Worldpackers’ Ecological & Social Sustainability Award
Every year, your vote helps to decide how we distribute a $20,000 grant to projects that are really transforming the world.
The Award
This annual award is part of Worldpackers' long-standing commitment since its founding in 2014: to work collaboratively toward building a resilient, integrated world where people’s needs are met and the environment can thrive.
Every year, the Worldpackers community comes together to vote for the 10 projects most recognized for their social and environmental impact, which will receive our $20,000 donation, divided among them:
1st placeUS$5,000
2nd placeUS$4,000
3rd placeUS$3,000
4th placeUS$2,000
5th to 10th placesUS$ 1,000
Winners of the 3rd edition • 2026
Check out the award-winning projects, chosen by the Worldpackers community.
EcoPortugal
Animal Rescue Algarve
1st place
256 SDG reviews
We are a NGO formed to help abandoned and mistreated animals in the Algarve, South of Portugal.
Our kennels are beautiful little wooden houses, fully insulated, where we pair 2 dogs maximum in each kennel so they have a peaceful place to chill and sleep. All our dogs go for walks and have fun time at our parks every day.
If we could dream big, we would love is to change the mentality of the people about animal welfare. First, about cruelty and neglect. In 2026, we still receive daily help request about animals in terrible conditions, chained, mistreated, and this should not exist anymore. Second, we would like to change the mentality about the neutering. Most of the people don't sterilize their animals, and this is the biggest issue around the world. Each year, more and more kittens and puppies are dumped alive in trash, in plastic bags on the side of the road. And this will not change as long as the mentality doesn't change. And finally, we would love to make sure that the animal welfare is part of the school education, to educate the new generations.
EcoGermany
Michaelshof Sammatz
2nd place
281 SDG reviews
Hello globetrotters, hello curious people of this world! You want to experience something new? Discover the world? Get to know yourself? Take on the challenge of 'life'? Then come join our team, we are a bunch of young (and also older) people who have a lot of fun living and working.
Michaelshof is an international community surrounded by nature in the beautiful Wendland. We are 250 people who create a life together that is good for people and nature. All our food is organically (-dynamically) grown and we place great value on nature and spirituality. We love to start new projects and in more than 37 years we have already set up many things: a Demeter farm, a bakery, a dairy, a medicinal plant manufactory, a farm store & an organic café, a children's and youth home, 6 hectares of gardens and parks, a construction site and much more.
And although we tend to be busy on the outside, it always comes down to people first and foremost: Find the value that only you have - & give it to the world! What value do you have?
Currently we need help in the areas of garden, construction site, children and youth home, kitchen and housework:
1. Our garden is a beautiful piece of nature, a perfect teacher. Grab your shovels with us and let's get to weeding, planting & pruning. Or go out to the vegetable field with us and take care of lettuce & co. for the community and people from the region! Organic. Regional. Fair.
2. We are currently building our colorful ‹Flachsenberg Settlement›, a housing project for our community that creates living space for potential community members. The team is international and good-humored and will show you how to build a house. Our specialty is drywall, but there's all kinds of more to learn, from brick to electrical, painting, insulation and more. Hands on!
3. Our Peronnik Children's and Youth Home is the heart of our community. Children from a wide variety of backgrounds find a new home here and (mostly) love living in a community. Do you feel like playing soccer with some kids, going to see the animals, playing diabolo, or just chatting? Come to team Peronnik!
4. Who’s hungry, let’s go the kitchen! Every day we cook lunch for over 200 people – in the summer a lot of vegetables come directly from the field. Be a part of it, clean, chop, season and eat! Also, Christian always needs help in our brand-new canning kitchen where we preserve vegetables.
5. Community doesn't work without cleaning and we love it nice & clean, so we spread that too, like much else, on everyone's shoulders, including yours!
If you have a skill that we can put to good use at Michaelshof, you can potentially contribute to Sammatz with your individual know-how as well.
There are few rules at Sammatz, an important one being: no alcohol or drugs on site. If you can't imagine this during your stay, please apply to another host.
