Types Of Volunteering Explained Plus How To Find The Perfect Project
Volunteering abroad is the perfect way to make a positive impact while immersing yourself in local cultures and communities. But with 50,000 opportunities in over 170 countries on Workaway, how do you know which type of volunteer work is the right fit for you?
We're here to guide you on your path to finding the perfect volunteering opportunity. Whether you're passionate about wildlife, education, tourism, or sustainability, we'll help you discover the types of volunteering that aligns with your interests and skills.
We might also help you do the opposite. You might discover an opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone entirely or towards a completely new career. The joy of volunteering with Workaway is that you’re not limited to one destination or project. You can explore as many different types of volunteering as you wish. Our membership is a small annual fee instead of a per project basis. This means once you join Workaway the world really is your oyster.
How to Choose The Type of Volunteer Work For You
What do you want to gain from volunteering?
Volunteering isn't just about giving back – it's also about personal growth and self-discovery. This means when choosing a host, don’t just think about the ways you can contribute but also what do you hope to achieve and gain from the experience?
Do you want it to boost your CV? Build your confidence in a new language? Or meet like minded people? While Workaway can help you do all three, having an initial goal can help narrow down the volunteer work you’d like to focus on first.
You can’t fake it
With Workaway, you'll have the chance to push your boundaries, learn new skills, and form deep connections with like-minded individuals from around the world. Plus, you'll have incredible stories to share and memories that will last a lifetime. But only if you choose volunteer work that you’re genuinely passionate about.
If you’re in it half heartedly or doing it for the Facebook likes, you’ll struggle to muster up enthusiasm and your days will drag. Volunteering is where passion meets purpose, so pick your projects with this in mind.
Challenge your comfort zone
As someone who’s personally used this platform, I also want to add that while we can give you a helpful nudge towards the type of volunteering you’d like, I cannot stress how important it is to also challenge your comfort zone.
I went from working in a corporate role in London to camping on beaches in Hawaii, living on an olive farm in Crete and even stayed in a treehouse in Switzerland. All through Workaway. With each experience I surprised myself, gained new skills and a new perspective.
At the core, choose volunteer work that aligns with your values and skills, but do not let fear hold you back from experiencing destinations or projects that are completely out of the norm for you. I promise, these are often the ones that teach you the most.
Let's dive in and discover the volunteering adventure that's waiting for you!
Types of Volunteering
Environmental Volunteer Work
Eco-warriors, nature lovers, environmental enthusiasts - listen up! In a nutshell, this type of volunteer work encompasses projects aimed at benefiting the natural environment.
Some examples include organic farming or permaculture, preserving rainforests, combating pollution, and promoting environmental education. Regrettably, these projects often face insufficient time and funding, making volunteers passionate about the planet (like you!) a crucial lifeline.
The need for support in environmental initiatives is becoming increasingly urgent, with natural disasters, plastic pollution, and deforestation posing ongoing threats to our planet. While we can argue humans are the force behind these issues, we can also be the solution. At Workaway, we advocate for slow and responsible travel, driven by our desire to safeguard the natural world for future generations.
Although it may appear daunting, we firmly believe that a collective effort can make a significant impact on our planet. This is why environmental volunteer work plays a vital role. It enables individuals to connect and unite under a shared vision, resulting in a powerful catalyst for change.
Are you passionate about nature and the environment? Do you have a deep sense of responsibility towards preserving and protecting the planet? Then environmental volunteer work could be the one for you! If you possess a strong connection to the outdoors, an adventurous spirit, and a drive to make a positive impact on the world, then find your next volunteering opportunity on the host list using the search words below.
Look for hosts with these keywords:
Permaculture Projects, Eco Farming, Ecovillage, Climate change initiative, Environmental Conservation, Sustainability
Guides to inspire you:
Looking for a pawsome experience that'll make your heart melt and your tail wag? Whether you're a cat whisperer, a dog enthusiast, or just simply adore all creatures great and small, Workaway can help you find the perfect project.
This type of volunteer work includes animal sanctuaries, where you'll care for rescued wildlife and provide them with a safe haven to thrive. Or if you fancy some farmyard fun, lend a hand on animal farms and ranches, getting up close with critters and learning the ropes of daily animal care. Alternatively, for those who prefer the sea to land, check out some of these marine conservation opportunities where you can learn how to protect our precious oceans that millions of animals call home.
Another way Workaway can connect you with pet pals around the world is through house sitting. House or pet sitting works similarly to other types of volunteer work, except your host isn’t present. Your main role is to care for their property and their pets when they’re out of town.
