Volunteering in Almaty
Summary: A great way to meet others in Almaty is by volunteering. Here are several organizations where you may be interested in helping out.
Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to immerse themselves in the local community of Almaty. It offers a unique opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, both locals and fellow expats, while contributing to meaningful causes. By sharing your time and skills, you can help make a positive impact and gain a deeper understanding of the city's culture and people. Moreover, volunteering can enhance your language skills, provide networking opportunities, and foster lasting friendships.
Red Crescent of Kazakhstan
The Red Crescent of Kazakhstan is a prominent humanitarian organization that focuses on disaster relief, health care, and social welfare. Volunteers can participate in various activities, such as providing first aid during events, assisting in disaster preparedness, and supporting health and social care projects. To get involved, you can contact the local branch in Almaty. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers typically contribute a few hours per week.
Website: redcrescent.kz
Location(s): Almaty Branch
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Botanical Garden of Almaty
Nature lovers may find volunteering at the Botanical Garden of Almaty appealing. Volunteers help with gardening, maintenance, and educational programs. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about local flora and fauna while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. You can contact the garden's administration to inquire about volunteering opportunities, which usually require a few hours per week.
Website: botgarden.kz
Location(s): Botanical Garden of Almaty
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
SOS Children's Villages Kazakhstan
SOS Children's Villages Kazakhstan is dedicated to supporting children without parental care. