Nearly 800 volunteers of all ages and from all points of the globe have helped create the center at La Giraudière. These volunteers continue to create and improve not just the the center, but also the different programs offered and the day-to-day running of La Giraudière.
Our Story
Paul Rice purchased La Giraudiere and envisioned its potential as a center for cultural exchange. It became clear that visitors to the area were looking for more than laying in the sun, visiting markets, viewing sunflowers and drinking French red wine. All of these activities could be done anywhere in France.
One day a family from USA who were staying at La Giraudière said, “Paul, can we help you today as we want something different to do!” With this, Paul was quick to take up their offer of help, and in exchange he explained how to crepi a house with chaux. Yes, rendering a house with a lime mix and showing the different techniques such as Pierre apparent, joints and crepi.
Jim, the American volunteer was so keen to learn the different techniques which were older than the USA itself. Paul explained that the stones used in the building of La Giraudiere could have taken anything from thousands to a million years to make.
So, the Volunteers Project was started in 2008 and in its first year opened its doors solely for the month of May. Volunteers from the USA, Scotland and England arrived and a video was created by Michelle from USA.
Visit our YouTube channel at La Giraudiere on You Tube
YouTube Videos About Us
Videos about us and how this project came about are on YouTube. Take a look at a video which was created by Michelle in 2008 where she explains more about the early days at La Giraudiere.
Since 2008, the project has advanced, different programs were introduced and accreditation was earned. For a few years La Giraudière was open all year round and included a Christmas program, live music nights, markets and many events.
Paul, the present project manager, is now looking for someone to take over the reins. Maybe it is you? Read more at Working In France.
In 2024, there will be one Volunteer Program
26th June 2024 until 30th September 2024
The recommended volunteering period is 3 weeks but you can apply for any length of stay during the 2024 program.