Volunteer Programs in Sierra Leone


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See All 2 ProgramsA Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Sierra Leone
Locations
The geography, infrastructure, and societal makeup of Sierra Leone is incomparable to most Western nations. Towns and roads are typically irregular, and each community tends to be sporadically developed around its own markets, restaurants, and activities, which in turn leads to more close-knit communities. However, that is not to say there are not distinct locations in which to volunteer in Sierra Leone. The following two cities are the most common places to volunteer abroad in Sierra Leone:
Freetown is the capital of Sierra Leone. Known for its color and energy, this city is unquestionably rough around the edges, but makes up for it with natural beauty. With white sand and mountain ranges all around, Freetown is home to a vast majority of volunteer placements in Sierra Leone. As a developing city, there are many specific populations of people in need of volunteer support, including orphans and those suffering from AIDS. While Freetown is more established than other surrounding towns, volunteers should be no means expect to see skyscrapers or luxurious malls within the city’s limits.
The town of Makeni is known for its historic football club, and consequently, a prevalent soccer culture. The most popular volunteer placement in Makeni takes place at the town’s School for the Deaf, but there is also a significant handicraft market and museum worth exploring. Makeni varies from other locations for volunteer in Sierra Leone in that there are multiple hotels, and most more luxurious than those available in other parts of the country. Most volunteer placements in Makeni revolve around education and medicine.
Volunteer Programs in Sierra Leone
Most volunteer work in Sierra Leone is focused on serving underprivileged populations, as the country continues to struggle with civil violence, infrastructure issues, and poverty. Those who volunteer in Sierra Leone will no doubt learn a lesson in empathy as they are able to reach out to underprivileged and underserved populations and provide vital support.
Orphanages. Sierra Leone has a sizeable population of vulnerable youth and children. Therefore, there is a critical need for volunteers to work alongside these precious children in a number of capacities. Volunteers can work directly in orphanages helping staff to meet the children’s most immediate needs, but responsibilities could also include marketing, administrative, education related tasks. For example, volunteers might have the chance to work together to raise funds to support the orphanages and empower the children through special programs.
Teaching. Sierra Leone is home to a range of academic institutions, which provide many opportunities for foreigners to volunteer their time and skills. Those with a love for children and a desire to see the fruits of their work daily will likely find volunteer teaching in Sierra Leone to be both challenging and rewarding. Most volunteers will spend their time teaching local students a range of subjects, such as math and art. In addition to teaching, volunteers will usually be able to plan extracurricular activities for students.
Health. Unfortunately, Sierra Leone has the highest death rate in the world. Putting war mortality aside, malaria is the largest cause of death in Sierra Leone. With a severe lack of general practitioners, the average citizen often goes without proper medical care. Individuals with backgrounds in global health, medicine, and international development, among others, should not pass up the opportunity to volunteer in Sierra Leone; they will be able to help locals who lack appropriate health education and access to medical advice and treatment. Volunteers interested in reproductive health and HIV/AIDS prevention will also find volunteering in Sierra Leone to be particularly beneficial.
Daily life in Sierra Leone varies greatly from life in the Western world. Although the beautifully simple way of life in Sierra Leone may be very foreign to incoming volunteers, this only means that volunteers will have even more to learn. The local people put a strong emphasis on etiquette and manners. Therefore, to ensure positive relationships, it is crucial that volunteers treat all people in a polite, respectful fashion.
Costs & Affordability
It may be called "Freetown," but volunteering in Sierra Leone is hardly free! Although, your daily cost of living as a volunteer in Sierra Leone will be considerably lower than what you're likely accumulate back home. Yet, Sierra Leone is not the cheapest destination for volunteering abroad on the planet. Average costs of goods and services are actually higher than what you'd find in Buenos Aires, Beirut, and Rome!
Check with your program provider to learn what is included in your volunteer program costs. Oftentimes, meals and accommodations are provided, leaving your out-of-pocket expenses to cover transportation, medical bills, extra popsicles, and souvenirs. Your overall costs will also be determined by the lifestyle you choose to adopt while volunteering in Sierra Leone. It's easier to forego western amenities and comforts while volunteering in rural Sierra Leone, but we won't blame you for trading in your Krio for more familiar fare every now and then.
Accommodation & Visas
Accommodations offered to volunteers in Sierra Leone are diverse. However, volunteers should keep in mind that the average home in Sierra Leone is made up of straw and clay, as opposed to the cement and steel more common in the Western world.
Long term volunteers are often placed in apartments, to allow them to feel more at home and live independently, but are sometimes required to coordinate their own housing. Shorter term volunteer programs in Sierra Leone will typically provide volunteers with group living arrangements, which allow volunteers to share a common community building that is in close proximity to their placement.
