Volunteer Programs in France

14 Volunteer Programs in France

Featured Provider of the Month

Impact Gap Year
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Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thail...
GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
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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 medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.
International Medical Aid (IMA)
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Join the ranks of forward-thinking healthcare professionals through International Medical Aid's (IMA) Physician Assistant and Pre-PA Internships. Our program, rooted in the educational standards of Johns Hopkins University, is designed to propel undergraduate students, PA school attendees, certified PAs, and high school students into the heart of global health care. IMA, a non-profit entity, extends beyond traditional borders to bring essential medical aid and education to underserved regions in East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. The internship, underscored by an ethics-based approach to care, enhances clinical skills and lets you explore the cultural and societal nuances of healthcare, facilitated by our seasoned mentors. IMA's commitment to improving global health while also enriching the educational journey of each intern is evident in our comprehensive support system. From day one, interns receive personalized guidance, from field-specific orientation to admissions consulting for PA school, ensuring a seamless transition into international medical settings.
ALIORE, Worldwide Workshops
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Volunteer 15 hours each week in exchange for free room and board in the south of France. Participating in this programme implies sharing daily life with a French family, learning their language and culture, and adopting it as their own for a period of time. At the same time, share your own language and culture with the members of the local family. Your main duty is to help the family, usually the kids, with their English studies for up to 15 hours per week. Lessons can be more or less formal, depending upon their needs. The family offers full board and private accommodation. Facilities are shared with the family. Each family is interviewed and carefully selected, taking into account their genuine desire to learn a new language and share their culture with the participants. Eligibility for this program includes: - Be a native English speaker - Have finished High School - Be flexible, open-minded, and willing to adapt quickly to your new environment - Respect the host family's rules - Have some knowledge of French; the programme is not suitable for total beginners in French - Previous teaching experience is not a requirement but is highly recommended
See All 2 ProgramsVolunteer 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 grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.
See All 2 ProgramsProjects Abroad
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Answer the Call of the Wild: A French Adventure in Conservation & Culture. Imagine: You, amidst the rolling hills of southern France, working to track and protect endangered species. You, learning the ancient art of wilderness survival from seasoned experts. This isn't a passive holiday—it's an active contribution to our planet's future. Your two-week conservation program will immerse you in real-world challenges, offering hands-on experience in biodiversity surveys and wildlife tracking. Then, step into the heart of French culture. Wander the hallowed halls of the Louvre, stand in awe before the Eiffel Tower, and explore the opulent Palace of Versailles. This is more than a journey—it's an experience. A memory waiting to be made.
Global Works
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Embark on a French adventure that takes you through the Alps, the streets of Paris, and more! Make local friends, experience homestays with French families, and earn community service hours while working with locals and through environmental projects in the Alps! Experience the famous Bastille Day the French way on this unforgettable teen travel program to France! All the activities we do allow you to put your French language skills to use in real-world contexts. This adventure allows you to experience all that France has to offer! Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Join us on this student trip to France!
WorldStrides
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The City of Lights is home to one of the most diverse populations in the world, with cultures from around the globe bringing their traditions and practices into the metropolis. Exploring the culture in Paris, connecting to a Christian community, and serving others will open your eyes to universal human needs and deepen your faith. Veritas Christian Study Abroad incorporates international missions into exceptional study abroad experiences. During your study abroad program, Veritas connects you with a Mission Mentor and local ministry partners with whom you will serve alongside in Paris. Students may partner with the Mission Mentor and the Emmanuel International Church in Paris to reach out to the community in the city through campus outreach and language exchange programs.
Rustic Pathways
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‘Oh la la’ all day! Stroll through cobblestone streets with a freshly baked croissant in hand and marvel at France's iconic landmarks, history, and architecture. As enchanting as the famed Eiffel Tower is, the country doesn’t end in Paris! And we’ll show you that! Each region of this beautiful country tells a unique story. From Provence to the Alps to the French Riviera, France offers a rich culture, unforgettable scenery, incredible fashion, and delicious cuisine! City of Light to Coastal Delight (14-18 years old): This unique cultural travel program explores iconic Parisian sites and the serene charm of the French Riviera. Plus, students engage in meaningful service projects in the heart of France!
Cultural Homestay International
