As an industrialized nation, Ireland might not be the first place that comes to mind when deciding on a volunteer destination. However, the skills and work needed in Galway are important for maintaining its reputation for a clean and safe environment. Although the environment and conservation efforts might come to mind when thinking of Galway, there are many diverse needs within the community that reach beyond the environment.

Popular causes and projects. Volunteer work in Galway includes community development, conservation and environment, education and museums, youth or elderly work, and homelessness. Volunteers are needed in a variety of capacities throughout Galway. For those desiring to engage in environmental efforts, there are opportunities from working on sustainable farming, planting trees, habitat clean-up, as well as working with animals. Both short and long term programs are available, dependent on the preference of the volunteer and program type.

Short term volunteer programs. Opportunities in Galway are abundant because many organizations seek people looking to assist with events that help the community. This can be ideal for volunteers looking for integrating volunteer work into travel. Volunteer projects are also available for 2-4 weeks and benefit volunteers by providing accommodations, partnering with community organizations, and are a great way to meet people from across the world.

Long term volunteer programs. Longer volunteer work in Galway is also readily available for those looking to spend more time integrating into Irish culture. Taking a TEFL course in Galway can give you an experience of living abroad while gaining TEFL qualifications that can take you across the world. Service learning can provide both short or long term opportunities to volunteer while learning about societal issues relevant to Galway and Ireland as a whole. For example, littering in Galway was recently discussed as a critical environmental issue for the city. Volunteers can get their hands dirty by directly participating in litter clean-up. For volunteers with more time, connecting with organizations aimed to change societal patterns and opinions on littering could be a valuable project to join.