From helping in local shelters to supporting global initiatives, these internet platforms offer a wide array of opportunities for people to volunteer their time and skills. Whether you're a first-time volunteer or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you navigate the world of international volunteering, making it easier to find the right opportunity that aligns with your passions and lifestyle.
Programmes we talk about:
1. European Solidarity Corps
ESC—the European Solidarity Corps it’s an initiative by the European Union that provides young people (typically between the ages of 18-30) with opportunities to volunteer or work on solidarity projects across Europe. ESC aims to promote social inclusion, cultural exchange, and community development by supporting projects that address societal challenges, such as environmental protection, education, healthcare, and more.
👍 Wide choice of projects - this is the easiest way to find something that really suits you and your personality, apart from meeting new people and being part of the community.
👍 It's completely free of charge. Travel costs, accommodation, pocket money, insurance, language course and mentor are covered by ESC grand.
👍 KERIC is accredited sending and hosting organisation.
🔎 You can volunteer only up to 12 months in total.
Would you like more insights? Read Elena’s experience discovering Europe - from Iceland to ABBA.
Find everything you need to know about this type of volunteering at our website
KERIC is one of the accredited organisations to sent ESC volunteers.
You can find projects of our partners at: keric.sk/esc
2. ESC Humanitarian Aid
ESC Humanitarian Aid is a European Solidarity Corps initiative that enables young people to contribute to humanitarian aid projects in countries outside the EU. Programs are aimed to promote solidarity, address global challenges, and support communities affected by crises while offering participants meaningful international experience and skill development.
👍 Excellent opportunity to engage as an active citizen, show solidarity to people who just faced an humanitarian disaster – and its consequences
👍 Fully granted. Travel cost, accommodation, pocket money, insurance, language course and mentor are covered by ESC grand.
🔎 Applicants must finish 2 mandatory trainings and complete an application process through the European Solidarity Corps portal.
Want to know more? Read about how ESC Humanitarian Aid volunteers are helping families in Lebanon.
KERIC is one of the accredited organisations to sent ESC HumAid volunteers.
You can find our projects and projects of our partners at: keric.sk/esc
3. Workaway
Workaway connects travelers with hosts worldwide who are looking for help in exchange for food and accommodation. Many hosts focus on cultural exchange, offering opportunities to learn about local customs, traditions, and lifestyles while volunteering.
👍 Food and accommodation is provided.
👍 You can find your language buddy while abroad, in order to learn the language with a native speaker
🔎 You must pay a membership to join the Workaway community
Are you interested in learning more about this? Read some trips of a lifetime in the Sahara desert:
4. AIESEC
AIESEC is a global platform that offers exchange programs for young people to volunteer or work abroad. These programs are designed to immerse participants in different cultures, helping them build leadership skills and engage in meaningful cultural exchanges.
Programs include Global Volunteer (short-term social projects), Global Talent (professional internships), and Global Teacher (teaching roles) from 2 weeks up to 18 months.
👍 Acquire practical work experience and enhance your employability through internships in various fields.
🔎 Before leaving, you have to go through a selection process. After you sign up, you will get to know what are the next steps to become a member.
🔎 While the program fees are reasonable from €50-600+, additional expenses like travel, visas, and insurance can add up, making it less accessible for some.
Would you like to know more about this? Read about Andrada’s story from AIESEC to Microsoft.
5. WOOFing (WWOOF)
WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) connects travelers with organic farms around the world. In exchange for labor on the farm, volunteers are typically provided with food, accommodation, and the opportunity to experience rural life and local culture.
👍 You will have the opportunity to try many different tasks such as planting, harvesting, making compost, animal care, helping with eco-construction projects and much more.
🔎 You’ll have to pay a membership fee (from €20 to €50 per year), but in the WWOOF organisation of one country does not automatically allow WWOOFing in other countries.
🔎 Additional Costs: travel expenses, insurance, or visas are not covered.
Do you want to explore this further? Kira will give you some tips from her experience in Hawaii.
6. AuPairWorld
AuPairWorld is a leading website for those looking to become an au pair or find one. The platform connects young people with families offering live-in childcare positions, and it allows for flexible matching based on preferences like location, duration, and family needs.
👍 It’s a great option for those wanting to live the volunteering experience but with more freedom in choosing the right fit.
🔎 There is a limited choice of projects - you will live as a temporary family member, helping with light housework and babysitting.
🔎 Even though there is free membership, travel expenses, insurance, or visas are not covered.
Would you like to get more information? Watch Graham AuPair's experience in Spain.
7. GoEco
GoEco is a platform that connects volunteers with environmental and community projects around the world. The organization offers a variety of volunteer abroad programs focused on sustainable development, conservation, wildlife protection, and community-based projects. GoEco partners with local organizations in a wide range of countries, providing hands-on volunteer experiences that also promote cultural exchange.
👍 Volunteers can use GoEco programs for school hours or credit
🔎 Very expensive. Short-Term Programs (1-2 weeks): Typically range from $500 to $1,000 USD. Longer Programs (3 weeks or more): Range from $1,000 to $3,500 USD or more, depending on the project and its duration.
