Spain Volunteering

Feel like saving the world this week? Volunteering can be a powerful and fulfilling experience, especially when combined with the thrill of traveling. While Spain, Portugal, and Morocco face very different realities, key problems unite them. Pressing issues like immigration, the environment, poverty, and women’s rights make volunteering in these countries a compelling option.

Most people who volunteer do so on a short-term basis at organizations that make use of drop-in or once-a-week volunteers. The best way to find opportunities that match your interests and schedule may be to check with local or national volunteer centers. In Spain, contact the Plataforma del Voluntariado de España, C. Fuentes, 10, Madrid (☎902 12 05 12) in order to best match your interests to local needs. In Portugal, the Plataforma Portuguesa das ONGD, Rua da Madalena, 91, Lisboa (☎218 87 22 39) is a central coordinator of NGOs and volunteer opportunities. As always, read up before heading out.

Those looking for longer, more intensive volunteer opportunities usually choose to go through a parent organization that takes care of logistical details and often provides a group environment and support system—for a fee. There are two main types of organizations—religious and secular—although there are rarely restrictions on participation in either. Websites like www.volunteerabroad.com, www.servenet.org, and www.idealist.org allow you to search for volunteer openings both in your country and abroad. The following listings are just a starting point; local opportunities are endless.

I Have To Pay To Volunteer? Many volunteers are surprised to learn that some organizations require large fees or “donations,” but don’t go calling them scams just yet. While such fees may seem ridiculous at first, they often keep the organization afloat, covering airfare, room, board, and administrative expenses for the volunteers. (Other organizations must rely on private donations and government subsidies.) If you’re concerned about how a program spends its fees, request an annual report or finance account. A reputable organization won’t refuse to inform you of how volunteer money is spent. Pay-to-volunteer programs might be a good idea for young travelers who are looking for more support and structure (such as pre-arranged transportation and housing) or anyone who would rather not deal with the uncertainty of creating a volunteer experience from scratch.

Social Activism

Here’s your chance to work toward goals of justice and equity, whether in Spain, Portugal, or Morocco. A diverse network of social organizations addresses all manner of problems, from homelessness ...more

Immigration

Today, Spain absorbs more immigrants than any other country in the European Union. Over the past decade, the number of immigrants has risen from 2 percent of the Spanish population to more than 10 percent ...more

Environmental Work

Development, abuse of natural resources, and rampant tourism all threaten the land and water of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Many tourists already make an effort to choose the most environmentally friendly ...more

For The Undecided Altruist

The possibilities for meaningful volunteer work in Spain, Portugal, or Morocco are endless. These volunteer agencies are great resources; explore their options and find an opportunity that excites you ...more