Volunteering in France takes place at La Giraudière in Brossac. Shirley Lehmann took the opportunity to experience life as a local in the French countryside. During three weeks she worked as an international volunteer. Erasmus volunteers join international volunteers to provide a cultural exchange. People of varying ages, nationalities and life experiences unite. For Shirley, a retired Australian educator, La Giraudière was a perfect fit.
Shirley had a chance to be outdoors weeding, raking, and sweeping. In addition, she took on many household management jobs. Weekly, Shirley improved her French and took turns cooking for the group. She often enjoyed visiting in the area and further afield during her off time. She found the mix of physical work, chances to explore the village and the group camaraderie was quite pleasant.
Shirley rated the excursions and the French lessons 10 out of 10! She took trips to beautiful Bordeaux and Saintes with the group. She and another volunteer explored Aubeterre. Shirley shopped in different towns, walked around the Blue Lagoon and ate dinner at local restaurants. These all added to her enjoyment. Individualized French lessons allowed Shirley to proceed at her own pace. She feels the experience of volunteering at La Giraudière met all her expectations.
What would Shirley say to others interested in volunteering? If you are looking to stay in France in a rural environment, work with others and improve your French, La Giraudière is the place to come. She stated, “In a nutshell, it’s what YOU make of all these opportunities.
Like to know more about cultural exchange in France at La Giraudière? Read more about this in a previous blog post.
Or you are interested in volunteering in France at La Giraudière? Then visit our website at Volunteer in France.
