Switzerland Volunteer Quest
Volunteer in Switzerland: 6 or 12 months

“The saying, ‘The best things in life, come in small packages’ is surely referring to Switzerland! With three official languages (four if you count English), Switzerland has all the culture and diversity you would expect from a tiny landlocked country surrounded by four other incredible countries!”

-  Breeze Brenton, United Planet volunteer in Switzerland

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) Social Projects - Volunteers work at a school or an organization that works with children who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.  These projects aim to provide their inhabitants with family-like surroundings, close contacts, as well as advance their development and sense of security. Volunteers assist in various types of classes as well as take care of the children.

2) People with Disabilities - Volunteers work with physically and mentally disabled adults at a center that aims to empower its members by helping them become more self-sufficient, dispelling prejudices and providing activities for them to do that involve the local community. Volunteer tasks typically include assisting the residents in daily activities such as washing, eating, going for walks, cleaning and helping during swimming lessons.

3) Working with the Elderly - Volunteers provide these individuals company, a listening ear, and assistance with getting around to various daily activities.  This project gives you the chance to learn about Swiss society from those who know it the best.

4) Cultural and Administrative Projects – Volunteers assist in a cultural center with tasks such as taking phone calls, office work and organizing cultural events. It is also a great opportunity to assist immigrants in understanding their new home.

5) Radio and Theater Projects – Volunteers help with administration work to support the staff at local radio and theater organizations.   Volunteers are required to speak fluent German.

Volunteer Accommodations

Volunteers live with host families or in a project site apartment.

Are you interested in volunteering in Switzerland? Read more about ICYE Switzerland!

Read about the application process, deadlines and program fees for the Switzerland Quest.

• Volunteers must be 18 years of age to participate in the Switzerland 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.