Volunteering with animals is perfect for the kind-hearted, patient, and compassionate souls among us. You should be ready to roll up your sleeves, muck in, and embrace the messy but rewarding side of animal care. While experience is a bonus, what really matters is your love for animals and a willingness to learn.
Did you know we can even help create a reference letter from your volunteering experience? This is ideal for those applying for competitive courses or roles, for example veterinary studies, marine biology or zoology!
Look for hosts with these keywords:
Animal Farms, Wildlife Conservation, Marine Conservation, Animal Rescue, Animal sanctuary, Animal Care, Pet sitting, Farmstay, Animal Welfare
Guides to inspire you:
- A beginner’s guide to Workawaying with animals
- House sitting Vs Volunteering: A complete comparison
- Tips on Workawaying and Travelling with Pets
- 8 reasons why house sitting is the way to see the world
Social Impact Volunteer Work
Prefer people to pets? Ready to make a meaningful impact? Social impact volunteer work is all about creating positive change in communities and empowering those in need. From working with children and youth NGOs to education, community development, and women's empowerment projects, there are endless opportunities to make a difference.
Whether you dream of teaching a language, organising fun activities for children, restoring homes for those in need, or supporting women in their journey to economic independence. These projects are not only rewarding but also allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture, and make meaningful connections. Best of all, they’re all just a click or two away!
If you're compassionate, open-minded, and enthusiastic, then this type of volunteer work should be top of your list! Social Impact projects need people who are team players, ready to embrace communities with empathy, creativity and kindness. In return, you will leave a lasting impact on the lives of others and help contribute to a brighter and more inclusive world!
Look for hosts with these keywords:
Working With Children, Youth NGO, Education/Schools/Teaching, Community Project, Non-Profit, Female Empowerment, Community Development
Guides to Inspire You:
Tourism Related Volunteer Work
Social butterflies, this is your time to shine! The tourism industry is still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, making volunteers vital now more than ever. From surf camps to yoga retreats, yurts to yachts - you can stay and play in paradise for free, in exchange for your time and skills.
From hostels to homestays, why pay for accommodation when you can travel for free instead through volunteering? You'll meet fellow travellers from around the globe and create unforgettable experiences all while learning the ropes of running your own business.
As well as supporting the day to day on the ground, you can get involved behind the scenes. If you’re a web development wizard or a social media sensation, local tourism businesses could really value your help. Use your online skills to let the world know about these destinations. All while adding valuable experience to your CV, and contributing to the communities that need it most.
As a tip, as this type of workaway help involves assisting businesses, many offer paid positions. This means it’s a great way to save money while travelling allowing you to travel slower and longer.
To thrive in tourism volunteer work, bring your passion for travel, an open mind, and a contagious zest for life. It's all about creating memorable moments, connecting with people, and embracing different cultures. So if you have a brain for business but a personality for people, let your wanderlust lead the way and get searching for your next adventure.
Look for hosts with these keywords:
Hostel/Homestay/Guest House, Digital Marketing, Hospitality, Social Media, Photography, SEO/Web Development, Reception, Tourism
Guides to inspire you:
Take The Quiz to Find The Type of Volunteer Work for You
Now we’ve explained a little about the main types of volunteering, it’s time for the fun to start! Take this multiple-choice quiz to see which answers you mostly align with. Grab a pen to keep track of your answers (A, B, C, or D) for each question.
1. How would your friends describe you?
A) The next Greta Thunberg. Recycling and reusing is in your DNA.
B) Dr Doolittle. You make friends with animals wherever you go.
C) A people person. You are a social butterfly that thrives when surrounded by others.
D) Hard to pin down. You’re always wearing a backpack because you are constantly ready for adventure.
2. Which activity excites you the most from this list?
A) Being outdoors. Nature is my BFF and I’ll do anything in my power to protect our planet.
B) Dog walks. Rain or shine, I’m passionate about all things puppies.
C) Teaching. The classroom is my dream stage to mentor the next generation.
D) Social Media. I am a scrolling sensation with epic photography skills and clever captions that are viral worthy.
3. Where would you like to make a difference?
A) Natural habitats and ecosystems: learning how humans and nature can coexist sustainably.
B) Sanctuaries and wildlife reserves: where I can squeeze, snuggle and save animals all day long.
