Rome Volunteering

Feel like saving the world this week? Volunteering can be a powerful and fulfilling experience, especially when combined with the thrill of traveling in a new place. Italy lacks the history of a philanthropic tradition that other countries, such as the United States, have enjoyed; volunteer opportunities can be difficult to find. Most Italian volunteer programs focus on the more impoverished regions to the south of the peninsula, or those devastated by the recent Abruzzo earthquake. However, a current focus on issues like immigration and healthcare have resulted in a new push for public service outlets, especially for young people. And, of course, the prevalence of Catholicism provides some opportunities for social work.

Most people who volunteer in Rome do so on a short-term basis at organizations that make use of drop-in or once-a-week volunteers. For better or worse, volunteer work (like any kind of work in Rome) can be difficult to come by unless you have contacts. Some of the more popular sites for tourists might be looking for part-time docents to give tours in English or other foreign languages. You’ll get better results if you go through their site offices directly, instead of through a placement agency. The best way to find opportunities that match your interests and schedule may be to check with community magazines and bulletin boards, such as the ones listed in the section below. 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 for 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.

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.

Ecotourism

Italy’s expansive coastline and mild mainland environment play host to thousands of visitors annually. Tourists and locals alike are able to play a role in preserving the environment that has made ...more

Youth And The Community

Community-based projects are among the most rewarding volunteer experiences. Programs listed below promote interactive humanitarian work through English language programs and projects aimed at assisting ...more

Art, Culture, And Restoration

Italy’s rich cultural heritage, which dates back to ancient Rome, is increasingly in danger of crumbling or being overrun by modern life. Volunteers looking for a labor-intensive way to engage with ...more