Volunteering

L'Abbé Pierre was a Catholic priest, figure of the French resistance, politician, founder of the Emmaüs (see also Emmaus International) and a folk hero in France who died in January 2007. The genesis of the Emmaüs movement is very interesting as is l'Abbé Pierre, so click on any of the links above or visit your local bibliothèque. Briefly: Emmaus is a solidarity movement to fight poverty and homelessness in France and internationally, by creating awareness, providing shelter, and raising funds.

Coluche is a French comedian from the 1970s and 1980s whose main shtick was playing the ignorant racist. While Coluche found fame and riches later in life, he grew up in poverty, and is also known as a great humanitarian in France. Coluche is one of the founders of Les Restos du Coeur and les Enfoirées. Les Restos du Coeur are more than just restaurants, and equally offers a support network for those in need: they provide emergency shelter; back-to-work programs, a movement (see also ccording to their website, les Restos du Coeur have hundreds of gardens all over France, from 50 square metres to 18 hectares that yield enough to feed hundreds of people for 90-100 days at their restaurants; and centres to assist new and expecting moms and their young ones, providing food, diapers, clothing, pediatric consultations, games... to list some of the things they do.

If you have a good command of French - but I'm not sure if this is that important since some organisations look for people able to teach English skills - and are interested in volunteering during your time in Lyon, you might want to get in touch with either of the organisations above. However, if you're looking for something different, click here: Carrefour du bénévolat - Grand Lyon they try to match you up with volunteer positions based on your experience, skills, and interests.