Volunteering in Dordogne
Summary: Getting involved through volunteering is a fantastic way to build connections in Dordogne. Here are some organizations where you can lend a hand.
Moving to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging experience. Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to integrate into the local community, meet new people, and make a positive impact. Dordogne, offers a variety of volunteering opportunities that cater to different interests and skills. By dedicating your time and effort to these causes, you can foster meaningful connections with like-minded individuals and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture.
Restos du Cœur
Restos du Cœur is a prominent French charity that provides meals and assistance to those in need. Volunteers can help with food distribution, administrative tasks, or fundraising events. The organization welcomes volunteers for regular weekly shifts or one-time events. Engaging with Restos du Cœur allows you to support a critical cause while practicing your French and interacting with locals.
Website: restosducoeur.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout Dordogne
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically 2-3 hours per week
Secours Catholique
Secours Catholique is dedicated to fighting poverty and exclusion. Volunteers can assist with food banks, clothing distribution, or support programs for isolated individuals. The organization seeks volunteers who can commit to regular shifts, fostering a sense of community among volunteers and beneficiaries alike.
Website: secours-catholique.org
Location(s): Multiple locations in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Regular shifts, usually 2-4 hours per week
Emmaüs
Emmaüs is an international movement that fights against poverty and homelessness. Volunteers can help with sorting and selling second-hand goods, providing support to communities in need. Emmaüs offers a flexible volunteering schedule, making it easy to get involved based on your availability.
Website: emmaus-france.org
Location(s): Several communities in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Flexible, can be arranged according to your schedule
La Croix-Rouge française
The French Red Cross provides a wide range of services, including emergency response, first aid training, and social support. Volunteers can assist with various activities depending on their skills and interests. La Croix-Rouge offers training opportunities for volunteers, enhancing both personal and professional development.
Website: croix-rouge.fr
Location(s): Various locations in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Varies based on the role, typically 2-4 hours per week
Les Amis de la Terre
Les Amis de la Terre is an environmental organization focused on sustainable development and conservation. Volunteers can participate in campaigns, events, and educational programs aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues. This is an excellent opportunity for expats interested in environmental causes.
Website: amisdelaterre.org
Location(s): Various locations in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Flexible, depending on the project or event
Le Secours populaire français
Le Secours populaire français is dedicated to providing assistance to families in need, particularly in areas such as health, education, and food security. Volunteers can help with food drives, educational support, and holiday camps for children. The organization welcomes volunteers for both regular and one-time commitments.
Website: secourspopulaire.fr
Location(s): Multiple locations in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Flexible, can be arranged based on your availability
La Ligue contre le cancer
La Ligue contre le cancer is a non-profit organization dedicated to fighting cancer and supporting those affected by the disease. Volunteers can assist with awareness campaigns, fundraising events, and support services for patients and their families. Engaging with La Ligue contre le cancer is a meaningful way to contribute to a significant cause.
Website: ligue-cancer.net
Location(s): Various locations in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Flexible, depending on the role and availability
SOS Villages d'Enfants
SOS Villages d'Enfants provides care and support for children who have lost parental care or are at risk of losing it. Volunteers can assist with various activities such as tutoring, recreational programs, and administrative tasks. This organization offers a chance to make a positive impact on the lives of children in need.
Website: sosve.org
Location(s): Various locations in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Typically 2-4 hours per week
Les Restos du Cœur
Les Restos du Cœur focuses on providing food assistance and support to those in need. Volunteers can help with food distribution, fundraising, and administrative tasks. The organization welcomes volunteers for regular shifts or one-time events, offering a flexible way to get involved and support the community.
Website: restosducoeur.org
Location(s): Various locations throughout Dordogne
Time Commitment: Flexible, typically 2-3 hours per week
La Banque Alimentaire
La Banque Alimentaire is dedicated to collecting and redistributing surplus food to those in need. Volunteers can assist with food collection, sorting, and distribution. This organization offers a flexible volunteering schedule, making it easy to contribute based on your availability.
Website: banquealimentaire.org
Location(s): Various locations in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Flexible, can be arranged according to your schedule
Les Blouses Roses
Les Blouses Roses is an organization that provides companionship and support to hospitalized individuals, particularly children and the elderly. Volunteers can engage in activities such as reading, playing games, and offering emotional support. This is a rewarding opportunity to bring joy and comfort to those in need.
Website: lesblousesroses.asso.fr
Location(s): Hospitals throughout Dordogne
Time Commitment: Typically 2-4 hours per week
La Fondation Abbé Pierre
La Fondation Abbé Pierre is committed to fighting homelessness and improving housing conditions for those in need. Volunteers can assist with awareness campaigns, fundraising, and support programs for individuals and families. Engaging with this organization is a meaningful way to contribute to a critical cause.
Website: fondation-abbe-pierre.fr
Location(s): Various locations in Dordogne
Time Commitment: Flexible, depending on the role and availability
Volunteering in Dordogne offers a variety of opportunities to make a positive impact while integrating into the local community. Whether you are passionate about environmental conservation, social support, or healthcare, there is an organization that aligns with your interests. By dedicating your time and effort, you can foster meaningful connections and enhance your experience as an expat in France.
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:
- Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Dordogne
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Dordogne
- Public Transportation in Dordogne
- Best Markets in Dordogne
- Retire in Dordogne Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Dordogne
- Pros & Cons of Living in Dordogne
- The Insider's Guide to Dordogne
- Health Care in Dordogne
- Cost of Living in Dordogne
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in France
- Best Places to Live in France
- Real Estate in France
- Pros & Cons of Living in France
- Paris Through Expatriate Eyes' Terrance Gelenter
- Pros and Cons of Living in France 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to France