The Ideal Host...
After Work Walk
by Claude Monet
- understands that WWOOFers are not just free labour,(they are not workers /they are volunteers) and want to learn something, contribute their help & /or see the area you’re in
- understands that people are most productive when they’re happy - be nice to the WWOOFers!
- asks WWOOFers why they are WWOOFing, what they hope to learn, as opposed to handing out the easy jobs any two hands can do
- considers BEFORE telling a WWOOFer to come whether you really need or are prepared to have someone in your life right then. Saying “no” to a WWOOFer on the telephone or via email,is easier for everyone to handle than saying “yes” when it’s not a good time (because you may be having personal challenges)
- remember that WWOOFers are PEOPLE first, and might prefer to be introduced by their names, than as “our WWOOFer”
- keep in mind it takes only 5 minutes to make a list of jobs that takes 5 hours to do - no need to overkill! Be clear and organized with what you would like them to do. Express your appreciation. It's always nice to be complimented
- realize that WWOOFers come with all different levels of experience, and that some farms do things differently, so even if the WWOOFer has done a particular task before, they might not do it YOUR way. Be patient & strive for open communication - remember the WWOOFer is not trying to mess up! Most are trying their best to help you.
"Our farm has been hosting WWOOFers for over 15 years. We love the incredible
diversity of personalities, energy and input brought to our farm and home by
hosting WWOOFers from all over the world. The contributions of WWOOFers make
small scale farming economically and physically feasible, and the support
that farm families receive continues to enable us to produce nutritious food
using sustainable and enironmentally responsible farming practices for many
to enjoy!"
(Mariposa Organic Farm, BC)
"We enjoy sharing our farm and expertise with young and old. We believe that
the best way to create harmony is to know each other one on one. As we have
travelled the world and been welcomed into new communities, we open our home
and hearts to all the wonderful people who bless us with their enthusiasm."
(Blue Stone Alpacas, BC)
"Hosting WWOOFers from all over the world who were keenly interested and enthused to learn what we have to teach has been an enormously rewarding experience, not to mention a tremendous help in our organic lifeways. My only regret is that we didn't become members a long time ago!"
(Wilsons Organic Blueberries, Ontario)
"Thank you infinitely for your WWOOF organization through which the world comes to me! I no longer need to travel; I live my dream and these marvelous people add their magic to everything. Some have become long term friends. I am all alone, doing the "ïmpossible" so no matter what contribution is made EVERYTHING is appreciated. It is an additional pleasure to watch people blossom because they choose and accomplish a project they would never have had the opportunity to do otherwise. Many ask to stay longer then they had planned and there are often tears at parting.
Your organization is giving many people experiences of a lifetime and I must congratulate you for all your vision and good work."
(Rosemary, Ontario Host)
"We've been hosts for the past 8 years and have really enjoyed the experience. We have truly appreciated all the help that wwoofers have brought to us, the laughter they create, the fun we see them having and have found pleasure in some of the reciprocity shown to us on our travels. We have been invited to a few of their weddings, stayed with wwoofers in their home countries, met their families and hosted some of their parents here in Canada too. Who would have thought that being a wwoof host would include all of that!"
(Glen & Catherine, BC Host)
