Voluntary work in Russia
Information & guidance about volunteering projects in Russia
Russia is the largest country in the world, offering everything from historic sites, idyllic countryside to a wild nightlife. Those who choose to volunteer in Russia will feel far from exiled in this corner of the world, and home to 23 UNESCO World Heritage sites, 40 biosphere reserves and various national parks – you can be sure that voluntary work in Russia has plenty to offer in terms of culture, adventure and wilderness.
Where to volunteer in Russia
If ancient fortresses, glittering palaces and swirly-spired churches are the kind of adventure you desire, focus on European Russia. Although the majority of Russia is considered rural, around 75% of Russia’s population lives in its two largest cities, Moscow and St. Petersburg. Consequently, voluntary work in Russia tend to be city based, but that is not to say there aren’t programs in rural areas to consider.
Moscow is Russia’s capital and largest city with a population of around 17 million people. Moscow is known to have a huge need for volunteers across multiple sectors, for example, working with children, the elderly or disabled, or helping the homeless. There are also many voluntary placements for teachers and healthcare professionals too, with a large volume of schools in need of English teachers.
St. Petersburg – this is the second largest city in West Russia, just off the coast of the Baltic Sea, and just like Moscow, there is a high demand for volunteers in both healthcare and education and is known to have community programs all over the city.
Most of the country of Russia is rural, this is where you will see the vast and wild nature. Rural areas environment and atmosphere can be harsh, so volunteers looking to seek work in these areas need to be prepared to be challenged through simple lifestyle aspects and the changing climate. The most popular or in demand voluntary work in the rural areas of Russia are English teachers and those who can help with restoration and wildlife projects.
Volunteering projects in Russia
Voluntary work in Russia is known to be sparse, but those who are interested in specific sectors, will be able to find their desire. Such as volunteering in education, community service or healthcare.
Education: Teaching English is one of the most common ways to volunteer in Russia, either volunteering at a school throughout the country or choosing to stay with a host family and teach them English on a more personal level.
Community Service: These types of voluntary work placements are usually located in the cities within Russia, where the largest population of residents are. Voluntary community service workers are needed to help create and implement development programs for those in need, such as the elderly, disabled, homeless or underprivileged children. This is the most rewarding voluntary work in any country, where individuals will be able to see the difference they are making and interact with locals and create relationships.
Healthcare: Due to the size of Russia, the healthcare networks are of course extensive, which means there are many types of healthcare voluntary work placements. The range of placements allows volunteers to use their specialty skills, such as admin work, surgical procedures or physical therapy. With the option of less medial aspects also available where they simply talk to others to help them.
