Volunteer Programs in North America

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90 Volunteer Programs in North America
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.68
825
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 Conservatio
See All 10 ProgramsAdelante Abroad
4.44
9
Make a positive impact in Mexico! Adelante Abroad offers affordable volunteer programs in a wide variety of fields and sectors in Oaxaca, Mexico. Put your time towards helping those in need. Volunteer in sectors such as ecology, social work, arts, or NGO, just to name a few. Oaxaca is one of the mo
See All 5 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
4.76
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GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and med
See All 5 ProgramsAll Hands & Hearts
4.25
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All Hands and Hearts provides community-inspired, volunteer-powered disaster relief. With the frequency and intensity of disasters on the rise around the globe, there's an urgent need for a more thoughtful approach to how we respond and help impacted communities recover. When a disaster strikes, Al
See All 2 ProgramsLove Volunteers
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At the heart of this program is the belief that every child has the right to education, thus supporting the right of indigenous youth to a culturally appropriate education. It was created to provide impoverished children in Oaxaca with a solid education and ensure their well-being with additional re
See All 7 ProgramsPacific Discovery
4.71
24
Journey through Hawaii, Fiji, and New Zealand on a 10-week adventure that blends exploration, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Surf volcanic coastlines, hike through lush rainforests, and volunteer on conservation projects that protect Polynesian ecosystems and honor Indigenous traditions.
See All 5 Programs4.29
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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 g
See All 4 ProgramsChild Family Health International
4.56
9
Program formerly known as "Cultural Crossroads in Health in Oaxaca, Mexico." Oaxaca, where CFHI students can explore a different culture and way of life while learning about the region's healthcare system through clinical rotations, is truly a crossroads where different cultures and healthcare prac
See All 5 ProgramsGIVE Volunteers Growth International Volunteer Excursions
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Travel to Hawai’i with GIVE and explore stunning waterfalls, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests on the Big Island. Our projects focus on giving back to the ‘Aina (land) and Moana (sea) through forest restoration, marine conservation, and regenerative farming projects. Work with local nonprofits
Rustic Pathways
5
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Explore diverse travel experiences in the USA! Rustic Pathways’ USA programs are designed to offer students impactful and adventurous experiences close to home. From immersing yourself in vibrant local cultures to engaging in meaningful community service, these programs are perfect for developing le
Travel For Teens
4.5
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Alaska is known as the last frontier, the land of the midnight sun, and the place where your life will change! This program combines the breathtaking beauty of Alaska, meaningful service work, and adventures that will have the whole family wishing they could come! You’ll visit Homer, one of Alaska’s
See All 2 ProgramsPutney Student Travel
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Experience Hawai‘i’s unparalleled biodiversity, volcanic landscapes, and deep cultural heritage on a hands-on service program across the Big Island and Maui. Work alongside local nonprofits and Native Hawaiian elders to restore fragile ecosystems, support cultural revitalization efforts, and learn t
See All 2 ProgramsWorld Unite!
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Experience impactful volunteering in one of the various sectors through our USA homestay program. Immerse yourself in American life, contribute to local communities, and gain invaluable cross-cultural understanding. You will live with an American host family while volunteering 25-35 hours/week with
Institute for Global Studies
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This internship provides fieldwork experience in a Latin American healthcare setting. Interns should have taken upper-level courses in their field and have an intermediate level of Spanish. This program will develop language skills and medical vocabulary and will provide insight into the cultural si
Volunteers For Peace
4.56
36
Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best w
4.33
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Have you completed accredited certification in teaching English as a second language? Then, this position is a good fit for you! At Heslington Language Program (Help!), we believe that students effectively learn a foreign language through total immersion. Thus, in this paid ESL role, you don’t deli
4.67
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This program is an immersive conservation experience in the remote wilderness of British Columbia, combining wildlife research, horseback fieldwork, and practical self-sufficiency training within a working ranch-based community environment. All participants begin with a wilderness horseback and gui
Globe Aware
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The objective of the Camino del Mayab is to generate direct benefits for the people of the communities making up this cultural reserve. The main point is to foster sustainable tourism in these areas so women, men, and young people may have opportunities for growth in guidance services, food, lodging
4.5
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Join a life-changing Volunteer Build Week with Global Impact Homes and help construct homes for those in need. We currently offer Impact Builds in several destinations, including Puducherry, India; Zihuatanejo, Mexico; Granada, Nicaragua; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As a volunteer, you’ll participa
See All 2 ProgramsProjects Abroad
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Mexico is a vibrant destination where ancient history meets modern energy, offering a truly unique setting for cultural immersion. Whether you’re on a gap year, a career break, or a summer adventure, our programs invite you to become part of a community that blends Spanish, Mesoamerican, and contemp
See All 2 ProgramsDiscover Corps
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On this Discover Corps Vacation with Purpose, we will venture across the famed Kenai Peninsula to witness the epic beauty of the coast, mountains, and people of Alaska. Along the way, we will take you to leading organizations and introduce you to some of the most dedicated individuals working to pro
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Cross Exchange is the Christian alternative to secular work-exchange platforms like Workaway and Worldpackers. Christian hosts give travelers room and board. Travelers give an agreed amount of help back: yard work, repairs, childcare, church or community projects. No money changes hands. A short-te
