France Volunteer Quest
Volunteer in France: 6 or 12 months
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"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 in France. |
United Planet and the ICYE Federation
| The International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) is an international non-profit youth exchange organization promoting intercultural learning and international voluntary service. United Planet represents the U.S. and Canada as an associate member of the ICYE Federation which was founded after World War II as part of a reconciliation program between the U.S. and Germany. Today there are over 30 country members of the ICYE Federation who work in partnership to exchange volunteers for 6 months and 1 year placements. |  |
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Visit the United Planet YouTube page to view Quest videos and more. |
Country Information
France is located in Western Europe. Bordered by Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain, France is a great launching point to explore many areas of Europe. The composition of the French population today is quite diverse culturally. With 75 million foreign tourists each year, France is the most popular tourist destination in the world. While volunteering, you will be able to experience culinary traditions that have made French cooking a highly refined art while exploring the Louvre, shopping on the Champs Elysees, climbing to the top of the Arc de Triomphe or visiting Versailles! Host projects have chosen to welcome volunteers not only because of the need for help, but also because they expect the volunteer to bring something special through the cultural exchange. The integration of the volunteer into the project is meant to enrich the lives of those who work for and benefit from the host project. |
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Volunteer Opportunities in France (6 or 12 months)
The purpose of this Quest is to promote a deeper level of cultural exchange and understanding through meaningful volunteer work at local organizations and immersion in the host community. |
| Volunteer opportunities begin August and January of each year: 1) 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. 2) 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 Volunteer live at the work placement site. Are you interested in volunteering in France? Read more about Jeunesse et Reconstruction, the ICYE partner in France! |
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Read about the application process, deadlines and program fees for the France Quest.
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Visas
United Planet sends volunteers from many countries around the world. Obtaining a Visa (if necessary) is therefore the responsibility of the volunteer. U.S. citizens can visit the website of the U.S. State Department to learn more about foreign entry requirements. For citizens of all other countries, please contact your destination country's embassy in your home country or your government website. If you need a letter from United Planet to verify your participation in our volunteer program, please e-mail us with this request and we will be happy to provide one.
Health Issues and Vaccinations
Some countries require or suggest that volunteers have certain vaccinations before entering the country. Please consult your country's government website for more information regarding the health of travelers. U.S. citizens can visit the website of the Centers for Disease Control to learn more about vaccinations and staying healthy while traveling. It is also recommended that you visit the nearest travel clinic several months prior to departure.
Living and volunteering abroad, often in conditions you are not used to, can take a toll on the body and mind. In addition to the information that is provided in your pre-departure package, please research how to stay healthy in your country of destination. It could make all the difference!
Request Info
Any questions? Please contact us online at Request Info or call 1-800-292-2316 or 1-617-267-7763. United Planet is open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm EST.
Apply Now
Fill out the online application and start to make a difference as a volunteer!
Why Pay to Volunteer
Learn how your program fee is spent.
Fundraising
Need help with your fundraising activities? Check out our fundraising kit.
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Quests projects vary by location and are offered to both skilled and unskilled volunteers. Read more at:
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