Colle Don Bosco Volunteer Project
Site Overview
Colle Don Bosco, the birthplace of St. John Bosco, is one of the most significant spiritual and historical centers of the Salesian world. Located in the hills of northern Italy, it serves as a global center of pilgrimage, formation, and encounter for young people and members of the Salesian Family.
The International Youth Volunteer Community offers a deeply immersive experience of living the Salesian charism at its source. Volunteers serve in a dynamic environment that combines hospitality, youth ministry, and intentional formation. The site welcomes pilgrims and groups year-round, inviting them to encounter the life and spirituality of Don Bosco in the very places where his mission began.
Available Ministries
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Catequesis & Retreat
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Parish
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Youth & Campus Ministry
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Youth Centre
Location
Time Commitment
Opportunities
Current Volunteers
Ministry Background
The Colle Don Bosco project is part of a renewed vision within the Salesian Congregation to transform this historic site into an international center of formation and hospitality. It responds to the call of recent General Chapters to highlight the importance of Salesian places as living spaces of evangelization, education, and discernment.
Purpose & Objectives
The purpose of this placement is to offer a volunteer experience rooted in service, vocational discernment, and Salesian formation. Volunteers accompany pilgrims, animate youth activities, and deepen their understanding of Don Bosco’s spirituality while discerning their own life path.
Programs, Activities, & Other Projects
- Formation and training of youth animators
- Development of educational and spiritual programming for visiting groups
- Support for international Salesian gatherings and pilgrimages
- Manual and logistical work supporting the upkeep of the site
Duties & Responsibilities
- Welcome and accompany pilgrims and visiting groups
- Guide tours of Salesian holy places (historic center, Dominic Savio’s home, Chieri, etc.)
- Assist in the missionary museum
- Animate games and activities for children and youth in the courtyard
- Collaborate in parish and oratory activities in Castelnuovo
- Support liturgical and pastoral activity at the Basilica of Don Bosco
- Participate in animator formation
- Assist with manual work and daily operations
Practical Qualifications/Skills Needed
- Ability to engage and accompany young people and groups
- Strong communication and relational skills
- Openness to intercultural and international environments
- Flexibility and willingness to serve in multiple roles
- Interest in Salesian spirituality and formation
Useful Academic Preparation
Background in theology, education, youth ministry, or related fields is helpful but not required.
Useful Experience
- Salesian youth ministry or animation experience
- Group leadership or facilitation
- Volunteer or mission experience
- Hospitality or guiding experience
Area Information
Colle Don Bosco, Italy — located in the Piedmont region near Turin. A peaceful, rural setting rich in Salesian history, regularly welcoming international visitors.
Involvement with the religous community
Area Information
Colle Don Bosco, Italy — located in the Piedmont region near Turin. A peaceful, rural setting rich in Salesian history, regularly welcoming international visitors.
Involvement with the greater community
Volunteers interact with pilgrims, youth groups, and members of the global Salesian Family. The international nature of the site fosters intercultural exchange and broadens the experience of the universal Church.
Special Challenges & Conditions
The experience requires openness to a structured formation program, communal living, and a balance between service and personal growth. Volunteers must be adaptable to an international environment and committed to both mission and formation.
Housing & Community
Live with Religious
Room
Daily Eucharist
Bathroom
Launder
Laundry facilities available within the community
Access to ATM
Local Diet
Meals are provided by the community. Volunteers share daily meals together, reflecting the communal and family spirit of Salesian life.
Local Medical Facilities
Accessible healthcare services available in nearby towns and Turin
