Volunteering in Munich
Summary: Volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with others in Munich. Here are several organizations you might consider supporting.
Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to integrate into Munich's vibrant community. It offers the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, learn the language, and understand the culture more deeply. By dedicating your time and skills to a cause, you can make a significant difference in the lives of others while enriching your own experience in Germany.
Caritas München
Caritas München is a Catholic welfare organization that provides a wide range of social services. Volunteers can engage in various activities, such as working with refugees, assisting the elderly, or helping in their second-hand shops. To get involved, you can fill out an online form or contact them directly. The time commitment varies depending on the specific activity chosen.
Website: caritasmuenchen.de
Location(s): Various locations throughout Munich
Time Commitment: Varies by activity
Münchner Tafel
Münchner Tafel is dedicated to redistributing surplus food to people in need. Volunteers help with collecting, sorting, and distributing food. You can get involved by contacting them via email or phone. The time commitment is typically a few hours per week, with shifts available on weekdays.
Website: muenchner-tafel.de
Location(s): Central food distribution center and various pick-up points
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Refugio München
Refugio München is a non-profit organization that supports refugees and asylum seekers. Volunteers can assist with language classes, cultural events, and administrative tasks. To get involved, you can attend their volunteer information sessions. The time commitment can range from a few hours a week to more intensive projects.
Website: refugio-muenchen.de
Location(s): Refugio München center
Time Commitment: Varies by project
Tierheim München
Tierheim München is an animal shelter that takes care of abandoned and stray animals. Volunteers can help with dog walking, cat socialization, and general maintenance. To get involved, you can contact them directly for an interview. The time commitment is usually a few hours per week.
Website: tierheim-muenchen.com
Location(s): Tierheim München shelter
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Freunde schaffen Freude
Freunde schaffen Freude is an organization that supports children, teenagers, and families in need. Volunteers can participate in various projects, including mentoring, educational support, and leisure activities. To get involved, you can contact them via email. The time commitment varies depending on the project.
Website: freunde-schaffen-freude.de
Location(s): Various locations throughout Munich
Time Commitment: Varies by project
Bayerisches Rotes Kreuz
Bayerisches Rotes Kreuz is the Bavarian branch of the German Red Cross, offering a wide range of services from first aid to social work. Volunteers can engage in various activities, such as first aid training, emergency services, and social projects. To get involved, you can contact your local branch. The time commitment varies depending on the activity chosen.
Website: brk-muenchen.de
Location(s): Various locations throughout Munich
Time Commitment: Varies by activity
Green City e.V.
Green City e.V. is an environmental organization that promotes sustainable urban development. Volunteers can participate in projects related to urban gardening, mobility, and environmental education. To get involved, you can contact them via email. The time commitment varies depending on the project.
Website: greencity.de
Location(s): Various locations throughout Munich
Time Commitment: Varies by project
Alzheimer Gesellschaft München e.V.
Alzheimer Gesellschaft München e.V. is dedicated to supporting people with dementia and their families. Volunteers can assist with care, support groups, and awareness campaigns. To get involved, you can contact them directly. The time commitment is typically a few hours per week.
Website: alzheimer-muenchen.de
Location(s): Various locations throughout Munich
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Innere Mission München
Innere Mission München is a social welfare organization that provides a wide range of services, including support for the elderly, people with disabilities, and those in need. Volunteers can engage in various activities, such as companionship, assistance with daily tasks, and administrative support. To get involved, you can contact them directly. The time commitment varies depending on the activity chosen.
Website: inneremission-muenchen.de
Location(s): Various locations throughout Munich
Time Commitment: Varies by activity
Münchner Kindl Stiftung
Münchner Kindl Stiftung is a foundation that supports children and young people in need. Volunteers can participate in projects related to education, leisure activities, and mentoring. To get involved, you can contact them via email. The time commitment varies depending on the project.
Website: muenchner-kindl-stiftung.de
Location(s): Various locations throughout Munich
Time Commitment: Varies by project
Malteser Hilfsdienst
Malteser Hilfsdienst is a Catholic aid organization that offers a wide range of services, including first aid, emergency services, and social projects. Volunteers can engage in various activities, such as first aid training, emergency services, and support for the elderly. To get involved, you can contact your local branch. The time commitment varies depending on the activity chosen.
Website: malteser-muenchen.de
Location(s): Various locations throughout Munich
Time Commitment: Varies by activity
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:
- Pros & Cons of Living in Munich
- Tips for Expats Driving in Munich
- Cost of Living in Munich
- Health Care in Munich
- The Insider's Guide to Munich
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Germany
- Best Places to Live in Germany
- Real Estate in Germany
- Pros & Cons of Living in Germany
- How to Buy a Home in Germany
- Pros and Cons of Living in Germany 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Germany