Volunteer Programs in Los Angeles, United States


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3 Volunteer Programs in Los Angeles, United States
Volunteer World
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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
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Join us this summer for sun, sand, and sea turtles as we explore the Hawaiian Islands and California on an adventure designed for younger teens. From vibrant Honolulu to laid-back San Diego, experience postcard-perfect beaches, turquoise water, lively cities, and plenty of outdoor fun. Learn about
A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Los Angeles
What you need to know to volunteer in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is incredibly polarized. Millions are living in poverty among the rich and famous, unhealthy smog levels vie for the fresh ocean air, and dogs carried in purses pass overrun animal shelters. Needless to say, there are a number of ways to truly make a difference while managing to catch a little sun and enjoying your time with volunteer programs in Los Angeles.
Popular causes and program types in Los Angeles. Volunteers are always needed in areas of community development. Homeless shelters and community centers, building and restoration projects, and food banks are eager to accept a helping hand. Taking on urban gardening projects with children and teaching English to the large Hispanic population in SoCal are volunteer opportunities that are also in high demand In LA. Yes, you can even volunteer with animals in Los Angeles!
Short term volunteer programs in Los Angeles. Deciding how long you are able to volunteer is the next step in process of saving the world. The duration of volunteer programs abroad in Los Angeles can vary from a short week to a month or even longer. If you don’t have a lot of time, don’t sweat it. Many like-minded humanitarians opt to volunteer abroad short term and in the summer because it is a great way to fill that treasured time off and enjoy the beautiful summer months of sunny LA.
Long term volunteer programs in Los Angeles. A couple of weeks or months of volunteering will definitely have a lasting effect on the community you are serving, but volunteers are always encouraged to stay as long as possible to maximize impact. If you have a bigger heart for LA than you first realized and you’re considering jumping in for the long haul, there are definitely ways to long term volunteer in Los Angeles, CA.
Life in Los Angeles for International Volunteers
Los Angeles has it all. Palm trees line the streets, giving off beach vibes amongst high-rise buildings, all with mountains with pristine hiking trails creating a magnificent backdrop. Combine that with a mash-up of modern and edgy architecture and you have yourself a city that encourages thinking outside the box and following dreams.
When you volunteer in Los Angeles, you will never be bored. Feast on the best tacos in California or embrace the vegan cuisine as you eat your way through the city. Get your tourist fill in Hollywood as you search for your favorite celebrity’s star (and who knows—you might even see one in their natural habitat!). Spend a day exploring Huntington Beach and biking along Santa Monica Pier or enjoy the boho vibes and free spiritedness while wandering Venice Beach. You can even tour Universal Studios and overlook the whole city at the Griffith Observatory. Volunteering in Los Angeles is the perfect combination of fun and meaningful work.
GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop for volunteers in Los Angeles
The traffic in LA really is that bad. This may come as a shock to many foreigners, but LA is not well equipped when it comes to public transportation. Always factor in a lot of extra time for travel and be aware that you can’t simply hop on a bus or a train to your next location.
The climate of Los Angeles is classified as subtropical-Mediterranean, a rare and highly desirable weather classification. The number of days with any sort of measurable precipitation barely reaches 20 and LA’s sunny disposition is always shining.
The stark contrast of LA’s neighborhoods can sometimes be hard to navigate and taking a wrong turn into a bad neighborhood can be a common (but reversible!) blunder. Just remember to use common sense, steer clear of dodgy areas, and remember nothing good happens after midnight.
Dreams are serious business in La La Land. The City of Angels is the place where all of your wildest dreams can come true, but when you volunteer abroad in Los Angeles, you have the opportunity to help make someone else’s wildest dreams come true! Every year, countless dreamers pour onto its streets, itching to share their story or write a new one. The end result is an exhilarating whirlpool of hope. When you volunteer abroad in Los Angeles, you get to not only be a part of the magic, but contribute to furthering its spectacularity!
Read our comprehensive guide on volunteering abroad in the United States.
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Latest Program Reviews
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.
Mrs
October 23, 2025by: Dignae Peter - TanzaniaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
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.
This was truly a once in a lifetime experience
December 03, 2024by: Eliyah Husravi - United StatesI spent my summer in Hawaii, surrounded by ocean, turtles, and strangers who quickly became friends. We worked hands-on with turtles, learning how important they are to the ecosystem. One day, a Hawaiian woman taught us to weave baskets, sharing stories that made the experience feel personal and meaningful. What began as a journey turned into something much more: a lesson in connection, community, and care. I left with new skills, lifelong friends, and memories I'll never forget.
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
February 25, 2019by: Michael Ojeme - NigeriaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
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
January 04, 2019by: zhongxuan yang - ChinaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
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
November 30, 2018by: Maria Enelia Echeverry - ColombiaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
In my 30 years of experience as a professional nurse I have worked in comprehensive patient care and I know everything related to the area of health. Now I am retired and my great desire is to help people in need.
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
I'm Olatosu Gabriel, I was so touched when I travel to Tanzania, with a lots of unexpected surprises, really enjoyed my tour over there, especially in Zanzibar, their masquerades where so fine, they moved out with voodoo, flames of fire coming out of their head, women half naked dancing on their toe. Some strong men holding their masquerades that held cutlasses, I had a lot of time watching their festival, I enjoyed the way of their greetings, prostration and two hands on their head, I also visited a port, where I saw some animals, some that I have never seen in my life, also visited Kenya, I enjoyed their meal and their women so cheerful and lovely, most are black but beautiful, also visited Ghana in Accra, really enjoyed the cool place, with lots of fun, clubbing and enjoyed their women hospitality,. So amazing,...



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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