Penáguila's Town Hall

"Escoleta Penáguila: Kids, English and Elders" is a community-centered initiative where a team of 6–7 international volunteers will actively support the rural municipality of Penáguila by bridging different generations.

During the mornings, the main responsibility of the volunteer team will be running the local summer school (Escoleta) for approximately 15 local children. In this shift, volunteers will design and implement non-formal educational activities, interactive games, sports, and creative workshops entirely in English to promote language acquisition and intercultural awareness in a fun environment.

During some afternoons, the project focuses on social inclusion and intergenerational solidarity through visits to the local elderly care home. In these sessions, the team will provide companionship, facilitate soft-mobility dynamics, and organize shared activities to connect the youth with the senior residents of the village.

Additionally, as this is a rural community project, participants must maintain a highly flexible attitude and be fully open to helping with any other community support tasks that may arise. This includes collaborating with the local town hall, supporting small municipal events, or assisting in environmental and logistical activities to improve the well-being of Penáguila and its inhabitants.

Volunteers will stay in a basic apartment with bunk beds, a kitchen, and bathrooms. The apartment also has free access to the local pool for relaxing during free time.

Food will be provided by De Amicitia. Volunteers will have the opportunity to cook together with the campleaders, creating meals as a team.

Tucked away in the heart of the Alicante mountains, Penàguila is a small but enchanting village that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and tranquility. Surrounded by olive trees, almond groves, and pine forests, it provides an ideal setting for volunteers looking to disconnect from the fast-paced city life and immerse themselves in authentic rural Spain.

Penàguila is known for its rich historical heritage, featuring a charming old town with narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, and remnants of medieval walls. It’s a peaceful and welcoming community where locals live at a slower pace, and nature is just a few steps away.

One of the highlights of the village is the Jardín de Santos, a 19th-century botanical garden that once flourished with exotic species and romantic pathways. Although partially damaged by a recent fire, it remains a symbol of local pride and will be the focus of restoration during the volunteer project.

For leisure, volunteers can enjoy:

Nature walks and hiking through the Phytoclimatic Route, which connects the village to the botanical garden and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley.

Cultural visits to the local museum, which showcases the village's agricultural and historical past.

A trip to the nearby Safari Aitana, a drive-through animal park with giraffes, elephants, and lions.

Weekly intergenerational visits to the local senior center, promoting cultural exchange and community bonding.

Volunteers will find Penàguila to be a place where they can connect with nature, engage with the local community, and contribute to a meaningful environmental project—all while enjoying the serene beauty and simple joys of rural Mediterranean life.