Volunteering in Cartagena
Summary: Getting involved through volunteering is a fantastic way to build connections in Cartagena. Here are some organizations where you can lend a hand.
Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to immerse themselves in the local community of Cartagena. Not only does it provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, but it also offers a unique opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, practice Spanish, and gain a deeper understanding of the city's culture and needs. There are numerous organizations in Cartagena that welcome volunteers, ranging from educational programs to environmental conservation efforts.
Fundación Juan Felipe Gómez Escobar
This foundation focuses on improving the quality of life for underprivileged children and adolescents through education, health, and community development programs. Volunteers can assist with teaching, organizing workshops, or helping with recreational activities. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week.
Website: juanfe.org
Location(s): Various communities in Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Casa Taller de Don Bosco
This organization provides vocational training and educational opportunities to young people from low-income backgrounds. Volunteers can teach English, assist with vocational training, or help with administrative tasks. The time commitment is flexible but typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: casatallerdonbosco.org
Location(s): Centro Histórico, Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Mamonal
Fundación Mamonal works to promote sustainable development and improve living conditions in the Mamonal neighborhood of Cartagena. Volunteers can assist with community projects, educational programs, and environmental initiatives. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week.
Website: fundacionmamonal.org
Location(s): Mamonal, Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Tiempo de Juego
This foundation uses sports and recreational activities as a tool for social development and peacebuilding. Volunteers can assist with coaching, organizing events, or helping with administrative tasks. The time commitment varies but typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: tiempodejuego.org
Location(s): Various communities in Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Bahía
Fundación Bahía focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of marine and coastal ecosystems in the Cartagena Bay area. Volunteers can assist with environmental education programs, research projects, or conservation efforts. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week.
Website: fundacionbahia.org
Location(s): Cartagena Bay area
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Fútbol con Corazón
This organization uses soccer as a tool for social development, promoting values such as teamwork, discipline, and respect among disadvantaged youth. Volunteers can assist with coaching, organizing tournaments, or helping with administrative tasks. The time commitment varies but typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: futbolconcorazon.org
Location(s): Various communities in Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Acción Interna
Fundación Acción Interna works to improve the living conditions of inmates and their families, promoting rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, vocational training, or recreational activities. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week.
Website: accioninterna.org
Location(s): Prisons in Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Creactiva
This foundation promotes creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship among young people in Cartagena. Volunteers can assist with workshops, mentoring programs, or helping with administrative tasks. The time commitment varies but typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: creactiva.org
Location(s): Various communities in Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación ProBoom
Fundación ProBoom focuses on promoting education, health, and community development in the Boquilla neighborhood of Cartagena. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, health campaigns, or community projects. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week.
Website: proboom.org
Location(s): Boquilla, Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Renacer
This organization provides comprehensive care and support to children and adolescents who have been victims of sexual exploitation. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, recreational activities, or helping with administrative tasks. The time commitment varies but typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: fundacionrenacer.org
Location(s): Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Fundación Casa en el Árbol
Fundación Casa en el Árbol works to improve the quality of life for children and adolescents with cancer and their families. Volunteers can assist with recreational activities, emotional support, or helping with administrative tasks. The time commitment varies but usually involves a few hours per week.
Website: casaenelarbol.org
Location(s): Cartagena
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Cartagena
- Best Markets in Cartagena
- Retire in Cartagena Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Cartagena
- Pros & Cons of Living in Cartagena
- Driving in Cartagena
- Discover the Best of Cartagena
- Health Care in Cartagena
- Cost of Living in Cartagena
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Colombia
- Best Places to Live in Colombia
- Real Estate in Colombia
- How to Get a Driver's License in Colombia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Colombia 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Colombia