We would like Michaelshof to be a living example that another way of life is possible: connected, peaceful and close to nature. In a world that often feels divided, we want to create a place where people from different countries, cultures and backgrounds meet with openness, work toward a common purpose and learn to trust one another. Our dream is that especially young people leave Michaelshof with courage, hope and the feeling that they can help shape the future. Ideally, they carry this experience into the world and create new places of community, sustainability and peace.
EcoCosta Rica
Finca Ganadito
3rd place
221 SDG reviews
Finca Ganadito is a social enterprise committed to sustainability, providing an eco-conscious living space and a versatile venue for retreats, rentals, and service-based learning. At its core lies an agro-ecological farm dedicated to regenerative agriculture, producing fresh food, improving soil quality, and increasing biodiversity. Outreach programs include sea turtle conservation, forestry reserve stewardship, and educational efforts to promote responsible tourism, food security and sustainable resource management.
The project is located in Punta Ganadito - a hidden secret corner of Drake Bay, off-the-beaten-track, with a stellar sunset beach, and surrounded by primary forest reserves, mangroves, sea turtle nesting beaches and waterfalls. The tourist town, Agujitas, is an hour's walk away along the beach or 20 minutes by car, and volunteers get plenty of opportunities to go there. On your free days you can explore round the surrounding foothills and beaches, plus there are local rural tours available and tours to the world-famous Corcovado National Park and the Caño Island marine reserve.
Guest accommodation is either in the purpose-built 12-bed 'Moon House', or in one of the premium 'Jungle Houses'. The Moon House includes hammocks and a bathroom block with compost toilets and showers. The Jungle Houses have private double rooms and shared dorms with single beds, hot water showers and private decks with hammocks. Other common areas include the ‘Long House’ which has an open-plan kitchen-diner, coffee and smoothie bar (Café Colibrí), and a souvenir shop. The brand-new multi-use platform, known as the 'Sun House', provides epic sunset views and a gorgeous space for yoga classes, workshops, ceremonies and parties. High-speed Starlink internet is available throughout the property.
Even though Drake Bay is a touristic area, we live and work with Ticos (Felipe, Rebe, Rob and most of the staff are Costa Rican nationals) and so volunteers will be immersed in a genuine rural Costa Rican lifestyle. The work activities we have developed for guests are focused on learning, science, sustainability and regenerative tourism. You will create regenerative farming inputs and soil, protect nature, generate data and increase biodiversity, so by participating in the program you will leave a positive footprint behind as a genuine ecotourist.
Finca Ganadito is a social enterprise committed to sustainability, providing an eco-conscious living space and a versatile venue for retreats, rentals, and service-based learning. We focus on regenerative farming, as well as monitoring and increasing the biodiversity in and around our farm. We're working together with our greater community to restore the sea turtle population of our beach, leading night patrols and collecting scientific data, and we work with the local school to show kids how they can grow their own organic food. Through farm-to-table meals and hands-on workshops — from making loofah sponges and soap from recycled materials to preparing fresh coconut milk — we invite guests to experience practical, sustainable living firsthand.
EcoFrance
Centre de Méditation Kadampa France
4th place
229 SDG reviews
A place of peace, commitment, and transformation — in the heart of the French countryside
Kadampa Meditation Centre France is a unique and inspiring place dedicated to inner peace, meditation, and the transmission of Buddhist wisdom. Thanks to the heartfelt support of volunteers from all over the world, the centre has been able to offer weekly themed retreats to a large public, as well as daily Buddhist teachings and meditation sessions in a warm and welcoming environment.
Over the past two years, we have proudly received two Worldpackers Awards, a reflection of the beautiful energy, dedication, and unforgettable experiences shared by this international volunteer community.
This year opens an exciting new chapter with new challenges: to renovate this beautiful historic Castle as well as developping spiritual activities!
Your help will be essential in keeping the centre running smoothly and supporting this meaningful vision. From helping in the restaurant, dishwashing, and cleaning, to outdoor work and maintenance, every contribution plays a valuable role.
Joining us means stepping into a dynamic, supportive, and international community of volunteers — both Buddhist and non-Buddhist — united by a shared wish to contribute, learn, and grow. You will not only gain practical experience and meet inspiring people from around the world, but also have the opportunity to reconnect with yourself, develop inner peace, and be part of something truly meaningful.
