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How to Volunteer in the Capital

Posted: 26th August 2015 08:15

Volunteering in Germany is quite a recent phenomenon but, the country already has over 23 million regular volunteers.  Due to rapidly growing interest, volunteer centres are popping up all over the country.  In Berlin, there are roughly 22 centres that are looking to find you placements with one of their hundreds of partnered charitable projects and organisations.  You do not necessarily even need to speak any German! 

Whatever brings you to Berlin, there are endless reasons why volunteering is not only a huge benefit to the local community, but advantageous for yourself.  If you have plans to work or study in Berlin, volunteering is the perfect opportunity to become part of your new community, make friends and practise your German.  Volunteering opportunities offered in the capital are particularly complementary for those working in or studying social work, politics, charities, environmentalism, activism, journalism, education or health work.  Projects can also help you hone and demonstrate specific skills such as planning and management.  Whether you volunteer for a few hours a week, a day or move solely to commit to a long-term project, volunteering in Berlin is rewarding and challenging with lifelong benefits. 

There are countless opportunities in Berlin to work with the young, old, disabled, homeless, unemployed, victims of crime, terminally ill, vulnerable women & men, migrants and animals through roles including graphics, journalism, education, planning, mentoring, arts & crafts, gardening, finance, administration and management.  No matter what you can think of, there is almost certainly a project for you. 

Volunteer Centres

Treffpunkt Hilfsbereitschaft– Mitte

Mitte’s local centre has expert advisors who will help you find volunteering positions in the borough either in person or over the phone by first accessing your preferences.  Their comprehensive online database has countless opportunities and you can discuss these on the phone between 13:00 to 16:00pm Monday to Tuesday, or 10:00am to 13:00pm Thursday to Friday (German time). 

FreiwilligenAgentur– Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg

Serving the Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg borough, the agency focuses on encouraging you to use and lead your own initiative in community projects.  The centre’s passionate staff provide specialist counselling to budding volunteers and can also advise on qualifications and training through placements.  Placements are listed on the ‘Current Offers’ page but you can also call or email. 

Nachbarschaftsheim– Tempelhof-Schöneberg

Tempelhof-Schöneberg’s volunteering projects are brought together by Nachbarschaftsheim.  The hub has many advisors to steer you through the process before and during your post.  Projects are offered in three areas: Parents & Family, Leisure & Culture and Maintain & Support.  Nachbarschaftsheim also run a Culture Café, Neighbourhood Café and Theatre of Experience for you to enjoy and get involved in.  

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