Volunteering abroad
Volunteer in a volunteer project and gain experience abroad
Supporting sustainable volunteer projects abroad together with other volunteers - that's what volunteer work abroad is all about for us. One unforgettable time abroad Spending time and authentically experiencing the culture of another country is a very special life experience that we would like to make possible for you. Our volunteer programs allow you to go beyond traveling and make the world a better place.
RGV offers you a wide range Volunteer activities, from which you can choose according to your interests. Are you ready for this? Make a little BIG change!
Page content: Volunteering abroad
Volunteer programs by continent
Popular projects
Tanzania & Zanzibar | football
from 4 - 52 weeks
from 16 years
South Africa | Building supervisor
from 4 - 12 weeks
from 18 years
Tanzania & Zanzibar | obstetrics
from 4 - 52 weeks
from 18 years
Tanzania & Zanzibar | obstetrics
from 4 - 52 weeks
from 18 years
Namibia | Teach
from 4 - 52 weeks
from 18 years
Tanzania & Zanzibar | Teach
from 4 - 52 weeks
from 17 years
Greece | horses
from 4 weeks
from 18 years
Ghana | Teach
from 4 - 52 weeks
from 16 years
South Africa | big cats
from 6 - 12 weeks
from 18 years
More than 250 volunteer volunteer projects in 30 countries worldwide
With over 250 aid projects in more than 30 target countries worldwide, including Europe, Africa, Asia, Latin America and Oceania, you have the opportunity to get involved wherever you want and gain unique international experiences.
>> Arrange a consultation appointment now
Our wide range of volunteer programs allows you to choose from different volunteering areas of activity:
- Social work abroad with children
- Medical volunteer programs abroad
- Volunteering with animals
- Volunteer work in environmental protection & nature conservation
- Volunteering in Sports
- Nursing internship abroad
- Volunteer work in crafts
- Creative and cultural work abroad
Do you like working with people? Then that is it social volunteer work exactly the right program for you! Regardless of whether in the Children's programme, with seniors or people with disabilities – there are countless possibilities. Do you enjoy passing on knowledge to others? Then there is the education sector or that Teaching abroad exactly the right thing for you. Here too, there are various options, from schools to summer camps to projects with street children.
Is it more like that? animal welfarethat excites you? Whether animal shelters with horses, dogs and cats, marine conservation projects, Sloths and turtles or the use for wildlife like elephants, Cheetahs etc. – a variety of volunteer projects await you when working with animals. If nature is particularly close to your heart, you can also get involved as a volunteer in environmental protection programs, on land and on water.
Places for volunteer work are primarily provided by: government agencies and non-profit organizations (NGOs) offered. There is often a lack of financial resources, which can be reflected in the equipment, the materials provided and the staffing of the deployment sites.
Volunteer jobs can be very different and work. From animal rescue to species and nature conservation, medicine to humanitarian aid and much more. It's up to you to find the area and project that suits you best.
Project combinations
To give you the best possible experience, we offer Project combinations where you have different Volunteer projects also cross-border the kombinier can. It is also possible to combine different foreign programs, e.g. volunteer work with one Internship or an adventure trip.
More add-ons
An accompanying one language course in English or the local language, exciting Adventure Trips, workshops and one Variety of courses for leisure can optionally be booked on site.
What is volunteering abroad about?
Volunteering is a form of social engagement in which you volunteer your time and work, usually for a limited period of time, to support charitable, social or ecological projects make available.
In the volunteer projects you use your skills free of charge to help people, animals or the environment. This is a small but important contribution to improving living conditions and protecting habitats.
Flexible volunteer work allows you to choose the target country, the area of operation, the area of activity and the time abroad according to your wishes.
Who can take part in volunteer work abroad?
We organize participation in volunteer work individually for you Solo Travelers Destinations and for everyone who likes for two or in groups travel. We make suitable ones possible Programs for students, For High school graduates or 18 years and older, the A Year abroad after graduation want to do and students as well as selected ones Projects for Skilled Volunteers (seniors and working people)who would like to take a break from everyday working life as part of a sabbatical. Also Parents with children We enable people with disabilities to participate in individually tailored volunteer projects.
Support beyond your active volunteer time
Volunteering abroad is about supporting an existing charitable project with your work - with or without specific previous knowledge. You are not replacing any local workers, but you actively help the employees on site.
