Volunteer in the United States of America
Volunteer in the United States of America and explore the ‘land of the free’ whilst working for a good cause. There is so much to see that it is impossible to name it all, from New York to Hawaii, from white beaches and palm trees in the south to wild untamed national parks in the north. Volunteer in the USA for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Do you love animals? Work for a wildlife rescue center in the United States and protect local wildlife like deer, skunks, raccoons or even wolves. If you love horses, work at a mustang rescue and take care of abandoned horses in America. Take action and apply for your volunteer opportunity in the USA.
You don’t need to travel to developing countries to contribute to a meaningful cause. Volunteers keen on maintaining certain luxuries and avoiding language barriers can choose to volunteer and make a difference in the United States. Known for its natural beauty, impressive national parks, and iconic cities, the USA will never fail to amaze. Although there are plenty of volunteer opportunities for local communities in this country, animal lovers especially will find their dream programs here. Whether it’s rescuing mustangs, taking care of huskies or other wildlife species, you’ll find it in America. Pack your bags and get ready to travel to the land of opportunity in search of a new adventure!
Volunteer programs in America are mainly focused on animals and are scattered across different states. From Alaska to Arizona and from California to Florida, volunteers will find international volunteer programs in all corners of the country. Whether you’re from Europe, South America, Asia or even the United States, volunteering abroad in the USA will open a world of new discoveries. For American volunteers, traveling to the hidden crevices of the country will definitely feel like volunteering abroad.
Before we go into more detail about the different volunteer projects in the USA, let’s get to know the most famous country in the world a little better. Here are a few facts you may not have known:
When you think of volunteer work, America might not be the first country that comes to mind. We often forget that developed countries also have their struggles. Luckily, there are several international programs that allow volunteers to join the community of volunteers and lend a hand in those areas where help is required.
The U.S. is blessed with varied landscapes, pristine national parks and a distinct culture which is world famous thanks to the wonders of cinema. Volunteers who love nature and animals will be thrilled and can find several international volunteer opportunities focused on animal welfare. Volunteer in the United States and learn what it is like to work with animals.
Forget your struggles and surrender yourself to the daily grind of caring for animals that have been abused, neglected or injured. These poor creatures are in desperate need of some extra love and care. Will you give that to them? Working with animals is guaranteed to be an excellent calming therapy which will improve the lives of vulnerable animals that lack the care they deserve.
You may be a horse lover or have an affinity for huskies or wolves. No matter what type of animal person you are, you’ll find a project in the United States that will fulfill your desire to contribute. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of volunteer projects that are available. This will help with your search for your perfect volunteer opportunity abroad.
Mustangs are a feral breed of horses that are descendants of Arabian and Spanish Barb horses brought over to America in 1400-1500. There are currently over 40000 Mustangs living in the wild in the USA. Because they are not considered to be a wild species, Mustangs often don’t receive the same protection other wild species do.
Volunteers who are keen on spending some quality time with this breed which is so famous from the Wild West, choose one of the Mustang rescue and rehabilitation programs in the USA. Enjoy the splendid outdoors, breathe in the fresh air and soothe your nerves through the therapeutic effects of the Mustang horse. The rescue and rehabilitation centers are a warm community where you will feel warmly welcomed by both the people as the horses.
If you’re willing to live off the grid and happen to love dogs, why not volunteer as a husky caretaker? Besides experiencing the simple life, take this opportunity to go dog sledding and give these intuitive creatures the attention and care they need. Learn what it takes to work and care for huskies as you become part of a close community. What are you waiting for? MUSH!
Volunteers who prefer working with exotic animals can volunteer abroad as a wildlife caretaker. Help rehabilitate and care for migratory and native American wildlife in one of the sanctuaries or rescue centers. Help with daily chores which may include the following:
Admire the different species inhabiting some of the most fascinating destinations of the USA like the Everglades. Explore some of America’s most scenic areas as you work with wildlife that has been abandoned, mistreated or injured.
Have you always been curious about the therapeutic effects of equine therapy? Understand more about the healing effects horses can have on autistic children as you help take care of these magical creatures. Connect with children who have special needs and face many struggles. Spend meaningful time with them and give them an experience they will never forget. Learn more about the techniques of horse therapy in one of the horse programs and open yourself up to a whole new world of healing and personal development. Join the tight-knit horse community and appreciate the warmth and healing effects.
These are not the only programs in the United States. Volunteers with a soft spot for farm animals or even wolves will find opportunities in the USA focused on just these creatures too. Open up to the various volunteer opportunities offered in the land of the free and discover all it has in store for you. Take a look at the available international programs in the USA. We’re convinced this will help your search for the volunteer program that fits you.
The suggested budget for living in the US as a volunteer is between US$ 81 and US$ 222. This is an estimate made considering the local average price of some of the things you may want to buy and services you might need. It gives you an overview of how much things cost so you are well prepared for your trip to the US. Because your accommodation is provided by the organization, your living expenses may be a bit lower than what is suggested below. Once you have contacted the coordinator of the project, you will have a better understanding of the daily expenses and how much you will need to make things work during your international volunteer adventure.
Additional costs you should consider are:
Before you embark on your volunteer trip to the US, there may be a few cultural aspects to take into account. It’s always a good idea to learn about certain customs when volunteering abroad. These tips may help you out:
Make sure to read up on the safety advice your government has for tourists traveling to the USA. Most projects are in relatively safe areas but it is important to use common sense at all times, especially in major cities.
America is quite a safe place to travel so there shouldn’t be much to worry about if you keep an eye out. Here are some free tips you might want to follow during your volunteer work in the US.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
Because the USA is a developed country, it’s unlikely that travelers or volunteers will fall ill during the trip and volunteer program in the US. It is advisable to take the following precautions:
Knowing what to pack will take away some of the anxiety you may have regarding your adventure abroad. It is always a good idea to ask the project coordinator about what volunteers should bring along.
Different projects require different skills from volunteers. You can find the specific requirements for each program on their program page. Volunteering in the US will require a basic knowledge of the English language and a deep love for animals. In the meantime, here are some general requirements that apply to most volunteer opportunities in the US:
Are you ready to volunteer in the US but not quite sure how to get started? Take a look at the following 3 steps that will prepare you for your volunteer work and an unforgettable adventure abroad:
We recommend all our volunteers to get both health and travel insurance. In fact, this is a requirement for most programs abroad. Get in touch with your program contact person in America to find out if an insurance plan is in place for international volunteers.