France Volunteer Quest

Volunteer in France: 6 or 12 months

"It was a great experience - something that you couldn't experience just by traveling through a country. You get to know the people, the issues they are facing and how they live their lives. I would recommend a Quest to anyone."

– Lauren Panetta, United Planet Volunteer


What makes a United Planet Long-term Quest unique?

United Planet’s Quest volunteer abroad programs are 100 % cultural immersion experiences. Long-term Quest volunteer opportunities begin in August and January of each year and areavailable to U.S. and Canadian residents of all ages and skill levels.

All Quests include:

  • Personalized attention and ongoing support from Coordinators
  • Extensive pre-departure training and in-country orientation
  • Local home stays or on-site lodging options

We have no doubt it will be life-changing and provide lasting memories. Read on for more detailed information about volunteer opportunities in France.

Country Information

Hosting 75 million foreign tourists each year, France is the most popular travel destination in the world and it’s not hard to imagine why! While volunteering, you will be able to experience the art of French cooking, explore the Louvre, shop the Champs Elysees, climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, visit Versailles, and more! Bordered by Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain, France also serves as a great launching point for exploring Western Europe. Don’t forget that a world of incredible adventures also exists outside of Paris, from coastal Cannes, to the Loire Valley castles and chateaus, and quaint villages in the Alps. Modern France is quite culturally diverse as well, with significant minorities from all over Europe and Northern Africa. As a volunteer in France, you can see beyond the landmarks to discover French culture as it exists today.

United Planet and the ICYE Federation

For six months to one year, you can experience a life-changing program in one of over 30 countries across the globe. United Planet is the U.S. and Canadian member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) Federation , founded in 1949.  Through their vast network and 60 years of experience, United Planet and ICYE offer a wide range of programs for volunteers from around the world.


Who can apply?

Volunteers must be 18 years of age to participate in the France Quest. United Planet can send volunteers who are citizens of the United States and Canada or those who are currently living in the U.S. and Canada.  Citizens and residents of other countries must contact the ICYE partner in their home country. United Planet can send people from any country to our Short-term Quest locations for 1-12 week programs.  Some of our short-term volunteer placements can be extended for longer stays.  Please contact us for more information about volunteering with United Planet.

Volunteer Opportunities in France

United Planet currently offers social volunteer opportunities in different locations in partnership with local organizations in France.

What's Included and Program Details

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        Please see the Long-term Prices and Details page for more information on what's included in your program fee.

Quest Program Briefs

French country side

Projects Working with the Elderly & People with Disabilities

This project works to promote and support the needs of those who are lonely, elderly and/or living with disabilities and have chosen to live at home.  Volunteers will assist them in daily tasks. The project aims to bring comfort, moral support and security to these individuals. Volunteers will work in a local organization with the permanent staff to fight against the loneliness of elderly and disabled individuals, and assist them in their everyday life.

Volunteer with children in France

Social Projects

Volunteers have the opportunity to work with local organizations that welcome homeless people, former alcoholic or drug addicts, formerly convicted individuals and refugees. Volunteers’ work helps to bring dignity and access to resources to people who are socially marginalized.


Volunteer Accommodations

Volunteers in France live at the work placement site.

Learn about the application deadlines and program fees for this Long-term Quest.

Three Easy Steps to Apply

Step 1: Choose your Volunteer Abroad Quest Country and then fill in the online application.

Step 2: Submit your $350 deposit at the time of application. You may pay the deposit online with a credit card as part of your application process, call our office at 1-800-292-2316 to provide your credit card information or send a check to our Boston office.

Step 3: The Long-term Coordinator in the Boston office will contact you to arrange a phone interview. 

Questions about applying?

Call one of our friendly Quest coordinators today. We will walk you step-by-step through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

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