Grassroots Organization Volunteering in India

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Join our Summer Volunteering Program in Jaipur, the Pink City of India. We welcome participants who are eager to volunteer abroad and gain a meaningful travel experience. This is an ideal opportunity for college students looking to broaden their global views. Stay for three weeks to work on initiatives in a range of areas: Child Care, Women Empowerment, and Elephants. The program also includes a Golden Triangle Tour, taking you to places like Jaipur, Agra-Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Abhaneri, Sikandra, and Delhi. The project runs every year, from May to August. You will live with an Indian host family who will introduce you to their culture and traditions as well as prepare you purely vegetarian food. During the tour, you will stay in a hotel in Agra and Delhi.

Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to help volunteers and local communities around the world. We don't have huge overheads - no company cars, no downtown office - we're just volunteers who knew we could do a better job. Secondly, we work with local organisations wherever we can to keep administration costs to a minimum and also to feed as much money and skills into the local communities where we operate. All of Love Volunteers partner organisations have been fully vetted to ensure that, not only does a genuine need for assistance exist, but that the environments that we place our volunteers are safe and of high quality. Choose from one or more of our 200+ amazing community-based programs in 37 developing countries around the world. Every program has been personally visited by one of our dedicated staff members and is regularly audited to ensure it meets our high standards in terms of safety, sustainability, and local impact.

Our Volunteer programs in India are based in Kerala, Southern India. Despite a fast growing economy owing to the Dot Com revolution in the late 90’s, a large portion of the Indian people are impoverished and in need of basic human necessities. Access to clean water, sanitation facilities and quality health facilities still remain a distant dream for many – All this coupled with issues concerning women’s rights and education offers a great volunteer opportunities for you to truly make a difference in the upliftment of the country and its people. Volunteering Journeys Volunteer Programs in India are based in South India’s tropical gem Kerala, famously known as ‘God’s own Country’. The best part is mingling with an eclectic a mix of locals living in harmony mainly Catholics, Muslims and Hindus, giving you a true flavour of the myriad of culture, religion and life in India. Our most popular program is our women's empowerment and teaching children program. If you are pre-med or medical student you can also join our medical work experience. We encourage you to join us in India as this will truly be an experience of a lifetime.

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

The Banyan Impact Fellowship (formerly AIF William J. Clinton Fellowship) is a fully funded 10-months program in India. By facilitating exchange and collaboration between young professionals from India and the U.S., the program aims to shape the next generation of leaders committed to positive and sustainable change and creating a lasting US-India relationship. Fellows serve with civil society organizations in various thematic areas including environment protection, climate justice, public health, education, livelihoods, arts, culture, and more. Fellows receive a stipend, health insurance, language training, mentoring, professional development, international networking and career opportunities. Fellows benefit from in person conferences, and they engage in workshops, reflection exercises, and skill building activities. Apply by February 20, 2024.

India is the world’s largest democracy and is considered a newly industrialized country. Yet despite its large workforce and immense growth, India continues to face the hurdles of poverty, illiteracy, malnutrition, and inadequate public healthcare. Funds for health in India have long focused largely on medical services, reflected in a lack of modern public health regulations and delivery of services. Travel to Delhi, India, the second most populous city on the planet. Join NGOs working to implement social reforms and improve public health outcomes through educational campaigns and trainings with emphasis on the spread of HIV/AIDS in India, tuberculosis, and management of infectious diseases. Learn about key public health challenges such as low rates of immunization, poor sanitation and waste management, and unsafe drinking water. Understand the lingering impact of India’s caste system and challenges in implementing public health initiatives within a culturally and linguistically diverse population.

