Covid pandemic. Today, it requires more effort to find affordable volunteering experiences. However, some organizations, like Othona, still work hard to keep costs low, offering discounts on accommodation and food, as well as bursaries to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Other organizations also offer similar opportunities. The RSPB, for example, provides residential volunteer breaks at nature reserves, while the Mountain Bothies Association organizes work parties to maintain shelters for hillwalkers. Through these experiences, I have learned a wide range of life skills, from baking bread to pruning apple trees, and gained confidence in my abilities.
Volunteering abroad with organizations like Workaway has also been transformative. I have had the chance to live and work in various countries, from teaching in Arctic schools to building earthships in Florida. These experiences have allowed me to immerse myself in local cultures and gain a deeper understanding of the world beyond tourism. Volunteering is not just about the tasks you perform; it’s about the relationships you build and the sense of belonging you create within a community.
Volunteering also has personal benefits. Studies show that those who volunteer report higher life satisfaction and fewer symptoms of depression. The act of giving, whether it’s your time, skills, or energy, has a profound effect on your own well-being. By focusing on the needs of others, many of my own worries have faded into the background.
Volunteering holidays are not for everyone. They are not about relaxation or luxury. They require hard work and a willingness to get your hands dirty. However, the rewards are immense, from the skills you learn to the connections you make. It’s an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone, contribute to a cause you care about, and experience the world in a way that few other activities allow.