Those who have experienced for themselves where support is needed during a volunteer assignment abroad often want to too after returning continue to help abroad - we would like to motivate you to do so. This is a essential goal of your voluntary service: to promote a cosmopolitan, sensitized and globally thinking society.
Volunteering as an initiator for global and intercultural learning
The overarching goal should be: intercultural exchange a global learning stimulate and sharpen your view of global connections. For your personal development This means great enrichment and further development for you! By participating in a volunteer project for a longer period of time, you will gain valuable insights into the global connections our world and you return to your everyday life more informed, more cosmopolitan and richer in experiences.
This is how you find the right project for your volunteer work abroad
So that you don't lose track, we have divided our projects according to continents, countries and areas of activity so that you can find your dream project quickly and easily.
For volunteering abroad are usually no special expertise required, but good knowledge of English or Spanish, along with cosmopolitanism and a bit of initiative, are important prerequisites. Flexibility, the willingness to get involved in new situations and adapt, as well as motivation and initiative are crucial for the success of your project.
When choosing a suitable project, the most important thing is to choose the right one Finding a balance between previous experience, interest and skills.
>> To the RGV information events
The most important things to prepare for volunteer work abroad at a glance
- Research and selection of the volunteer program: Look for programs that match your interests and goals. When selecting the destination country, pay attention to the country's usual standards and make sure that your personal expectations are compatible with them. Find out which country suits you best.
- Application and selection: Apply early, ideally 3 to 12 months before your planned departure. Research the volunteer program of your choice thoroughly. Check whether all requirements are met and all required documents are available.
- Financial Planning & Money: Create a budget for your volunteer work. Take this into account as well Volunteer participation fee also the costs for Insurance, flight, possible visa and health care. Also plan some money for excursions and trips.
- scheduling: For assignments in the social sector, a participation period of at least 4 weeks (short-term voluntary service) to a maximum of one year is to be expected. If the participation period lasts one year, it is also referred to as one fsj - a voluntary social year.You can volunteer for ecological work or tasks with animals for as little as two weeks.
- Visa and insurance: Find out in advance whether there is one for your host country Entry visa is required and read the entry requirements of the Foreign Office. Also, ask about the insurance you need, including health insurance and travel insurance.
- Travel health care: You can find it on our website detailed guides for a solid Travel preparation. Local travel safety, adequate health care and good travel insurance are essential aspects of the preparation. To your health care This includes, among other things, getting advice from your doctor or a tropical medicine specialist about the necessary vaccinations. You can get reliable information about necessary or recommended health care and vaccinations from Center for Travel Medicine.
- Cultural preparation: Familiarize yourself with the customs and language of your host country in order to... culture shock submissions.
- Packing List: Create a packing list of the things you need for your time abroad. Think about weather-appropriate clothing, personal items and important documents. Please also browse ours Tips for your personal packing list.
- Communication: Inform family and friends of your plans and leave them contact information. Think about how you can stay in touch during your stay, e.g. B. through social media or phone cards.
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Attitude and expectations: Approach your volunteer program with an open mind. Be prepared to adapt, gain new experiences and accept challenges and unfamiliar customs.
We provide support in ours RGV Academy extensive learning material available. For example, videos about personality development and to Reflection after the trip.
Note: Preparation for a stay abroad varies greatly depending on the continent. Africa, for example, requires completely different preparation than Asia, Europe, Latin or South America.
Responsible volunteering with Rainbow Garden Village
RGV is not only a sending organization, but also takes over also the implementation and support on site, Our Team leaders in the RGV target countries are in constant contact with our volunteer projects and our volunteers as well as in regular communication with our office in Munich.
Standards and quality guidelines for responsible volunteer work abroad
To ours Quality guidelines In order to meet the requirements for volunteer services, we work according to the following principles, which are adhered to by all those involved in volunteer work abroad. This includes us as a volunteer organization, you as a participating volunteer, the volunteering projects as well as our RGV teams and guest families.
Child protection policy: Working with children requires special care in project preparation and implementation. Voluntary services in orphanages or facilities where children sleep have not been offered by our organization since 2016.
conservation guidelines: Stays with Rainbow Garden Village are sustainable and gentle in many ways. We respect the environment and help leave it as we found it.
Animal welfare guidelines: Preserving biodiversity is a central concern of our organization. Avoiding attractions and activities that violate animal welfare is therefore a central concern of our work in volunteer programs with animals.
