A Guide to Volunteering in Poland

So you're thinking about volunteering in Europe? Poland is an excellent destination you should really consider! Participating will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life, you will get to make a difference, have a lot of fun and also meet new friends.

There is no best time to apply although we find most people want to participate during summer - get your application in early for this period. There are so many reasons you should apply, not least you will learn so much about the local culture, people and history of the country.

Poland is centrally located in Europe which makes getting here very easy too.

 

Popular Places to Volunteer 

  • Warsaw
  • Łódź
  • Krakow
  • Wrocław
  • Poznań
  • Gdańsk
  • Szczecin
  • Bydgoszcz
  • Lublin
  • Katowice
  • Białystok
  • Gdynia 
A lot of projects are also in rural areas of the country. Related Destinations: Volunteer in Czech Republic / Volunteer in Germany.

 

Types of Programs

There are opportunities throughout Poland whrere you can help:

Healthcare and Medicine

If you would like to gain experience for a healthcare career there are medical placements available to apply for in clinics and hospitals usually in the larger cities.

Education

There are lots of placements where you will get to teach and also help local children and adults improve their English language skills. Local organisations run summer camps usually from May to August which are a lot of fun where you can help Polish students improve their writing, speaking and listening skills.

Community Development

Skilled and non skilled international volunteers are needed to work with youngsters and elderly people who have disabilities or come from disadvantaged backgrounds. These placements can be challenging, eye opening and the most rewarding experience of your life.

Religious 

There are programs available where you can help members of the local Jewish community, this will be a facsinating insight into the religion and culture. You do not need to be Jewish to apply for these placements.

 

How to Apply

You can register your interest and apply today by searching our featured programs above. There are placements available to join for a few weeks or if you want a longer commitment then you can stay for over 3 months.

Usually you will need to be aged 17+ and be in good health. A tourist visa is all that is needed to volunteer, also knowing basic Polish will be a benefit but most programs are run in English.

You might also like to view all of our volunteering programs abroad.

 

Volunteer in Poland for Free

Usually international organisations charge a fee to volunteer in Poland, but there are also low cost and free opportunities available throughout the country. You can seek these out once in Poland. Some organisations will also pay for your food, accommodation and give you a weekly or montly pocket money for living expenses.

 

Poland Volunteer Reviews

Have you ever volunteered in Poland and would you like to share your experience or review a project or organisation? Please contact us.

"I worked at a conversational English language camp in rural Poland which was an incredible experience. We had a large staff of volunteers who were mainly from Europe and we help a group of children improve their learning through activities, games and educational lessons." - David P, UK 

"I volunteered in Krakow at a school for children with seeing and learning disabilities, the city was beautiful and the placement although upsetting at times was so inspiring to see the work being done to help. We also got to do trips into Slovakia seeing beautiful countryside and villages. Our team really bonded and I will never forget this time of my life." - Emma A, UK

"I went to volunteer in Poland for 5 months on an education program with Lattitude Global Volunteering. I loved the experience." - Sam, Australia