While many San Franciscans enjoy a great standard of living, people fall on hard times easily in the area, given the very high cost of real estate and rental properties. Your work here may help keep families afloat long enough to make their California dreams come true.

Popular causes and projects. English teaching related volunteering is popular, especially given how multicultural the Bay Area is around San Francisco; your ability to speak English and another language could come in handy with the many populations here. The business culture of San Francisco also makes it a great place to make an impact in microfinance, which is an industry that works to get low-interest loans into the hands of deserving impoverished individuals and companies. Want a part in keeping California’s plants, animals, and natural formations safe? San Francisco is a site for volunteers to practice conservation as well.

Short term volunteer programs in San Francisco. Finding volunteer opportunities in San Francisco for a few weeks can be a great way to get to know the whole of the hilly city before moving to another place or commitment. Staying for the summer or for even just a few weeks can be incredibly rewarding. Often less extensive programs have an easier United States visa process, which is another reason to make a short and sweet volunteering trip.

Long term volunteer projects in San Francisco. Volunteering with a San Francisco non-profit or other community partner for more than three months can create lasting bonds and a chance to get to know the people you are serving at a new level. Some programs even go for a year or more! You may need to acquire a visa, so it is a good idea to start planning a long-term volunteer program a few months ahead of time, at least, and to make arrangements with your hosting organization that will allow for such an opportunity.