Come face-to-face with complex social structures, diverse religions and geographic regions, and the intersections where tradition and change collide. You will get the chance to engage with organizations working on regenerative solutions to climate change, connect to life in local communities through homestays, experience the spirituality of an Ashram, trek in the Himalayas, kayak through the backwaters, and sample the amazing regional cuisines as you share meals with our amazing partners and soon-to-be new friends. Throughout your journey, the people you meet and the places you stay will teach you about the region's complexities, widen your perspective, and help you gain insights to understand the world's interconnectedness. As you understand how one action impacts another and how the mighty Himalayas affect coastal communities downstream, you can start to explore your purpose and the role you want to play in a globally interconnected world. 2025: CLOSED Spring 2026: February 25 - May 6 Fall 2026: September 24 - December 5

Length: 4-6 months | Intakes: January 2026 Join the Global Leadership Programme, designed to provide you with hands-on experience supporting the work of an international development charity. We are looking for passionate graduates, who are keen to learn about global challenges, work with youth and define their own purpose. After an initial period of training, you will be placed in one of our overseas hubs as a Group Mentor and Project Implementor, you will be supporting our in-country team through coordinating group projects and supporting our project participants on their journey to becoming global citizens. Your days will be filled with exciting challenges and fulfilling experiences, including: 1. Coordinating and delivering impactful project activities with our local partners. 2. Embark on a leadership role as you guide your group of project participants through immersive and exciting cultural activities. 3. Engage your group in reflective discussions and interactive sessions to foster personal growth. 4. Reporting on the progress and success of all international project participants and community development project delivery activities.

In Rajasthan, girls from poor families often don't attend school. They have to help with housework, engage in labor, or assist their mothers with tending to their younger siblings. This is typically the case in communities far from the school, which would take some time to reach, thus forcing them to choose family duties instead. To cater to these less fortunate girls, a local NGO offers free education and vocational training to women and girls from disadvantaged backgrounds. The NGO is located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan's second-largest city, in the village of Setrawa in the Thar desert, some 100 km away. It primarily promotes women's empowerment, including educating children and women. At several empowerment centers in Jodhpur, girls and women aged 10 to 30 are taught reading and writing (Hindi and English), the basics of Mathematics, personality development, team building, and vocational skills such as sewing and embroidery.

Are you a Psychology or Mental Health student looking for a hands-on experience that will enhance your studies and career prospects? This unique opportunity is ideal for university students, graduates, and master's students seeking field experience, research opportunities, and professional development in a global setting. Our volunteer programmes provide essential, practical experience while allowing you to make a real impact in developing communities in India’s ‘pink city’! Gain experience under doctors and psychiatrists in the psychiatry and deaddiction units of a hospital, work with children on their mentoring and wellbeing, and head into the community to work on community development and women's empowerment — all while immersing yourself in Indian culture!

India, with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and diverse landscapes, is a country that captivates and inspires. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh and the royal palaces of Jaipur, every corner of India tells a story. However, beyond its beauty lies a reality where millions of people and animals need support, and that’s where volunteers like you can make a real difference. At Volunteer Quest India (VQI), we believe that volunteering is not just about giving—it's about learning, growing, and creating meaningful connections. Our programs are designed to offer structured and impactful opportunities for international volunteers to contribute to youth education, animal welfare, wellness, and conservation. Whether you’re passionate about teaching, working with animals, environmental conservation, or community development, our projects provide a unique chance to immerse yourself in local communities while making a tangible impact. Join us and discover how volunteering in India can transform not only the lives of others—but your own as well.

Embark on a meaningful volunteer journey in India—one of the most vibrant and culturally rich countries in the world. Known for its diversity and contrasts, India offers a life-changing experience that both challenges and inspires. Whether you're drawn to the energy of cities or the calm of the mountains, there’s something here for everyone. Volunteer roles include teaching, women’s empowerment, construction, medical support, elderly care, slum outreach, and working in Buddhist monasteries. No matter your background, your time and effort can create lasting impact. All programs include airport pickup, accommodation, meals, in-country transport to project sites, and 24/7 local support. Choose from incredible destinations like Udaipur, Goa, Bodhgaya, and Darjeeling—or join a road trip that showcases the highlights of India while you volunteer. Make a real difference while discovering one of the world’s most unforgettable destinations.