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Travel to Oaxaca—Mexico's artistic, culinary, and cultural capital, for this Global Citizen Adventure program! You will volunteer with a women's cooperative to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) 1 - No Poverty, 4 - Quality Education, and 8 - Decent Work and Economic Gr
See All 2 ProgramsNatucate
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Travel to Canada, where you'll become part of a dedicated team of animal welfare activists and help care for formerly farm horses and other animals on a beautiful ranch in Alberta. After you arrive at Calgary International Airport, you are picked up and taken to a horse ranch about 1.5 hours away
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CAYE is a registered youth charitable organization in Mzuzu, Malawi. Established in 2014, CAYE works in the Northern Region and parts of the Central Region to empower young people, women, and small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development. CAYE focuses on yo
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Volunteer abroad in Canada and become part of our multicultural team at Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Our 460 acres of natural habitat includes buildings and enclosures, where we rehabilitate rescued wildlife animals until their release. As an Animal Care Volunteer, you will take on varied dutie
The National Registration Center for Study Abroad
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The study program includes 20 hours per week of Spanish lessons. Participants will be grouped depending on their current level of Spanish. These 50-minute classes will be based on the four language skills: listening, grammar, oral, and written comprehension. After the minimum four-week study pro
Fundación Aldeas De Paz - Peace Villages Foundation
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This exciting program is located in Malinalco, located only 50 km southwest of Mexico City, the capital. Because of its colonial character, it is one of the Pueblos Mágicos (Magic towns). Aldeas de Paz has established a collaboration with a grassroots NGO, one of the most prestigious civil socie
See All 3 Programs0
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Join Operation Paws for Homes (OPH) to make a significant impact on the lives of rescued dogs and cats. Volunteers support a range of activities, from adoption coordination and event support to fostering and fundraising. This program is perfect for individuals passionate about animal welfare and com
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Support animal welfare remotely with the Antonio Haghenbeck y de la Lama Foundation, based in Mexico. This volunteer opportunity is perfect for those who have a passion for making a difference and possess skills in communication, design, marketing, or translation. Our foundation is dedicated to resc
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Join Paws With A Cause as a group volunteer to support their mission of providing assistance dogs to individuals with disabilities. Groups can engage in a variety of projects such as constructing equipment, assisting with cleaning, office work, and creating enrichment opportunities for dogs. This pr
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The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation engages communities and partners across the United States to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources within the National Marine Sanctuary System. Through its volunteering program, the Foundation offers opportunities to contribute to conservati
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Join Marine Life Studies (MLS) to support marine wildlife research, conservation, and education. Volunteers play a crucial role in various programs including animal care, research, education, and outreach initiatives. Volunteers receive comprehensive training in marine research techniques, animal
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Become an ASPCA Advocacy Volunteer to help improve laws for animals and mobilize your community. Volunteers work behind the scenes to lobby for animal-friendly legislation, engage in public policy, and support the ASPCA’s mission to protect animals. This program is perfect for those passionate about
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Experience a rewarding and team-building volunteer opportunity at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Located in the stunning red rock canyons of southern Utah, the sanctuary is home to up to 1,600 animals. Volunteers support various projects essential for maintaining the sanctuary grounds and ensuring t
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Join the National Marine Life Center (NMLC) to support the rehabilitation and release of stranded marine mammals and sea turtles. Volunteers are essential to the success of our mission, contributing to animal care, education, administration, fundraising, and facility maintenance. Volunteers gain
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Join the Humane Society of the United States as a Humane Policy Volunteer Leader to advance crucial federal, state, and local animal protection legislation. Volunteers build professional relationships with legislators, submit comments on regulations, and mobilize their communities to advocate for an
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Join The Grey Muzzle Organization in their mission to support senior dogs through volunteer opportunities. Volunteers play a crucial role in enhancing the lives of elderly dogs, providing them with the care and support they need. This program is ideal for dog lovers who want to make a meaningful imp
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Join the Hawai'i Marine Animal Response (HMAR) team to protect and preserve Hawaii's marine wildlife. Our volunteers play a crucial role in various programs, including field support, rescue and stranding response, animal care, marine debris removal, and operations support. Each program offers unique
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Join Wags and Walks in their mission to rescue and rehome dogs in need. Volunteers play a vital role in various aspects of the organization, from direct animal care to supporting events and administrative tasks. This program is perfect for animal lovers who want to make a meaningful impact on the li
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Marine Rescue Rockingham (VMRS) invites dedicated individuals to join their team to enhance maritime safety and provide vital emergency response services. Volunteers can engage in various roles including radio operations, rescue missions, and equipment maintenance. Marine Rescue Rockingham is staffe
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The Animal Foundation in Las Vegas offers a variety of rewarding volunteer opportunities to help save and improve the lives of lost and homeless animals. Volunteers can participate in numerous tasks, such as walking dogs, cleaning kennels, socializing timid animals, and assisting with events. The fo
