Volunteering
By getting involved in local projects, you experience everyday life, meet people who live in the country, and gain a better understanding of how things work. At the same time, you take part in meaningful activities and gain valuable experience abroad.
European Volunteering
European Volunteering offers stays in Switzerland where you join a non-profit organisation in fields such as environmental protection or social support. You become part of the team and take an active role in ongoing projects while discovering everyday life in Switzerland through a meaningful experience abroad.
In short
For young people aged 18–30
In Switzerland
Stays of 2 weeks to 12 months
How much does it cost?
Volunteering in Switzerland is fully funded. The programme covers travel costs, accommodation and food. It also includes a small allowance for personal expenses. It is good to have a small extra budget of your own to help you.
How does it work?
Current volunteering opportunities in Switzerland are published on the Match&Move portal. You apply directly to a project that matches your interests and availability.
International workcamps
International workcamps bring together young people from different countries around a local project in Switzerland. Together with other participants, you get involved on the ground and take part in practical activities such as renovating a building or contributing to an artistic project.
By taking part in hands-on activities, you discover everyday life, meet people, and experience the country from a local perspective while sharing intercultural moments with other participants.
In short
For young people aged 16–30
In Switzerland
Stays of tow to eight weeks
How much does it cost?
In most cases, you cover your travel costs and pay a participation fee, which usually ranges from 250 to 400 CHF. On-site costs such as accommodation, food and activities are covered by the host organisation.
How does it work?
Workcamp opportunities are usually published in spring for the following year. Each offer includes a description of the tasks, accommodation and participants. You then apply directly for the workcamp you are interested in.
Who to contact?
SCI Switzerland, ICYE and IFYE organise volunteering projects in Switzerland. Don’t hesitate to contact them directly to see what offers they have available.
Other types of projects
There are many ways to get involved through hands-on projects linked to nature, agriculture and mountain regions. Depending on the organisation, you might help on a farm, take part in forest maintenance, or support projects in alpine areas. These experiences allow you to discover new environments while learning more about yourself and everyday life.
In short
From 12 years old (depending on the project)
In Switzerland or worldwide
From 2 weeks
From 2 weeks How much does it cost?
Costs vary depending on the organisation and the project.
How does it work?
Mission descriptions are usually available on the websites of different organisations. You can filter offers according to your preferred destination and length of stay.
Who to contact?
Organisations like Bergwald Projekt, Caritas Montagnards and Agriviva offer opportunities to volunteer in Switzerland. Their websites might be in French, German or Italian only. Contact them directly to explore available opportunities.
In Switzerland, I felt respected, taken seriously and fully integrated.Akwasi, 20 years old
Learn more
Volunteering brochure
An overview of many volunteering opportunities to help you get started and make the most of your experience.
Sports and cultural volunteering opportunities
Volunteering opportunities at sports and cultural events across Switzerland through the SwissVolunteers platform.
Social projects opportunities
Opportunities to get involved in social projects throughout Switzerland with benevol Suisse.