If you’re looking for more than just a volunteer experience — if you want to contribute to a project that makes a real difference while living a rich human and spiritual adventure — this is the place for you!
Why Volunteer With Us?
Volunteering at KMC France is not just about helping and bringing your positive energy - it’s about becoming part of a multicultural community engaged in a public service project, while discovering or deepening your understanding of Kadampa Buddhist teachings.
Travel With Purpose
Whether you are an experienced meditator or simply looking for a more meaningful way to travel, KMC France welcomes you as you are.
Here, volunteering becomes a deep human experience rooted in service, simplicity, shared living, and personal growth.
Join us and help sustain a place dedicated to peace - today and for future generations !
Our project is a bouddhiste retreat and volunteer center dedicated to inner peace, mindfulness and benefiting others. Throughout the year, we welcome volunteers and visitors from around the world to expérience meditation, respect and a more meaningful way of living. In a busy and often stressful world, we offer a space where people can step away to reconnect with their good heart and contribute to a positive and caring community. Volunteers help maintain and develop the place while sharing daily life based on kindness, respect and service to others. We believe everyone deserves a safe space to reflect, grow and cultivate peace within. Everyone is Welcome here, regardless of background, nationality or beliefs.
Social ImpactCambodia
Association of Cambodia Child First
5th place
87 SDG reviews
Want to do something that actually matters? Come teach at our school and help kids build a better future through education.
We're in a small village near Siem Reap, Cambodia. You'll get to live like a local, not just visit — sharing meals and picking up bits of daily Cambodian life. The school is just a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride from where you'll stay.
You won't just be a volunteer here — you'll be part of the family. Expect shared meals, local activities, and plenty of good memories.
If we were to receive funds from Worldpackers, our dream would be to create opportunities for our students to learn digital skills that will greatly improve their job prospects. Without these skills, they will struggle to access good jobs in an increasingly digital world. We aspire to purchase 20 new computers, which would allow us to provide free computer skills lessons to our students who are so eager to learn. Firstly, computers are essential for education. Students use them to research information, and improve their learning skills. Without basic computer knowledge, it is difficult to access modern education. Second, computer skills are very important for jobs and careers. Most workplaces require basic skills such as typing, using software, sending emails, and working online. Learning how to use computers helps students have better job opportunities in the future. Third, computers improve communication. People can connect through email, social media, and video calls, which is especially important in a globalized world. Finally, learning computer skills builds confidence and independence. Students can solve problems, find information by themselves, and become more prepared for modern life. This means their learning can continue to grow outside of our lessons.
EcoCosta Rica
Tortugas de Isla Damas
6th place
122 SDG reviews
Discover this beautifull and non turistic place.
Volunteers can enjoy quiet moments by themselves.
It's a good place to rest and take time for you.
During the season they are lot of turtle and you can be part of their protection.
See the baby turtle going in the sea is a unique moment.
Groups and families are welcome!
We want our project to change the world by helping at the same time, and as much as possible, marine life and turtles, but also all the community, on an economic way (taxis, tours, surf teacher...) thanks to the volunteers we manage attract on the island to help us. We also care a lot about people mind to change thanks to the project, to get more and more aware about the biodiversity conservation. We want our volunteers be part of our family and learn a lot about simple and slow life, in harmony with nature, so they can live more happy, feel better, and share this around them. In summary we want both protect the planet and animals, and make people feel more and more happy and healthy.
EcoItaly
Cascina Fraschina
7th place
114 SDG reviews
Welcome to our picturesque cascina, nestled in the countryside and managed by a passionate team of young farmers. Our farmhouse offers a unique opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic rural lifestyle and gain hands-on experience in sustainable farming.
Welcome to our picturesque Cascina, nestled in the countryside and managed by a passionate team of young farmers. Our farmhouse offers a unique opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic rural lifestyle and gain hands-on experience in sustainable farming.
