Why Volunteering Matters: How Helping Cats in Greece Can Change Lives - Including Yours
- Aerial Design and Build
- Jul 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 1
At Let’s be S.M.A.R.T., we believe every act of kindness creates a ripple effect.
Our Global Volunteer Program is proof that when people from around the world come together to care for animals, the impact goes far beyond just one sanctuary or one cat - it touches lives across continents.
Whether you’re a student on a gap year, a professional seeking purpose, or a passionate animal lover ready for a new adventure, volunteering with us offers an experience like no other.
What Is the Global Volunteer Program?
Our sanctuary near Athens, Greece, welcomes volunteers from all over the world to help with daily care, enrichment, and wellness of our rescued cats.
What volunteers do:
Feed and clean for over 80+ cats in our peaceful, cage-free shelter and help with the care of our 5 dogs
Socialize cats to prepare them for adoption
Assist with medical treatments, grooming, and sanctuary upkeep
Support creative projects like enrichment toys, art, and photography
Help with social media, events, and educational outreach
In return, volunteers gain practical animal care experience, make lifelong connections, and explore the beauty of Greece in their free time.
Why It Matters - For the Cats
Many of the cats we rescue have faced abandonment, injury, or severe neglect. They come to our shelter scared, sick, or unsocialized. Volunteers play a critical role in their recovery.
Your daily presence brings:
Comfort and routine that helps them feel safe
Gentle human interaction to rebuild trust
Enrichment and play that supports emotional healing
Hands-on preparation for forever homes
Every cuddle, every cleaned bowl, every moment of patience counts. Without our volunteers, these cats wouldn’t thrive the way they do.
Why It Matters - For You
Volunteering isn’t just about giving - it’s about growing.Whether you stay for a week or several months, our program gives you the chance to:
Develop skills in animal care, teamwork, and communication
Gain insight into rescue work, rehabilitation, and nonprofit operations
Disconnect from daily stress and reconnect with purpose
Form meaningful bonds with animals and fellow volunteers
Immerse yourself in Greek culture and natural beauty
Many of our past volunteers describe their experience as life-changing. For some, it's a turning point. For others, it's simply the most fulfilling part of their travels.
Who Can Volunteer?
We’re looking for caring, patient, and dedicated individuals who share our love for animals! To ensure the best care for our furry friends, we ask that volunteers have some prior experience with animal care - whether through volunteering, pet ownership, or similar roles.
If you have the passion and a bit of experience, we’d love to have you on our team!
We welcome:
Solo travelers and gap year students
Retirees, sabbatical-takers, and career changers
Vet students, aspiring rescuers, and animal advocates
Travelers who want to give back while they explore Greece
Where Are We?
Our sanctuary is just 15 minutes from Athens International Airport, in a peaceful countryside setting. Volunteers stay at our sanctuary, enjoy local culture, and participate in activities to explore Greece’s beaches, islands, and historic sites.
Ready to Make a Difference?Join our Global Volunteer Program and help transform lives — feline and human.
📩 Reach out today: www.letsbesmart-greece.org/volunteer-program
📸 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see our volunteers in action.
🌍 Visit our website to read real stories from past volunteers - and maybe even plan your own journey to Greece with a purpose.
Because every cat deserves a second chance - and every person deserves a meaningful experience.
Let’s be the change - let’s be S.M.A.R.T.
Adopt today - and be part of something extraordinary.
When you adopt from Let’s be S.M.A.R.T., you’re not just saving a life. You’re gaining a friend, supporting ethical rescue, and making room for more cats in need.
Follow us on social media for daily updates, adoption stories, and volunteer highlights!
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