Volunteering in Johannesburg
Summary: One of the best ways to meet others in Johannesburg is by giving back. Here are a number of organizations where your help would be welcome.
Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to immerse themselves in the local community of Johannesburg. Not only does it provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, but it also offers a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, both locals and fellow expats. By sharing your time and skills, you can make a significant difference in the lives of others while also expanding your social network and deepening your understanding of the city's culture.
Habitat for Humanity South Africa
Habitat for Humanity South Africa is dedicated to providing decent and affordable housing for low-income families. Volunteers can assist in building and renovating homes, as well as supporting advocacy efforts. No prior construction experience is necessary, and volunteers typically commit to a full day or weekend projects. This is a great way to get involved in tangible community development.
Website: habitat.org.za
Location(s): Various sites across Johannesburg
Time Commitment: Full day or weekend projects
Rays of Hope
Rays of Hope focuses on providing support and care to orphans and vulnerable children in Alexandra Township. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, after-school activities, and community outreach initiatives. The time commitment varies, but most volunteers dedicate a few hours per week or participate in special events.
Website: raysofhope.co.za
Location(s): Alexandra Township
Time Commitment: A few hours per week or special events
Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital
The Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital cares for injured and orphaned wildlife. Volunteers can help with animal care, rehabilitation, and educational programs. This opportunity is perfect for animal lovers and those interested in conservation. Volunteers typically commit to a few hours per week or participate in special projects.
Website: jwvh.org.za
Location(s): Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital
Time Commitment: A few hours per week or special projects
Afrika Tikkun
Afrika Tikkun aims to empower disadvantaged youth through education, health, and social development programs. Volunteers can assist with tutoring, mentoring, and various community initiatives. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities to volunteer a few hours per week or participate in special events.
Website: afrikatikkun.org
Location(s): Various communities in Johannesburg
Time Commitment: Flexible, a few hours per week or special events
Santa Shoebox Project
The Santa Shoebox Project is an annual initiative that provides personalized gifts to underprivileged children during the festive season. Volunteers can help with packing and distributing shoeboxes, as well as organizing fundraising events. This is a seasonal commitment, typically from September to December.
Website: santashoebox.org.za
Location(s): Various locations in Johannesburg
Time Commitment: Seasonal, September to December
HospiceWits
HospiceWits provides palliative care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses. Volunteers can assist with patient care, administrative tasks, and fundraising events. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities to volunteer a few hours per week or as needed for events.
Website: hospicewits.co.za
Location(s): HospiceWits facilities and various locations
Time Commitment: Flexible, a few hours per week or as needed
The Teddy Bear Clinic
The Teddy Bear Clinic offers support and counseling services to abused and neglected children. Volunteers can assist with administrative tasks, fundraising, and special events. The time commitment varies, but most volunteers dedicate a few hours per week or participate in special projects.
Website: teddybearclinic.co.za
Location(s): The Teddy Bear Clinic and various locations
Time Commitment: A few hours per week or special projects
FoodForward SA
FoodForward SA aims to reduce hunger by collecting surplus food and redistributing it to those in need. Volunteers can assist with food sorting, packing, and distribution. This opportunity requires a time commitment of a few hours per week or participation in special events.
Website: foodforwardsa.org
Location(s): FoodForward SA warehouse and various locations
Time Commitment: A few hours per week or special events
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo is responsible for maintaining the city's parks and green spaces. Volunteers can assist with gardening, conservation projects, and educational programs. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities to volunteer a few hours per week or participate in special projects.
Website: jhbcityparks.com
Location(s): Various parks and green spaces in Johannesburg
Time Commitment: Flexible, a few hours per week or special projects
Gift of the Givers
Gift of the Givers is a disaster response organization that provides aid and relief to communities in need. Volunteers can assist with fundraising, collecting and distributing supplies, and supporting disaster response efforts. The time commitment varies depending on the current needs and projects.
Website: giftofthegivers.org
Location(s): Various locations in Johannesburg
Time Commitment: Varies depending on needs and 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.
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