The success of our volunteer programs: Together we are better
Together with other volunteers, you are part of our local community. We will help you prepare for your stay abroad right from the start and will also give you important assistance on site so that you can optimally settle into your new environment.
>> To the preparatory seminars
- Preparatory seminars: At the RGV preparation seminars you will learn, among other things, methods on how to prevent culture shock. You will also meet many other volunteers and can network with them.
- Experienced coordinators: Trained and experienced coordinators will advise you comprehensively and prepare you optimally for your upcoming stay abroad before you leave. RGV is already a sending organization since 1999 for voluntary services abroad. Find out more about Rainbow Garden Village here.
- On-site support: An RGV team will support you at your chosen location. This includes, for example, pickup from the airport, orientation workshops and support during your stay abroad. In emergencies, you can also reach a volunteer coordinator in the Munich office via our 24/7 hotline.
- RGV Volunteer Community: Your stay abroad will become something very special thanks to the community with other German and English-speaking volunteers and you will make friends for life. Our volunteers support each other both in the accommodation and in the project, go on tours together at the weekend or enjoy their free time after volunteering.
But RGV also offers very individual programs where you can be there alone. Inquire with us in advance about the participation of other volunteers.
The Invaluable Benefits of Volunteering Abroad - More Than Just Travel!
Volunteering abroad offers you the opportunity to make valuable contributions Experience abroad with meaningful work connect to. Here you can take the time to realign your inner compass and expand your horizons. Find out what other positive impact volunteering can have on you.
Especially yours personality development will benefit from cultural exchange outside of your usual environment. You will also gain valuable work experience that will look good on your resume.
Help solve ecological problems, face social challenges and place connections in the global context - all while immersing yourself in the way of life of a foreign culture!
Still unsure what your role will be in this world? Embark on an adventure that is much more than just a trip: A unique experience that will make you return more cosmopolitan and enrich your life.
Ready for your volunteering adventure?
Interested in volunteering abroad? Then choose your desired destination and get there.
- Search online for your dream project
- Find out about the volunteering tasks, the services included and the participation fees in the project description
- If you work as a volunteer in the social sector, take the holiday periods of your desired country into account. Children's facilities such as kindergartens and schools are subject to local holiday times. During the holiday periods there are holiday programs for the children that you can take part in.
- Let us advise you in detail
- Apply online for your preferred volunteer program
Further information about volunteering
To find out more about our aid projects, our target countries and how we work, we recommend our RGV magazine. Over 250 posts and testimonials are waiting for you!
FAQs: Frequently asked questions about foreign programs with RGV
Preparation
How far in advance do I have to register?
Ideally your registration takes place at least 3-6 months before the desired departure date, But also short-term registrations are up 1-2 months before the planned departure is possible.
But it could be that your dream project is already booked. In this case we will try together to find a suitable alternative for you.
Can I travel with a friend or in a group?
Yes! On request we enable a double room if you for two with a friend or a friend, or an apartment or other suitable accommodation for groups.
We are very happy to enable our participants to go on a project and share accommodation with friends. Shared accommodation is usually possible both in the volunteer house and with the host family, although the room in the volunteer house may also be shared with other participants. In some locations there is also the option of sharing an apartment.
When registering, please always mention the person(s) traveling with you!
Which previous knowledge do I need?
For most projects are Soft skills such as reliability, initiative and a sense of responsibility as well as the motivation to support a project are sufficient. Good linguistic proficiency (English or Spanish or French) are a great advantage. For some projects, however, specific knowledge necessary - you can read about this in the respective project description.
What insurance do I need?
In order to be able to take part in one of our projects, you need the following insurance:
- Health Insurance
- Private liability insurance
Make sure that the insurance is valid in your destination country!
When do I have to submit the documents?
Documents are only required after a binding registration. You should send us a letter of motivation and your CV by email immediately after registering. We need all the remaining documents no later than 4 weeks before departure.
Here you have one Overview of all required documents.
How do I change money into local currency?
It is best to take a credit card with you and withdraw money from the machine on site. Here you will find information about a free Visa card.
Will the project be recognized by my university?
As a rule: Yes! It is important that you let us know in advance Requirements of your university/college to a project (e.g. nursing internship). Internship specifications and focal points can be adhered to as long as we are informed about this and can therefore search for the appropriate placement.