EcoBrazil
Nazaré Uniluz
8th place
206 SDG reviews
Get to know our site and learn everything about the campus: https://nazareuniluz.org.br/
Nazaré Uniluz is a space for continuous learning that offers experiences, courses and meditative practices, promoting self-knowledge and the awakening of consciousness.
Learning happens by encouraging group living, the rediscovery of spiritual values in daily life, the connection with nature and volunteer work.
Located in the municipality of Nazaré Paulista and surrounded by the Atlantic Forest, the campus inspires us to realize that we are part of a single web of life. Being at Nazaré Uniluz means participating in an interactive and creative network of people who support each other and follow a steady rhythm of activities, in the multiple forms of learning: studies on diverse topics and meditation practice, group leadership and shared leadership and spirituality.
Also part of this experience is the practice of silence as a way to cultivate a meditative attitude that facilitates the free expression of the Soul.
Nazaré Uniluz is a non-profit institution, not affiliated with religious or philosophical organizations and, for more than three decades, nourishes and is nourished by every individual who visits it and seeks a true and loving way of relating to oneself, to other people and to the totality of life. Welcome!
If we dream big, we envision Nazaré Uniluz as a global catalyst for a more mindful and compassionate society. In a world facing an unprecedented mental health crisis, our project seeks to heal the epidemic of disconnection and stress. We believe that global change begins with individual awakening; by transforming how one person relates to themselves, we transform how they relate to the Earth and society. By fostering self-knowledge and silence, we empower individuals to restore their mental well-being and return to their communities as agents of harmony. Our goal is to amplify this culture of peace, proving that living for the common good is the cure for isolation. Ultimately, we see a world where every human interaction is rooted in presence, empathy, and a deep respect for all life.
Social ImpactUnited Kingdom
Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre
9th place
180 SDG reviews
Volunteering at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre (Manjushri KMC) offers an opportunity to experience first-hand the Buddhist way of life within a vibrant, international community.
There are many ways in which you can help. For example, serving in the cafe, helping to prepare guest rooms, cooking, gardening or joining a renovation project for the building.
The aim is to bring happiness, deep happiness and real happiness to everyone. We want to have centres everywhere in the world where everyone has the opportunity to receive teachings and advices, and to understand and practise through qualified instructions. We also have an art studio in Ulverston, UK, where we build statues of qualified Buddhas. We would love to have art studios in different countries, for example in Europe and South America, to give others the wonderful opportunity to build and work on these holy statues. Our tradition is international, and we think of all living beings, not just people in the UK. I would also say that we think of and cherish all humans and non-humans. We would like everyone to understand that we need to cherish others, both human and non-human, such as animals. Cherishing others is the real source of happiness, and our ultimate goal is for everyone to understand this and know how to do it.
EcoSpain
Centro de Meditación KMC España
10th place
98 SDG reviews
Volunteering at a Kadampa Buddhist Temple is a great opportunity to spend a week in our modern Buddhist community, and to learn about or deepen your experience with meditation and Buddhism in daily life.
We are part of the international peace project for the world. In our center we are all volunteers and the funds raised from the courses are allocated to the construction of new centers; currently there are more than 1200 spread around the world.
We organize, among other activities, meditation retreats and prayers. Buddhist teachings are suitable for all people who want to know and understand their own minds.
Kadampa Buddhism is a Mahayana Buddhist tradition. Our practices foster wisdom and compassion.
The KMC Spain – Kadampa Meditation Center was founded in 2006 by the Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, a world-renowned meditation master who founded hundreds of centers around the world as part of the New Kadampa Tradition – International Kadampa Buddhist Union.
See winners from previous editions
Check out the award-winning projects, chosen by the Worldpackers community.
1st place
Portugal • Loulé
Animal Rescue Algarve
5.0
207 reviews
339 trips
This animal rescue center in Portugal saves, rehabilitates, and rehomes abandoned dogs and cats. Volunteers are key to daily walks, feeding, and loving care. With strong local outreach, education on animal welfare, and cozy wooden kennels, ARA gives second chances to animals and healing to those who help them.
2nd place
Germany • Sammatz
Michaelshof Sammatz
5.0
402 reviews
732 trips
It is an international community with over 37 years of history and many projects made with the help of volunteers, where 250+ people are building a new way of living, prioritizing people and nature.
