Volunteering in Frankfurt
Summary: Volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with others in Frankfurt. Here are several organizations you might consider supporting.
Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to immerse themselves in the local community of Frankfurt. Not only does it provide an opportunity to give back and make a difference, but it also serves as a great avenue to meet other like-minded people, learn the language, and understand the culture more deeply. Frankfurt, being a bustling city with a strong sense of community, offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities.
Frankfurter Tafel
Frankfurter Tafel is a food bank that collects surplus food from supermarkets, bakeries, and farmers to distribute to those in need. Volunteers help with collecting, sorting, and distributing food. To get involved, you can contact them directly through their website. The time commitment is flexible, with shifts usually lasting a few hours.
Website: frankfurter-tafel.de
Location(s): Various collection and distribution points across Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Flexible, usually a few hours per shift
Caritas Frankfurt
Caritas Frankfurt is a social welfare organization that offers a wide range of services, including support for the elderly, refugees, and people with disabilities. Volunteers can choose from various roles based on their interests and skills. Training is provided for most roles. Volunteering commitments can vary from a few hours a week to more intensive projects.
Website: caritas-frankfurt.de
Location(s): Various locations across Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Varies from a few hours a week to project-based commitments
Frankfurt Zoological Society
The Frankfurt Zoological Society focuses on conservation efforts both locally and internationally. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, events, and administrative tasks. The society encourages long-term commitments due to the nature of the work. Prior experience or knowledge in conservation is beneficial but not always required.
Website: fzs.org
Location(s): Frankfurt Zoo and other project sites
Time Commitment: Long-term commitments preferred, hours vary
Frankfurt International School (FIS)
The Frankfurt International School offers various volunteering opportunities for expats interested in education and working with children. Volunteers can assist with classroom activities, school events, and extracurricular programs. The school welcomes both short-term and long-term commitments, depending on the role.
Website: fis.edu
Location(s): FIS campuses in Oberursel and Wiesbaden
Time Commitment: Varies, from a few hours a week to regular commitments
Frankfurter Verband für Alten- und Behindertenhilfe
This organization focuses on providing support and care for the elderly and people with disabilities. Volunteers can assist with various activities, including companionship, recreational programs, and administrative tasks. Training and support are provided to ensure volunteers are well-prepared for their roles. Commitments can range from a few hours a week to more intensive involvement.
Website: frankfurter-verband.de
Location(s): Various care facilities and community centers in Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Flexible, from a few hours a week to more intensive roles
Frankfurter Tierheim
The Frankfurter Tierheim is an animal shelter that cares for abandoned and stray animals. Volunteers can help with animal care, walking dogs, cleaning, and administrative tasks. The shelter offers training and support for new volunteers. Time commitments are flexible, with shifts typically lasting a few hours.
Website: frankfurter-tierheim.com
Location(s): Animal shelter in Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Flexible, usually a few hours per shift
Refugee Support Frankfurt
This organization provides support and integration services for refugees in Frankfurt. Volunteers can assist with language classes, cultural activities, and administrative tasks. The organization welcomes both short-term and long-term commitments, with training provided for most roles. Volunteering here is a great way to make a direct impact on the lives of newcomers to the city.
Website: refugee-support-frankfurt.de
Location(s): Various community centers and refugee shelters in Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Flexible, from a few hours a week to more intensive projects
Frankfurt Green City
Frankfurt Green City is an environmental organization that focuses on urban gardening, sustainability, and green initiatives. Volunteers can participate in gardening projects, educational programs, and community events. The organization welcomes both short-term and long-term commitments, with flexible hours to accommodate volunteers' schedules.
Website: frankfurt-greencity.de
Location(s): Various urban gardens and green spaces in Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Flexible, from a few hours a week to project-based commitments
Frankfurter Kinderbüro
The Frankfurter Kinderbüro is dedicated to promoting the rights and welfare of children in Frankfurt. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, recreational activities, and community events. The organization welcomes both short-term and long-term commitments, with training provided for most roles. This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in working with children and youth.
Website: frankfurter-kinderbuero.de
Location(s): Various schools and community centers in Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Flexible, from a few hours a week to more intensive projects
Frankfurter Blindenverein
The Frankfurter Blindenverein supports individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Volunteers can assist with reading services, companionship, and recreational activities. The organization provides training and support for volunteers. Time commitments are flexible, with shifts typically lasting a few hours.
Website: frankfurter-blindenverein.de
Location(s): Various community centers and support facilities in Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Flexible, usually a few hours per shift
Frankfurt English Speaking Playgroup
This playgroup is designed for English-speaking families in Frankfurt. Volunteers can assist with organizing and running playgroup sessions, which include educational and recreational activities for children. The playgroup welcomes both short-term and long-term commitments, with flexible hours to accommodate volunteers' schedules. This is a great way to meet other expat families and support the community.
Website: frankfurt-playgroup.de
Location(s): Various community centers and playgrounds in Frankfurt
Time Commitment: Flexible, from a few hours a week to more intensive projects
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 Frankfurt
- Cost of Living in Frankfurt
- Health Care in Frankfurt
- The Insider's Guide to Frankfurt
- 5 Tips for Living in Frankfurt
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Germany
- Best Places to Live in Germany
- Real Estate in Germany
- Pros & Cons of Living in Germany
- 8 Best Places to Live in Germany
- What It's Like Living in Frankfurt
- Pros and Cons of Living in Germany 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Germany