A Journey of Adventure, Purpose, and Connection — Discover Nepal & India Beyond the Ordinary Journey into the heart of Nepal and India on a 10-week adventure designed for growth, connection, and purpose. Trek Himalayan trails, practice meditation in mountain monasteries, explore the vibrant energy of Indian markets, and volunteer alongside local communities. This is more than sightseeing—you’ll live the culture, learn from local leaders, and contribute to meaningful projects. Every moment is built for transformation: cultural immersion for the curious, hands-on service for the changemaker, guided reflection for the gap year adventurer, and skill-building for those preparing for what’s next. With experienced instructors and a supportive group, you’ll gain confidence, resilience, and clarity about your path ahead. Whether you’re seeking a reset before college, an alternative to traditional study abroad, a sustainable way to travel, or a deeper connection with global communities, this journey helps you grow into who you’re becoming—while seeing the world through new eyes. Reach out to learn more!

We encourage individuals to apply as volunteers and make a meaningful contribution to international youth exchange and community development through medium and long-term placements ranging from 4 to 24 weeks. These placements involve working in ongoing local humanitarian projects located in rural or semi-urban areas. They provide an excellent opportunity to gain a deep understanding of grassroots situations and collaborate with marginalized communities. The pace of work in these placements is slower, which presents a constant challenge in managing volunteer expectations. It's important to recognize that significant global change cannot be achieved in such a short period. Nevertheless, the placement offers a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment by making a tangible impact on a cause with visible results. We offer flexibility for volunteers to join our programs, but in order to ensure effective coordination of project activities, we request volunteers to join on the first Monday of each month. Upon arrival, an initial orientation will be provided at the RUCHI office, where the desired project outcomes, as well as the volunteer's role and responsibilities, will be shared.

Lakshyam has launched a volunteering and internship program in India, offering an opportunity for individuals who wish to make a difference in society to join our team. During your association with us, we promise a comprehensive experience that includes meaningful interactions with the beneficiaries we serve. We are excited to have individuals who are willing to contribute their time, skills, knowledge, and, most importantly, their passion for creating positive change in society. Lakshyam offers a wide range of tasks for volunteers to choose from. You may select one or more areas of interest: - Media & Communications - Performing Arts - Academics - Indoors and Outdoors Sports - Data Management and Research - Administrative Work & Business Development. - Building and Construction Join us at Lakshyam and together, let's create a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

OSAAT is seeking middle and high school students interested in utilizing their skills in art, leadership, public speaking, and digital technology to contribute to their initiatives during summer or winter breaks in India. This is a unique opportunity for students to make a meaningful impact while experiencing a culturally rich environment. By volunteering with OSAAT, students can actively assist in the organization's efforts to rebuild school infrastructure and empower children in rural areas. Whether through artistic endeavors, showcasing leadership abilities, delivering public speeches, or utilizing digital tools, students can play a vital role in supporting OSAAT's mission. This experience not only allows students to develop their skills but also fosters a deeper understanding of global issues and the transformative power of education. Join OSAAT in making a difference and create unforgettable memories in India during your summer or winter break.

Experience India Beyond the Surface This unique volunteer opportunity with HEEALS invites you to dive deep into the vibrant cultural fabric of India while making a tangible difference in underserved communities. You'll explore how India's rich heritage and evolving social dynamics influence development, education, health, and gender roles, primarily through the lens of our WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene) projects. Designed for individuals who seek more than travel, this program blends hands-on community engagement with meaningful cross-cultural experiences. Whether you're walking through village lanes, attending local festivals, or collaborating with schoolchildren, you’ll gain insights that no classroom can offer. Location: Gurgaon, India (with rural and urban outreach) Program Focus: Culture, Community Development, WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene), Education, Gender Equality Duration: Flexible (2 weeks to 6 months) Ideal for: Students, recent graduates, professionals, and global citizens seeking immersive cultural learning and social impact.