Top 3 incredible volunteer opportunities for families
Family volunteering abroad is definitely a challenge to plan! Families can foster empathy, compassion and a sense of shared purpose through volunteering together abroad!
Which is why we’re here to show you 3 family volunteer programmes you can get involved in!
Are you interested in learning more about family volunteering? Read our article about everything you need to know about family volunteering abroad!
Family Volunteering Opportunities
Portugal, Lisbon
Family volunteering in Europe
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 8 years old
from €1,395 for 2 weeks
South Africa, Johannesburg5(1)
Community project in South Africa
- Duration
- 2 to 10 weeks
- Age
- From 16 years old
from €2,090 for 2 weeks
Philippines, Palawan5(1)
Environmental project in the Philippines
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 18 years old
from €890 for 2 weeks
Romania, Brasov
Humanitarian projects in Romania
- Duration
- 4 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 16 years old
from €1,770 for 4 weeks
Thailand, Chiang Mai5(2)
Childcare and teaching project in Chiang Mai
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 15 years old
from €1,050 for 2 weeks
Croatia, Split5(5)
Marine conservation volunteering
- Duration
- 2 to 8 weeks
- Age
- From 16 years old
from €2,525 for 2 weeks
Kenya5(2)
Education project in Kenya
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 15 years old
from €1,050 for 2 weeks
Fiji4(2)
Construction project in Fiji
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 15 years old
from €1,240 for 2 weeks
Portugal, Lisbon4(2)
Animal care programme in Portugal
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 16 years old
from €1,760 for 2 weeks
1. Family Volunteer Programme: Eco-Volunteering in Kenya
Located in the rural area of the Great African Rift Valley in Kenya, an eco-responsible farm has offered family volunteer opportunities since 2008.
The farm focuses on protecting biodiversity and promoting local development.
Volunteer tasks include property maintenance, studying animal behavior, creating donkey harnesses, waste collection, and participating in educational activities such as Swahili lessons, conservation education, and cultural exploration through excursions to nearby attractions, including Thompson Falls, Mary’s Village, and tea and coffee farms. It takes approximately four hours to drive from the farm to Nairobi.
Learn more about the programme here.
2. Family Volunteer Programme: Teaching Project in Sri Lanka
Galle is a delightful coastal town situated on the south coast of Sri Lanka where the fusion of modern life and colonial heritage is simply stunning. The town’s historic charm contrasts starkly with the modern city, making it the perfect place to start your impactful travel in Asia!
Volunteers commit and engage with early childhood centers in Sri Lanka. These improvised nurseries provide play and relaxation spaces for children aged 3 to 6 for a few hours each day.
Learn more about the programme here.
3. Family Volunteer Programme: Marine Conservation in Australia
The Marine Conservation Programme offers an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to make a meaningful impact on the Great Barrier Reef.
Whether you have little or moderate reef experience, this programme welcomes you to join a team of passionate marine biologists and professionals.
By assisting with the “Eye on the Reef: Rapid Monitoring” programme, you will contribute to the long-term protection of the reef and gather valuable data for monitoring its health indicators. Alongside the conservation work, this programme ensures a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
As a volunteer, you will dive into the stunning waters of the Great Barrier Reef, partake in thrilling adventures, and create unforgettable memories.
Family volunteering opportunities are available, allowing families to engage in this unique adventure together. Join us in Cairns for an extraordinary combination of volunteering and adventure like no other, leaving you with a sense of self-fulfillment and the knowledge that you’ve positively impacted one of the world’s most precious natural wonders.
Discover more family programmes on the Freepackers website! Click here
What’s Next?
There are so many opportunities out there for families like yours wanting to participate in sustainable volunteering. From countries like:
There are endless places to choose from. Not only will you be immersing yourself in a new culture and activities, but you will be learning and growing together. So, why not choose our family volunteering opportunities with Freepackers?
Do you have any questions?
Where can a family volunteer in Europe?
Families can volunteer in a variety of meaningful programmes. Many popular destinations are spread across Europe, including Spain, Portugal, and Italy. With opportunities in many fields such as marine and environmental conservation, community support, and cultural exchange programmes, programmes are designed to be family-friendly, offering safe and engaging activities for both adults and children.
Where can my family volunteer for the holidays?
Taking your holiday to volunteer is a great way to spend and make meaningful memories, all while giving back to communities. Families can enjoy destinations around the globe like Costa Rica, Italy, and Thailand. These opportunities typically focus on community development, wildlife care, and environmental conservation, allowing families to celebrate the holidays in an impactful way.
Frequently asked questions
What is family volunteering?
Family volunteering is a meaningful travel experience where parents, children, and relatives volunteer together while exploring a new destination. These programs allow families to give back, learn about different cultures, and create lasting memories together. Programs are usually designed to be safe and suitable for different ages, making them a great way for families to combine travel, education, and positive impact.
Why volunteer as a family?
Volunteering as a family creates shared experiences beyond traditional travel. For example, it teaches children empathy, cultural awareness, and global responsibility, makes a positive impact on communities and environments, and creates lasting memories with purpose.
Where can a family volunteer in Europe?
Families can volunteer in a variety of meaningful programs. Many popular destinations are spread across Europe, including Spain, Portugal, and Italy. With opportunities in many fields such as Marine and environmental conservation, community support, and cultural exchange programs, programs are designed to be family-friendly, offering safe and engaging activities for both adults and children.