Homestays are also commonly offered by volunteer organizations in Sierra Leone. Homestays allow volunteers to experience the culture on a deeper level, develop more intimate relationships, and enhance their language skills at an accelerated rate. Although, all accommodation options provide volunteers with the opportunity to experience the local culture.
In order to obtain a visa to volunteer in Sierra Leone, one must begin the process multiple months in advance. However, getting a visa is rather effortless and inexpensive in comparison to many other countries. To begin the process, volunteers should visit their local Sierra Leonean embassy’s website for more detailed information and requirements. All volunteers should be prepared to submit their passports, processing fees, and proof of their volunteer program plans. Once in Sierra Leone, visa extensions will be possible through a notably simple process.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
Political Unrest. Sierra Leone is currently experiencing a state of relative stability and peace. However, many surrounding countries present ongoing threats, leading Sierra Leone to experience ripples of political unrest. International volunteers are highly advised to research the political state of the surrounding countries and the exact city where they will be volunteering in before arrival, in addition to creating an emergency plan.
Simplicity. Due to a number of factors, Sierra Leone has experienced economic uncertainty for decades. This trouble has resulted in a life of simplicity overall. For some volunteers cultural and lifestyle adjustment can be unsettling and difficult; however, living amongst these beautiful people will provide volunteers with many life lessons and opportunities for learning. Volunteers will walk away from volunteering in Sierra Leone as better stewards of their possessions and more able to live a highly conscientious lifestyle.
Disease. Sierra Leone is no stranger to disease, even the kind that put the entire global community in a flurry. While Sierra Leone has been officially declared Ebola-free, for some volunteers, the risk of disease outbreaks remains a particularly difficult pill to swallow. In this case, it is important for volunteers to have ongoing dialogue with their volunteer program provider or host organization to ensure they are aware of safety measures, evacuation plans, and general hygiene tips to mitigate the potential for contracting any diseases.
Impact. Locals, cheerfully referred to as Creole or Krio people, have limited resources and deal with many challenges. Therefore, volunteers can have a real impact on the lives of locals.
If you want to volunteer abroad somewhere truly in need of help, where you can make a real difference, look no further than volunteer programs in Sierra Leone.
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I would recommend to people who need Social Media detox!!
January 03, 2026by: Yusuf CelikProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
I enjoyed some of the activites , but not others. The rivre walk and the walk to the koppies was 10/10. No intrenet was challenging , so 7/10. Jane , Precious , Patrick and Lucas were 10/10. I woul recommend this project to anyone who needs a detox from Social media.
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New culture, new people, New Life. When we exchange our perspectives, ideas and plans to make a world better place for everyone. It's good to go different places it helps me view life in many directions
Mi vida en haiti
October 14, 2025by: Raul enrique Higuerey Montes - VenezuelaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
Hice 5 años en haiti, me se su idioma, se toda su cultura, me gustaría volver y apoyarlos en todas las dificultades que tienen, ya que ameritan mucha ayuda de todos nosotros, para ellos poder sobrevivir
Volunteer from Kenya
June 02, 2025by: Tabitha Maina - KenyaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
I would really like to volunteer. I am passionate about charity and showing kindness to the world. Please, give me a chance. Kindly provide Certificate of sponsorship too since I'm not able to provide for myself at the moment. Kindly put my request into consideration.
Time for what I like doing most and also my work
December 04, 2024by: Bakare Gbolahan - NigeriaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
This an increasingly popular way for individuals to make a meaningful impact in communities around the world. With numerous organizations offering volunteer programs, it's essential to review and research these opportunities to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. *Pros:* 1. *Cultural Immersion*: Living and working with local communities provides an immersive cultural experience. 2. *Skill Development*: Volunteers can develop new skills and gain experience in areas such as teaching, conservation, and community development. 3. *Networking Opportunities*: Volunteers can connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. 4. *Personal Growth*: Volunteering abroad can be a transformative experience, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. *Cons:* 1. *Cost*: Many volunteer programs come with a hefty price tag, which can be a barrier for some. 2. *Safety Concerns*: Volunteers may face safety risks, such as health concerns or political instability, depending on the destination. 3. *Cultural Differences*: Adapting to local customs and way of life can be challenging for some volunteers. 4. *Quality of Programs*: Some volunteer programs may lack structure, support, or meaningful work, leading to a disappointing experience. *Recommendations:* 1. *Research Thoroughly*: Investigate the organization, program, and destination to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. 2. *Read Reviews*: Look for reviews from past volunteers to gain insight into the program's quality and challenges. 3. *Choose a Reputable Organization*: Select an organization with a proven track record, transparent policies, and adequate support for volunteers. 4. *Prepare Yourself*: Culturally, emotionally, and physically prepare yourself for the experience to ensure a smooth transition. By being aware of the pros and cons, doing thorough research, and choosing a reputable organization, volunteers can have a safe, rewarding, and life-changing experience abroad.
