Volunteer Programs in Seville, Spain

After recent economic crises in Spain, the citizens of Seville have struggled in the job market. Here lie the biggest opportunities to make a difference while volunteering in Seville. Volunteers can settle into one of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Seville while joining causes to promote human rights, education, and conservation, leaving a lasting impression on the Spanish community.

Popular causes in Seville. With job shortages throughout the city, most Spanish locals constantly seek to improve their English skills in order to increase their odds of finding better jobs. For this reason, teaching English is the most popular volunteer placement in Seville. Volunteers can teach English to their host families, where they will save money and improve their Spanish, or in various childcare institutions. Other popular placements include human rights movements and environmental conservation, both on land and sea. 

Summer and short-term volunteer programs in Seville. Volunteers can find placements for any length of time in Seville, from one week to one year, but placement options will differ depending on your time commitment. Those who want a short-term volunteer placement abroad will have more options in environmental conservation, so you can spend one week planting trees in protected natural areas, or a summer researching whales and other sea life in southern Spain.

Long-term volunteer stints in Seville. While short-term volunteers are always welcomed, long-term volunteers will have the opportunity to make an even greater impact on the community. Volunteers who have the time can spend several months volunteering in human rights or education. Settle into this Spanish beach town and teach English, leaving a permanent mark in the community.

Sevilla is one of the largest “old towns” in the world, with ancient history seeping into all aspects of everyday life. The city was originally founded by the Romans, came under Muslim rule for centuries, and finally joined the Spanish kingdom, and its rich history is reflected through its food, architecture, and fun.  Volunteers can wander medieval lanes lined with gothic cathedrals and baroque churches, practice their Spanish with locals in busy plazas, or take flamenco dance classes. Spend your days giving back to the community, and your nights eating tapas in crowded bars with new amigos, or sipping Spanish wine at sunset on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. 

Volunteers will be drawn to Seville for its affordability, especially when compared with other cities in Europe. Normally, program fees can cost more than €1000, but these will cover accommodation, food, and transport to your placement. On the ground, you’ll reap the benefits of settling in a less touristy area of Spain. Buy a coffee for just €1, or a three-course lunch for €12. Bus tickets will only cost €2 at most, but this charming city is small enough to explore by foot or bicycle.

When you volunteer abroad in Seville, you’ll love observing (and participating in!) how the Sevillanos have mastered the art of celebrating. The streets of Sevilla are alive and buzzing every day and every night, with the occasional silence in the afternoon during siesta time. Laid back vibes are accompanied by beautiful Mediterranean weather, and entertainment can be found in all corners of the city. Feast yourselves on fresh food at the many pubs, cafes, and markets, breathe in the salty air at the beautiful beaches, and check out the thriving nightlife after a long work week. If the timing is right, check out one of the many festivals that take place around the city.

With a laidback European lifestyle comes culture shock while volunteering abroad in Seville. Volunteers may be surprised when the city nearly shuts down every day during the famous siesta time. The days are split between morning and evening, so don’t expect to find open restaurants and shops in the late afternoon. Instead, volunteers will find themselves eating dinner late into the night with their host families, beginning around 10pm. Keep your mind open and practice your Spanish before your arrival to avoid culture shock when possible.

Volunteers in Seville will experience the best of Spain, from warm weather and laidback attitude, to cheap living costs and constant parties. Whether you spend a week or a year, you won’t regret this affordable, fun destination with many great volunteer opportunities. Avoid the overloaded tourist areas and jump into a new adventure, where you will fall in love with life itself in one of the most romantic cities in Spain. Volunteer in Seville and make a difference between all those churro binges. 

Not convinced yet? Take a siesta then read our comprehensive guide on volunteering abroad in Spain.