C) Local communities and marginalised groups: anywhere as long as there’s people
D) A hostel or guest house: where everyday feels like a holiday
4. What type of environment appeals to you most?
A) Outdoors and surrounded by nature
B) Interacting with animals, on land or at sea
C) Collaborative settings with diverse individuals
D) Engaging with travellers and international visitors
5. Which skill are you most confident in?
A) Environmental conservation and sustainable practices
B) Animal handling and care
C) Teaching or communication skills
D) Digital marketing or web development
6. What kind of impact do you want to have?
A) Preserving the environment for future generations
B) Improving the lives of animals in need
C) Empowering individuals and communities
D) Enhancing the tourism experience for visitors
7. Which of these quotes resonates with you most?
A) “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief someone else will save it” - Robert Swan
B) “Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms” - George Eliot
C) “ The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” - Mahatma Ghandi
D) “Travelling: it leaves you speechless then turns you into a storyteller” - Ibn Battuta
8. How would you like to contribute to a project?
A) Hands-on work in natural settings
B) Direct care and support for animals
C) Mentoring and empowering others
D) Utilising my technical skills and creativity
9. What type of experience are you looking for in particular?
A) Immersion in nature and eco-friendly practices
B) Meaningful interactions with animals
C) Making a difference in the lives of individuals
D) Combining my skills with my passion for travel
10. What sounds most like your perfect day?
A) Waking up on an off-grid permaculture farm, spending the day planting and picking before sharing a nourishing meal with fellow eco-warriors
B) Waking up faced with a furry friend ready for walkies, spending the day grooming, feeding and playing before snuggling up to do it all again tomorrow.
C) Waking up in a rural village, spending the day watching kids’ vocabulary and smiles grow as I teach them my native language. Who knows what tomorrow will bring!
D) Waking up with sore arms from last night’s dance off, spending the day meeting and greeting guests and snapping pics to update socials. Spending the evening continuing the party from the night before.
Now, let's tally up your answers and see which letter you selected the most:
Mostly A: Environmental Volunteer Work
You are a tree-hugging, compost-loving, planet-saving superhero (most likely) in khaki shorts. With permanently dirty hands and a smile as bright as the sun, you’re happiest knee-deep in mud, planting trees, and sharing your passion for the planet with others.
Armed with a reusable water bottle and a collection of eco-friendly puns, you’re always ready to tackle environmental challenges with boundless energy and a touch of humour. If you're a nature lover with a knack for turning trash into treasure and a passion for protecting our planet, join Workaway and become a green guardian in the world of environmental volunteering! Let's save the Earth one eco-adventure at a time!
Mostly B: Volunteering with Animals
With a magnetic charm that attracts all creatures great and small, you have a heart as warm and fluffy as a month-old kitten. Armed with an endless supply of belly rubs and walkies, you are on a mission to create a world where animals reign supreme.
Whether it's watching turtles hatch on the shore or rescuing stray dogs from the city, your infectious enthusiasm makes every animal adventure a paw-some experience. If you're a creature cuddler with a penchant for pets and a knack for communicating in meows and woofs, join Workaway to embark on an animal-filled volunteering journey.
Mostly C: Social Impact Volunteer Work
You are the superhero of social impact! Armed with a cape made of kindness and a heart full of compassion, you have the power to make smiles appear in the gloomiest of places. From building forts with four year olds to solving world problems during tea breaks, you have the skills to do it all.
With a never-ending supply of hugs and high-fives, you spread love and empower communities with contagious kindness. If you're a cheerleader for change, a master of playtime, and a superhero disguised as a human. Join Workaway to make the world a better place, one project at a time!
Mostly D: Tourism Related Volunteer Jobs
With a backpack full of hareem pants and a playlist of party tunes, you are the guru of good times. You can turn a hostel into a home, organise epic adventures, and make strangers into lifelong friends.
You've got a knack for storytelling and a love for exploring, and you bring magic to every travel moment. If you're a social butterfly, a master of spontaneous dance parties, and have a brain for business, join Workaway and let the wanderlust take over!
Did we mention you can also join Workaway as a couple or family? Why not send our quiz to your friends and discover if they’ll be joining you on your next volunteering adventure!
Now you’ve discovered the types of volunteer work, you can unlock a world of fulfilling experiences! Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an animal lover, a social champion, or a tourism aficionado, there's a volunteer role perfectly tailored to your unique personality.
Don’t forget with Workaway you don’t just need to stick to one type of volunteering. With our membership you can embrace as many projects as you like in over 170 countries around the globe!
Whatever you choose, remember that volunteering is not just about giving, but also about connecting with new cultures, making lifelong friendships, and discovering the incredible power within yourself to make a difference.
So, let's lace up those volunteering boots, embrace the adventure, and embark on a journey that will not only change the lives of others but also leave footprints on your own heart. The world is waiting, and it's time to make your mark!
About Lauren
Growing up in a small coastal village in Scotland inspired Lauren to seek adventure and challenge the norm. Armed with just her backpack and trusty travel companion Darren, she quit her day job to liv