3rd place
Argentina • Mendoza
Fundación Carmela Fassi
5.0
67 reviews
84 trips
Their project aims to make a positive impact, supporting socially vulnerable individuals. With a dedicated team of professionals, volunteers, and friends, they've worked on this mission for over 20 years. Valuing respect, understanding, and love, all participants receive necessary accommodations for their involvement.
4th place
Laos • Vang Vieng
MITTAPHAP-Saelao Project
5.0
97 reviews
196 trips
The SAE LAO project in Nathong Village, Laos, has been empowering local youth since 2008 by providing English education, sustainable farming, and community initiatives. Volunteers contribute to teaching, farm work, maintenance, and more while experiencing the beautiful local environment. Despite challenges from COVID-19, SAE LAO is rebuilding, offering meaningful opportunities for volunteers to make a real impact in the community.
5th place
Brazil • Nazaré Paulista
Nazaré Uniluz
5.0
238 reviews
273 trips
Nazaré Uniluz is a space for continuous learning, offering courses, meditation practices, and personal growth experiences. Surrounded by the Atlantic Forest, it fosters spiritual connection, nature immersion, and volunteer work. For over 40 years, it has welcomed diverse individuals to deepen self-awareness, engage in altruistic service, and cultivate inner peace through communal living.
6th place
Thailand • Samoeng District
Watchara Organic Farm
5.0
200 reviews
259 trips
This project helps to build and maintain public schools for the Karen tribes in northern Thailand. It also provides scholarships and English classes. All of this is made possible thanks to the collaboration of volunteers.
7th place
Spain • Valencia
La Casa del Viento, Enguera, Valencia
5.0
84 reviews
132 trips
La Casa del Viento is an eco-farm dedicated to sustainable agriculture and community building. With 62 hectares of land, this project creates a positive environmental impact by fostering a deeper connection with nature. It provides volunteers with the opportunity to engage in meaningful work while embracing simplicity and cultural exchange.
8th place
United Kingdom • Ulverston
Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre
5.0
253 reviews
352 trips
Located in the UK’s Lake District, Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre offers volunteers a chance to support a vibrant Buddhist community. Help with gardening, guest services, cooking, or renovations while experiencing Buddhist life. This peaceful retreat, set in 70 acres of nature, has been fostering spiritual growth and connection for years.
9th place
France Saint-Mars D'outillé
Centre de Méditation Kadampa France
5.0
143 reviews
178 trips
The project provides a serene retreat in northwest France, fostering inner peace and connection. Rooted in Buddhist teachings, volunteers engage in diverse tasks, attend meditation classes, and respect community rules, fostering personal and spiritual growth.
10th place
United Kingdom • Derbyshire
Tara International Kadampa Buddhist Retreat Centre
5.0
153 reviews
181 trips
Tara International Kadampa Buddhist Retreat Centre offers a unique opportunity to explore spiritual life without leaving behind your everyday responsibilities. Nestled in a peaceful community of monks, nuns, and lay practitioners, the center promotes values like love, patience, and compassion. Volunteers help maintain this serene space, contributing to its beauty and supporting others in their journey toward inner peace.
1st place
Kenya • Nyamira
Blessed Children's Hope Foundation
5.0
57 reviews
76 trips
This NGO provides support in education, health, water, and self-sufficiency to families. Prioritizing well-being, they aim to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, offering guidance and tools for life through passionate volunteers.
2nd place
Argentina • Mendoza
Fundación Carmela Fassi
5.0
37 reviews
40 trips
Their project aims to make a positive impact, supporting socially vulnerable individuals. With a dedicated team of professionals, volunteers, and friends, they've worked on this mission for over 20 years. Valuing respect, understanding, and love, all participants receive necessary accommodations for their involvement.
3rd place
Thailand • Samoeng District
Watchara Organic Farm
5.0
142 reviews
194 trips
This project helps to build and maintain public schools for the Karen tribes in northern Thailand. It also provides scholarships and English classes. All of this is made possible thanks to the collaboration of volunteers.
