Volunteering in Mexico City
Summary: Volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with others in Mexico City. Here are several organizations you might consider supporting.
Volunteering in Mexico City is an excellent way for expats to immerse themselves in the local culture, improve their language skills, and build a social network. It provides a unique opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, both locals and fellow expats, while contributing positively to the community. There are numerous organizations that welcome volunteers, ranging from environmental conservation groups to educational programs and community development initiatives.
Casa Tochan
Casa Tochan is a shelter that supports migrants and refugees, providing them with temporary housing, food, and legal assistance. Volunteers can help with various tasks such as preparing meals, teaching workshops, or assisting with administrative tasks. The time commitment is flexible, with volunteers typically working shifts that can range from a few hours to a full day.
Website: casatochan.org
Location(s): Colonia Guerrero, Mexico City
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically 4-8 hours per shift
Ollin
Ollin is an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation. Volunteers can participate in reforestation projects, urban gardening initiatives, and environmental education workshops. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers usually dedicate a few hours per week or participate in weekend activities.
Website: ollin.org.mx
Location(s): Various locations throughout Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week or weekend activities
Fundación ProEmpleo
Fundación ProEmpleo focuses on providing job training and employment opportunities for marginalized individuals. Volunteers can assist with teaching workshops, mentoring participants, or helping with job placement efforts. The time commitment is typically a few hours per week, with some flexibility depending on the volunteer's availability.
Website: proempleo.org.mx
Location(s): Various locations throughout Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Amigos de la Calle
Amigos de la Calle is an organization that supports street children and youth, providing them with educational and recreational activities, as well as access to basic services. Volunteers can help with teaching classes, organizing activities, or assisting with administrative tasks. The time commitment is flexible, with volunteers typically dedicating a few hours per week.
Website: amigosdelacalle.org.mx
Location(s): Centro Histórico, Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Recliclando México
Recliclando México is an environmental organization that promotes recycling and waste reduction. Volunteers can participate in recycling campaigns, educational workshops, and community cleanup efforts. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers usually dedicate a few hours per week or participate in weekend activities.
Website: recliclando.org.mx
Location(s): Various locations throughout Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week or weekend activities
Fundación Origen
Fundación Origen is dedicated to improving the lives of children and adolescents in vulnerable situations. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, recreational activities, and mentoring initiatives. The time commitment is typically a few hours per week, with some flexibility depending on the volunteer's availability.
Website: fundacionorigen.org.mx
Location(s): Various locations throughout Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Casa de la Sal
Casa de la Sal is a community center that offers a variety of services, including health care, educational programs, and social support. Volunteers can help with teaching classes, assisting with health campaigns, or organizing community events. The time commitment is flexible, with volunteers typically dedicating a few hours per week.
Website: casadelasal.org.mx
Location(s): Tepito, Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Movimiento de Apoyo a Menores Abandonados (MAMA)
MAMA is an organization that supports abandoned children and youth, providing them with shelter, education, and emotional support. Volunteers can assist with teaching classes, organizing recreational activities, or helping with administrative tasks. The time commitment is typically a few hours per week, with some flexibility depending on the volunteer's availability.
Website: mamaac.org.mx
Location(s): Various locations throughout Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Proyecto Itzaes
Proyecto Itzaes is dedicated to preserving and promoting Mexico's cultural heritage. Volunteers can participate in conservation projects, cultural events, and educational workshops. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers usually dedicate a few hours per week or participate in weekend activities.
Website: proyectoitzaes.org.mx
Location(s): Various locations throughout Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week or weekend activities
Fundación Barra México
Fundación Barra México focuses on promoting social development and community empowerment. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, community development initiatives, and fundraising efforts. The time commitment is typically a few hours per week, with some flexibility depending on the volunteer's availability.
Website: barramexico.org.mx
Location(s): Various locations throughout Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
RescateMX
RescateMX is an organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals in need. Volunteers can help with animal care, adoption events, and fundraising efforts. The time commitment is flexible, with volunteers typically dedicating a few hours per week or participating in weekend activities.
Website: rescatemx.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout Mexico City
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week or weekend activities
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Mexico City
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Mexico City
- Public Transportation in Mexico City
- Best Neighborhoods for Single Digital Nomads Living in Mexico City
- Pros & Cons of Living in Mexico City
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Mexico City
- Best Neighborhoods for Retirees in Mexico City
- Best Neighborhoods for Families in Mexico City
- Best Neighborhoods for Single People in Mexico City
- Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Mexico City
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Mexico City
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Mexico City
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Mexico City
- Public Transportation in Mexico City
- Best Markets in Mexico City
- Retire in Mexico City Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Mexico City
- Pros & Cons of Living in Mexico City
- Driving in Mexico City
- Cost of Living in Mexico City
- Health Care in Mexico City
- The Insider's Guide to Mexico City
- Living in Mexico City
- International Schools in Mexico City
- 7 Best Neighborhoods in Mexico City
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Mexico
- Best Places to Live in Mexico
- Real Estate in Mexico
- Moving to Mexico with a Pet
- What It's Like Living in Mexico City
- Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Mexico
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Mexico