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As a World Explorer in France, you will get the chance to learn the real French way of life. You can put on a beret, learn to make crepes, become a cheese expert and a wine snob during your stay with a local host family. Sharing your language and culture has never been so fun, and not to mention fulfilling. Learning French? World Explorers provides you with an ideal environment to improve your language skills. While you are not required to speak French, we want you to come back from your trip saying more than just, "Voulez-vous coucher avec moi!" CHI works with trusted overseas partners in France to find the best host families possible. Please note that most placements are often outside of the city center due to limited living space in urban areas. While you can request your ideal destination, we ask that you are flexible as our placements can be anywhere in the country depending on what is available. For example, we cannot guarantee that you will be placed in Paris. Recent placements have been near Lyon, Bordeaux, Nantes and Rennes.
Volunteers For Peace
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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 way to meet people from all over the world. Work project types vary by country but may include environmental and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, educational and language learning, archaeology, organic farming, and arts and festivals. We also have social services projects, which could involve working with children, the elderly, or refugees. Projects are designed to combine service with recreational activities and cultural exchange – whether by visiting local beaches, learning local dances, meeting local officials, or volunteering with residents at the place you’re visiting. Each project is unique, but all bring people together for the most meaningful travel experience imaginable. Please note that VFP can only place US Citizens. This is due to our agreements with our international partners.
The Cultural Exchange Project
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The Cultural Exchange Project (formerly The GeoVisions Foundation) offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in French culture, learn the language, and savor delicious French cuisine for 3 months by becoming an English tutor at a local school. You'll have the chance to live like a local with a carefully selected host family, whose children attend the school where you'll be tutoring English. By tutoring students and assisting teachers in conversational English for up to 15 hours a week, you'll become an integral part of the community. The rest of your time is yours to explore your new surroundings and connect with the friendly locals.
A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in France
Prepare for Volunteer Abroad
Set Goals
Setting goals can guide you in creating a fulfilling volunteer experience in France.
- Define your impact: Decide if you want to focus on environmental work, community support, or educational programs.
- Set learning objectives: Consider any specific skills or knowledge you want to develop.
- Cultural goals: Think about how you’d like to connect with French culture, language, and traditions.
- Personal growth: Outline ways to build your adaptability, empathy, and problem-solving skills.
Understand the Benefits
Volunteering in France is a rewarding experience with a variety of benefits.
- Cultural immersion: Live like a local and experience France’s language, food, and customs.
- Skill building: Gain hands-on experience in project management, community work, or environmental conservation.
- Global connections: Meet other volunteers and create friendships across borders.
- Resume boost: International volunteer experience in France is a valuable addition to your professional profile.
Things to Know
Here are some essential things to consider before heading to France for a volunteer experience.
- Visa requirements: Research visa options, especially for long-term stays over 90 days.
- Language: Basic French skills are helpful, especially in rural areas.
- Cultural etiquette: Familiarize yourself with French customs, such as greetings and dining etiquette.
- Cost of living: France can be costly, especially in major cities; plan a budget in advance.
- Weather: France has diverse climates; pack accordingly for your specific region.
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Volunteer roles in France span education, community development, and agricultural work. Teaching English is common, often involving classroom assistance or private tutoring. Rural options include working on vineyards or farms, sometimes paired with environmental projects. Social work placements focus on aiding underserved urban populations.
Paris is a popular choice for volunteers, offering roles in education and community outreach. Other major cities like Lyon, Marseilles, and Nice also provide opportunities to engage with urban projects. For a quieter experience, rural towns and provinces offer programs in agriculture and environmental conservation. France’s diverse regions let volunteers experience both the bustling city life and the serene countryside.
Accommodation varies by program and location. Volunteers may stay with host families, offering a chance to immerse in French culture and practice the language. Group housing is common for shorter programs, while longer stays may allow volunteers to rent apartments. Some programs include meals, especially with host families, while others provide recommendations for affordable lodging nearby.
For stays up to 90 days, a short-stay Schengen visa may suffice for non-EU nationals. Longer stays generally require a long-stay visa. EU citizens can volunteer visa-free. Requirements vary by country, so consult your local French consulate for accurate guidelines based on your nationality and program duration. Planning ahead ensures smooth entry and compliance with French immigration laws.
Platforms like GoAbroad can help you connect with various program providers. Many NGOs in France also advertise volunteer openings on their websites and social media. You can contact French embassies or consulates for information or referrals, and volunteer coordination agencies can offer guidance and support. Additionally, consider reaching out to universities, schools, or community centers in France for potential opportunities.
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