4th place
Germany • Sammatz
Michaelshof Sammatz
5.0
289 reviews
562 trips
It is an international community with over 37 years of history and many projects made with the help of volunteers, where 250+ people are building a new way of living, prioritizing people and nature.
5th place
Costa Rica • Drake Bay
Finca Ganadito
5.0
80 reviews
110 trips
Located in Punta Ganadito, Finca Ganadito focuses on regenerative agriculture and sustainable living. Volunteers immerse in the rural Costa Rican lifestyle, and engage in learning, science, & sustainability activities, leaving a positive ecological footprint.
6th place
Costa Rica • Paraíso
Finca Agroecologica La Flor
5.0
51 reviews
81 trips
Managed by ASODECAH, the project promotes sustainable living and multicultural connections. Volunteers enjoy rewarding experiences in stunning nature, with activities like language lessons and yoga retreats, fostering a harmonious atmosphere.
7th place
France • Saint-Mars D'outillé
Centre de Méditation Kadampa France
5.0
56 reviews
84 trips
The project provides a serene retreat in northwest France, fostering inner peace and connection. Rooted in Buddhist teachings, volunteers engage in diverse tasks, attend meditation classes, and respect community rules, fostering personal and spiritual growth.
8th place
Sweden • Asarum
Elsebråne Farm & Café
5.0
59 reviews
119 trips
The hosts are passionate about sustainable living and tasty food, creating a welcoming environment where volunteers relax in nature. From cooking to cleaning, there's always something exciting. Join them near Karlshamn to learn about cuisine, teamwork, and our values, building an authentic, happy community.
9th place
Slovenia • Gradišica
Ekološka kmetija Brhanovi
5.0
41 reviews
52 trips
Volunteers experience real farming, surrounded by nature. Organic farming practices promote sustainability and biodiversity. It's a chance to learn, adapt, connect with nature, and cultures, and create lasting memories.
Leave your reviews and recognize the host according to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
3
Vote for the projects that received the most community recognition and are making a real difference.
Cast your vote by June 19th for the 2026 edition.
1
Join the Worldpackers community
Become a Worldpackers host with an ecological and/or social project. Complete your profile and add the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) your project supports.
2
Reach Top Host status
Confirm 10+ trips, receive at least 6 reviews, and maintain an average rating of 4.8+ throughout the year.
3
Encourage volunteers to leave reviews
To count toward the award, reviews must also endorse at least one of the SDGs highlighted on your profile.
4
Become one of the Top 10 most recognized hosts
The 10 projects with the highest number of SDG-endorsed reviews from confirmed 2026 trips will be selected.
To qualify, hosts must:
Be a Top Host with an ecological or social project
Maintain an average rating of 4.8+
Rank among the top 10 hosts by SDG-endorsed reviews in 2026
Tiebreaker: the highest percentage of confirmed trips in 2025 with one or more SDG endorsements.
5
Community voting decides the ranking
The final order of the awards will be determined by a vote from Worldpackers members in 2027.
6
Winners announced on World's Environmental Day
Worldpackers will reveal the 10 winners on June 24th, every year.
* To be eligible, projects must achieve Top Host status at least 30 days before the award date. Only trips confirmed in 2026 will be considered for the next edition.
hours of social and ecological impact volunteering facilitated since 2014
8241
social and ecological projects registered
4.7
star average review for Travelers
74%
of our Applicants finish our Volunteering & Collaborative Exchange Certificates
WP’s Ecological & Social Sustainability Award Goals
Create awareness around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals
Encourage our most impactful hosts to provide culturally enriching and educational exchanges
Assist the most impactful social and ecological projects in our community
Spread knowledge & create a resilient, thriving, and abundant future
Join us in our mission for a sustainable world
Worldpackers is a global community of conscientious travelers and welcoming hosts promoting thousands of connections and unique experiences since 2014. We seek to foster the development and transformation of the world into a more socially & environmentally sustainable place, and we address the impact of each experience through the UN Sustainable Development Goals as listed below:
Beach Clean Ups
Since April 2021, Worldpackers has organized over 140 Beach Clean UPs to directly support three UN sustainable development goals.