How do I know if I’m eligible for the ESC?

You need EU residency in any EU country except for Spain (as it’s a project for people from abroad), and you need to be between 18 and 30 years old the day you start the volunteer programme with us. That’s means that it’s OK if you turn 31 the day after you start the volunteer programme with us, or if you turn 18 years old the day before you start the volunteer programme with us. You also need to be able to follow a conversation in English and be physically fit to be able to hike for up to 4 hours in one day, 

How do I apply to volunteer in EB Montseny?

Fill this questionnaire and send your CV and cover letter to carles.dura@ornitologia.org

How does the process of applying work?

The process has two phases, the first one is based on your CV, cover letter and form. The second one is based on a short interview.

Does ICO provide accommodation?

The volunteers live in the Fontmartina building, located inside Montseny Natural Park. The house is a typical mountain building that meets the necessary requirements, with 3 showers and 4 toilets, shared kitchen and dining room, all essential accessories, including basic furniture, living room and two shared bedrooms. WiFi is free but poor. The area is quite isolated, surrounded by forest and 25 min away by car from the nearest big city (Sant Celoni). Public transport negligible, but we offer a car to share. Shopping and cooking is done all together, vegans/vegetarians welcome.

Does ICO cover the travel costs?

We cover some travel cost depending on the distance between your place and EB Montseny, and also depends on if you came using green travel or not. The distance in a straight line is calculated using this official ESC website where the start point is your address and the end point is Fogars de Montclús, Vallès Oriental, Catalonia, Spain. The amount we can cover is described in the following table. Anything above this cost will have to be covered by the volunteer.

What is considered green travel?

Only when the main transport between your address and EB Montseny has been done by bus, train, or sharing a car.

I don’t know much Spanish, is it a problem?

No, the only required language to participate is English. Most volunteers don’t know Spanish neither, and here is not the best place to learn Spanish, as the area is isolated and the dominant language of the local people is Catalan. However, if you know some Spanish, it will be useful for you when you go socializing or shopping, as Spanish is widely understood.

I don’t know much English, is it a problem?

No, although it’s important that you have a level where you can hold a conversation in English, it’s not a problem if you are not an expert or if you don’t know the name of the birds in English. Your English level will improve throughout your stay in EB Montseny.

Do I get paid for participating in this volunteer opportunity?

Yes, you will receive a monthly stipend of 330€ at the end of each month.

Do I need to get an insurance?

The program is covered by Henner, and it covers pretty much everything, however, if you feel more comfortable having your own insurance, feel free to get one.