Do I need a visa?
Yes, for some countries there will be one Visa needed! For many RGV destination countries, a visa must be applied for in advance. We will give you thorough instructions and obtain the necessary letters of invitation from your destination country.
Will I receive a confirmation of participation?
Yes, after your successful participation in an RGV project you will be issued with a confirmation of participation.
How can I get involved in my project after I return?
There are many ways to get involved as an RGV returnee upon your return. On the one hand, educational work in your area is a good start to make people aware of the project and the need. For example, organize an event at your university or in your community.
You can also send donations in kind and money to your project, which are always gratefully accepted. Find out in our magazine article about other ways you can continue to support your project from home.
>> Ask us an individual question <
We are happy to answer you from Monday to Friday between
10: 00 and 12: 00 clock and 14: 00 and 16: 00 clock
your individual questions. Just give us a call! Plan an individual consultation appointment with us or send us your message.
Costs & Financing
What additional expenses can I expect on site?
We have already covered most of the costs with your participation fees. Nevertheless, you should have additional costs of average 75 to 130 euros per week plan on. The largest additional costs usually arise from your personal expenses and your leisure activities. The amount varies depending on the country and activities.
During the preparation of the trip, costs for the entry visa may arise. Not every visa has a fee associated with it.
What are the participation costs?
The program costs vary depending on the country, project and duration of participation. At the end of each of our project descriptions you will find the program costs and the included services.
What does the organization use my money for?
Meaningful volunteer work abroad is associated with numerous cost factors. What are they and why is that so? => Detailed information can be found in our Article on the subject.
Sign in
How can I sign up?
Did you find your dream project? Perfect! Then you can now register with binding effect. Simply click on the "Register now" button in the respective project description and fill out the form. You can find more detailed information on the registration process in our Volunteer Guide.
How does the flight booking work?
As soon as we have confirmed your registration by email, nothing stands in the way of booking a flight. We have clearly described the best way to book your flight here:
Can I combine projects?
Yes! You can combine projects at one location, at different locations, but also in different countries. It is also possible to combine a project with a trip. You can specify your desired combination directly when registering.
Combination options at a glance:
- Combine programs in one country
- Combine programs across countries
- Combine a program with a language course
- Combine a program with ours Adventure & Trips
There are a few things Project combinations to note: The minimum length of stay per project must be observed and you may incur additional costs for country combinations, for example for an intermediate flight.
Can I extend on site if I like it?
Yes, this is possible from our side! The following points must be checked:
- Availability on site: The project must not be fully booked at the time.
- Validity of the visa: Your visa may need to be valid long enough.
- Rebooking the return flight: If you have already booked a return flight, you should be able to rebook it.
Health
Which vaccinations are recommended?
The required vaccinations vary greatly from country to country. For example, more vaccinations are required in the tropics than in the extratropical latitudes. In the health care we recommend using several information channels as a matter of principle:
• Consultation with the doctor
• Information from the Foreign Office
You can get general information about recommended health care and vaccinations online Center for Travel Medicine as well as on the side of Foreign Office.
On site
Are there other volunteers on site?
Yes! At our larger locations and in most animal welfare projects, you can be sure that you will meet other volunteers on site. Only in exceptional cases can it happen that there are no other volunteers on site.
Most of our volunteers come from German-speaking countries and other European countries.
=> Feel free to ask us by phone, how your project and your participation period look like.
Are there contact persons on site?
At all of our locations we have contact persons and RGV teams on site who will be happy to be there for you during your stay.
What are the working hours in the project?
Working hours can vary greatly between individual projects. Most of the time, however, you will be working on the project between 5 and 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. In the social field, the weekends are usually free.
Is there internet on site?
Often there is WiFi in our accommodations. If this is not available, the mobile network is usually sufficiently developed to go online. You can get a SIM card cheaply on site. Your team leaders can give you tips on this.
Can I travel on the weekends?
Almost all of our participants are in theirs free time very active and use the weekends or the days off to Journeys!
At most locations there are always several participants on site, so you can go on tour together. Our teams have plenty Tips for you and will be happy to advise you on organizational issues, such as public transport.
Can I travel after my project?
Yes, of course you can continue to explore the country after your assignment. However, you must observe the expiry date of your visa. You can also find them all here travel deals from RGV, which you can optionally book.