Social worker
October 20, 2024by: Namutebi Hadijah Matovu - UgandaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
As a Social worker i often meet with clients to assess their needs, provide counseling, and develop individualized plans to address their challenges. This could involve sessions with individuals, families, or groups.

Do not hesitate! Best experience of my life!
March 16, 2021by: Silvia S. Terratiz - SpainProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
I probably had one of the best experiences of my life in Natuwa for a month, feeding the many animals that live there, taking care of them, discovering a different way of life than mine, more minimalist and peaceful. Rodolfo is an extremely understanding man who cares about the well-being of his voluntarios. We had the chance to do several extra activities outside the centre, such as snorkeling near to Isla Tortuga, or swimming at night with bioluminescent planktons, which were dazzling. The workteam is really friendly and allows you to feel integrated quickly and easily. However, you have to expect to work hard sometimes, for example planting trees, doing work to maintain the infrastructure, but this is only a part of the day. outside the centre
A wondrous experience
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The time I spent in Dubai, Oman and Abdul Dhabi, I have a wonderful and experiential Joy with the people and I was able to showcased my skills and the people explore my knowledge to their satisfaction Little details of my experience Dubai Falcon Ballroom Hotel which was so great. Even more perfect was the fact that they had thought of everything in advance, I didn’t need to remind them I needed a fresh bed shread in the room (which I did have to do twice at the local hotel I stayed in my country, more on this later) as they had already taken care of that prior to our arrival. The bed, oh the bed! It was dreamy in every way, the most comfortable place I’ve ever laid in, and the most restful sleep I had had in years, and sometimes teary nighttime awakenings. some things can’t be helped…oh, the joys of travelling with flight Emirate is spectacular. A night between those bed-sheets really restores and rebalances you. I had excellent views directly facing the Mall of the Emirate and part of the pool below (if you stretched your neck). Everything in the room was spotlessly clean and looked brand new. The desk was comfortable for planning my daily routes on our my map.
Self Challenge in Thailand
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August 8th, 2018, I went to Thailand for the highest skydiving constitution in Asian. At the time, when I put on heavy equipment, I was super nervous, so I paid hundreds percent concentration on training. All set down, I followed the coach to get on the helicopter and had a big swallow before taking off. On the way to five thousand inches high, my hand still stuck the edge of seat tightly. It's the real time when I hardly moved right to the open door, my foot suspended in the midair and smash wind make me hard to breathe. Without struggle, I was pushed to jump with closing eyes and opening mouth. Actually, I screamed loudly but heard nothing. The parachute opened in seconds successfully and everything went as well as training. When I stood steadily on the cloud, I touched the soft clouds, astonished by the beautiful view of Phuket Island---golden-green fields are surrounded by the sea blue, trail of the train intersect through the landscape, cars running on the roads are as tiny as ants moving foods. Swinging back to the ground, I was so proud of myself and at the same time, I was so excited about the astonishing views in the sky.
Giving my knowledge in health
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Surely a life experience
August 24, 2018by: Jennifer Heinen - BelgiumProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
Volunteer World gave me the opportunity to find a project that suited me. They have plenty of projects and there is something for everyone! You meet amazing people. You get to know the country and the culture through te locals. You connect immedeatly with the other volunteers and experience this amazing trip together. I'm already looking for my next experience with them.
Rich experience
May 27, 2018by: AMINE - MoroccoProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
Hey , I'm Amine , I would love top inform you that I have had a good experience in voluntary work that's why I want to share it with you by helping people in need . In fact , I have made great relations when I was teaching either children or adults , it was really a good time when dealing and socializing , I really learnt many thing from such experience and thus could cope with many problems and situations . I also learnt many things when curing my father for about 16 years , he is in special need and I have learnt numerous things and even got more open with wide heart when dealing with sick people , indeed , I'm that kind person by nature who loves to offer something to others
I really enjoyed my trip
January 07, 2018by: Kaempf - FranceProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
During three months, I’m volonteer in community project for GVI in Silana Village and I really enjoyed my trip. It’s very likely to help the NGO and the villagers in the waste management and the recycling activities. Gvi permits to me, to discover a new lifestyle with my fijian familly in Silana.
Quality of culture
December 26, 2017by: Olatosu Gabriel - NigeriaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
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Life changing experience
December 21, 2017by: Steffi - NetherlandsProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
The service was exceptional. I had many technical difficulties and someone was always there to help me out. Thank you so much! So easy to get in contact with organisations and tailor a search based on what my interests or travel requirements are for the experience. Love the range of filters and ease of contact and booking. I especially appreciated the transparent ethical guarantee on the website when looking at programs. Really great site! I've spent two weeks at a horse sanctuary and I had an amazing time! It is a nice project, you learn a lot about horsemanship and respect towards the horses.
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