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Are you planning a trip to Hawaii and looking for a meaningful way to contribute to the local community during your visit? The Institute for Human Services (IHS) welcomes travelers to join us in our mission to provide tailored solutions for those in crisis and empower homeless individuals toward gre
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Barb's Dog Rescue, located in Rocky Point, Mexico, is a sanctuary for street dogs in dire need of care and attention. Volunteers play a crucial role in providing the love and support these dogs need to thrive. If you’re visiting Mexico, spending time to volunteer with us would be greatly appreciated
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Animal Assisted Happiness (AAH) operates entirely with the help of volunteers and is actively seeking youth and adult volunteers. If you have a passion for youth and animals, there's something for you to do. From caring for and socializing our animals to assisting youth in interacting with them, mai
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Help make a difference in the lives of rescue animals with The Bond Between's volunteer program in the USA. As a volunteer, you will support the organization in providing care, love, and rehabilitation for animals in need. The program offers a hands-on experience that allows you to contribute direct
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Volunteering at Pasitos de Luz means making a real difference in the lives of children with disabilities. This program offers a unique opportunity to support families in need while creating meaningful connections. Volunteers assist in various activities, from daily caregiving to organizing special e
A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in North America
Locations
Going from north to south, locations begin with Canada. The so called “Great White North” is the world’s second largest country by total area and has a huge amount of land that is unpopulated by humans. From mighty mountain ranges to sweeping arctic tundras, those who volunteer in Canada will find themselves in one of the most naturally beautiful regions in the world. Canada also has one of the highest happiness ratings of any country, and you will find locals to be overwhelmingly hospitable and friendly to international volunteers.
Next is the United States. Supposedly the most powerful country in the world, the U.S. has a tremendous amount of ethnic and cultural diversity within, more so than any other nation on earth. A truly fascinating place to visit for those who have never been, volunteering abroad in the United States will give you an insider’s perspective of the world’s superpower so often read about in the news. You will find a country fraught with beauty and ugliness, success stories and failures, and a large subset of communities that can benefit from the helping hand of a volunteer.
Finally, there is Mexico in the south. The least economically developed of the three, Mexico is a historically fascinating and culturally rich Latin American country which offers abounding opportunities for international volunteers to make a positive impact on local communities. The Mexican people are fun and unceasingly hospitable, and volunteering abroad in Mexico will give volunteers insight into a much different flavor of North America than its two neighbors.
Projects & Placements
It is possible to find virtually any type of volunteer placement in all three of these countries, so we’ll just throw out a few of the most popular choices to get you moving in the right direction.
Since Canada has so much untapped wilderness, volunteers from around the world are beckoned to its lands to help out with environmental preservation and wildlife protection. Volunteering in Canada working with indigenous species, environmental cleanups, and campaigns spreading awareness are all common placements in these areas.
In the United States, volunteering in urban communities that are underserved and overlooked can make a huge impact on the lives of those less fortunate. Whether working at a homeless shelter or community center, in education or healthcare, volunteer work in the U.S. helps soften the effects of inequality that plagues some American cities.
In Mexico, poverty takes on a different form, but is also quite a widespread problem largely because of government corruption and gang violence. Those who volunteer in Mexico can make a difference working hands on through social advocacy, human rights, and other forms of community building.
The possibilities are really quite endless for volunteering in North America, and there are pressing needs in all sorts of communities. Research carefully which volunteer programs and which locations seem like the perfect fit, and start applying!
Costs & Affordability
Costs vary pretty significantly within the United States, Mexico, and Canada. In all three countries the big cities will be more expensive than rural areas though, of course, so keep this in mind when deciding which location you would like to volunteer in. Mexico is significantly cheaper than the United States and Canada because many aspects of its economy are underdeveloped. Within Canada and the U.S, globally oriented cities, such as New York, San Francisco, and Vancouver will be the most expensive places to volunteer.
The fees for volunteer programs in North America can also prove quite expensive. Fundraising on your own is a good way to minimize the hit on your wallet. There are a large amount of affordable programs out there though, so again research thoroughly to find one that fits within your budget!
Accommodation & Visas
Homestays are very popular housing options for those who volunteer in North America for a short amount of time. This is a great opportunity to be exposed intimately to the local culture, while forming a lasting bond with your host family. Individual or group housing is another popular form of accommodation, and often volunteer programs will set volunteers up with an apartment or flat. Living conditions obviously vary depending on where you volunteer abroad in North America, but in all three countries you can expect to be made comfortable.
Visa policies differ for Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, and also differ by length of program and country of origin. The United States typically presents the most arduous visa process, while Canada and Mexico are more lax in this respect. Consult your volunteer program provider about what visa you will need to volunteer and the proper way to go about obtaining it.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
North America is a continent of tremendous cultural, economic, and environmental diversity. In any of these three countries you will get a taste of the “New World” and come to understand how the region has had such a profound impact on the rest of the planet. By volunteering abroad in North America, you can rest assured that you will be working to solve some of the pressing problems within these countries while enjoying your stay as a foreign visitor. North America is the land of opportunity, so come see what it’s all about!
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