t Coverflex, new team members receive a handbook detailing the benefits available to them — and one of the most appreciated perks is caring days.
According to our internal guide:
“You are entitled to three assistance days per year. These can be used to support side projects or causes that have a positive impact on society.”
That means three fully paid days per year, separate from your vacation days, dedicated to volunteering. Amazing, right? Yet, many employees struggle to make the most of this benefit — especially when most volunteering opportunities require regular, long-term involvement.
But here’s the good news: plenty of projects welcome occasional or one-off volunteers — whether you prefer helping out in Lisbon, Porto, or even remotely. We’ve gathered a list of 7 meaningful and flexible volunteering ideas for your caring days.
1. Food Bank Against Hunger
The Food Bank organizes large food collection campaigns twice a year — typically in May and November — across Portugal. You can help collect donations at supermarket entrances, or sort food at the warehouse. Interested in this project? Sign up here.
2. ILGA Portugal
ILGA, which advocates for LGBTI+ rights, welcomes occasional volunteers for:
- Communication (design, video, social media)
- Event support (e.g., Lisbon Pride)
- Translation and logistics
Many tasks can be done remotely, making this a great option for digital volunteers. Learn more about volunteering at ILGA here.
3. Fruta Feia (Ugly Fruit Project)
Help fight food waste by supporting this non-profit cooperative that rescues imperfect fruits and vegetables. Occasional volunteers assist with assembling food baskets. The preparation of baskets usually takes place on weekdays from 2:30PM to 5:00PM in Lisbon. Find out more on the Volunteering Exchange website.
4. Serve the City
Serve the City offers a wide range of short-term volunteering opportunities with:
- Children and youth
- Homeless individuals
- Isolated elderly people
Activities include:
- Hosting community dinners
- Supporting community gardens
- Offering “Solidary Minutes” — simple conversations or help with tasks
Available in Lisbon and Porto, with flexible time slots (weekdays or weekends). Find your fit at Serve the City
5. Serralves Foundation
Based in Porto, this cultural institution relies on volunteers for:
- Public reception and event support
- Library and garden maintenance
- Special events like Serralves em Festa and the Autumn Festival
Choose tasks that match your skills and interests — perfect for a one-day contribution. Want to know more? Visit Serralves Foundation's website.
6. Lisbon Zoo
Support the Zoo’s educational mission by volunteering in areas like:
- Public assistance and info points
- Admin tasks or event support
Note: Volunteers don’t handle animals, but must love nature and be physically active. You can find more information here.
7. Brigada do Mar (Sea Brigade)
Join clean-up campaigns focused on beach conservation and biodiversity protection along the Portuguese coast. The association organizes events year-round — just register in advance.
Stay updated via:
- Brigada do Mar’s Facebook page
- Movimento #SemPalhinhas (anti-plastic straw initiative)
- Little Hero (urban waste awareness)
Bonus ideas
Besides these seven associations where you can volunteer occasionally, you can:
Caring days are a chance to give back on your terms — even if you only have a few hours to spare. Whether you’re passionate about social justice, the environment, or community wellbeing, there are many ways to use these days meaningfully.
Don’t let the opportunity pass. Choose one of these flexible options, sign up, and make your caring days truly count.