Would you like to know more about this? Read Cheuk’s experience at the Wildlife Animal Sanctuary in Australia.
8.UN Volunteers (UNV)
The UNV program provides opportunities for volunteering with the United Nations in areas like human rights, education, health, and the environment. UN Volunteers work to support the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and contribute to global peace, human rights, and sustainable development projects.
👍 You can volunteer both in person and online.
👍 UNV program is free. It covers your travel expenses. You will receive a monthly allowance to cover basic living expenses, such as food, housing, and transportation. Settling-In Grant: This one-time payment helps you with initial costs when you arrive at your assignment location. Health, life, and disability insurance are provided during your service. Repatriation Allowance
🔎 There may also be requirements of relevant professional and academic experience, as well as language proficiency
Would you like further details about this? Read Manuel's experience Embodying the spirit of Ubuntu in Angola.
9. Peace Corps
The Peace Corps offers young adults the chance to work on long-term development projects in countries around the world, including projects related to education, health, agriculture, and community development. Volunteers work for two years in the host community and are provided with room, board, and a small stipend.
👍 Minimum age of 18 years old to serve, but there is no upper age limit.
🔎 The application and selection process can be long and competitive, often taking 6-12 months or more from the initial application to departure.
🔎 The Challenge: Peace Corps service typically lasts 27 months (3 months of training + 24 months of service).
🔎 In many of the countries where you might serve, maintaining a specific diet could be challenging. These challenges may come from cultural norms or limited diversity in foods available. A food allergy may impact your medical clearance for some countries.
Are you curious to learn more about this? Find out how the life of 5 volunteers has changed after their service in Peace Corps.
10. HelpX
HelpX offers volunteer placements in exchange for food, accommodation, and cultural exchange. It includes a wide variety of opportunities such as farm work, eco-projects, childcare, and teaching, and you can choose to work in rural or urban settings around the world.
👍 The programme allows you to directly find hosts for a few hours of work per day, typically 4-6 hours, in exchange for room and board.
👍 HelpX operates worldwide, including in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Europe
🔎 Helpers must upgrade to Premier membership(€20 per year) to take full advantage of all HelpX has to offer.
Would you like to dive deeper into this? Watch Cédric’s adventure in Australia and around the world on their channel.
11. Worldpackers
Worldpackers connects travelers with hosts who need help with various projects such as working in hostels, eco-tourism, teaching, and social programs. Many of the placements also focus on providing cultural exchange experiences while helping with community development, social projects, or environmental initiatives.
👍 Volunteers work in exchange for free accommodation and meals, and it is a great platform for those looking for flexible, short-term volunteer opportunities.
🔎 you have to pay a membership fee around $50 - $120 to become part of the Worldpackers community
Would you like to find out more? Watch Margo’s (second) enlightening experience in a community in northern Germany.
12. ICYE Intercultural Youth Exchange
International Cultural Youth Exchange is a global network that offers opportunities for young people to engage in cross-cultural exchanges, typically through volunteering programs and educational experiences abroad.
👍 Programs are designed to promote intercultural understanding, peace, and social justice, and they provide young people with a chance to live in a different country, learn about different cultures, and contribute to local communities
🔎 It's not granted. You have to pay the cost of the project. (around €500 per month)
Would you like to know more about this? Check out their newsletter and updates for insights into their work and volunteer opportunities.
13. Salesian Mission
Salesian Missions is an international network inspired by the teachings of St. John Bosco, offering opportunities for young people to engage in service projects and mission work worldwide. The programs are focused on youth education, community development, and empowerment, allowing volunteers to live out values of compassion, faith, and solidarity while working alongside local communities.
👍 Accomodation and board, travel expenses and medical insurance to and from the site are paid by the SLM
🔎 Applicants are often required to manage the application process and arrangements independently, including connecting with regional Salesian offices.
Would you like to learn more? Read Ronald’s story and how the Don Bosco Centre is helping him.
14. CCIVS
Coordinating Committee for International Voluntary Service is a global network promoting peace and understanding through international voluntary service projects and intercultural exchanges. They emphasize sustainable development, cultural diversity, and community empowerment, offering volunteers opportunities to engage in meaningful grassroots projects worldwide.
👍 There are different types of projects, ranging from short to long term, which can focus on a variety of themes
🔎 CCIVS does not recruit volunteers - if you want to participate in international voluntary service, you need to contact an organisation in your country of residence or in a neighbouring country
Would you like to explore further? Visit their news and resources section to learn more about current projects and opportunities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these volunteering programs provide a convenient and flexible way to make a meaningful impact, regardless of your location or schedule. While each platform comes with its own set of benefits and challenges, the right choice ultimately depends on your personal goals, interests, and the type of experience you seek.
By considering the pros, cons, and feedback from fellow volunteers, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your values and skills. Whether you're looking to support a local charity or contribute to global initiatives, these platforms open up a world of opportunities to give back and create positive change. Volunteering offers a rewarding experience that not only benefits others but also enriches your own life.
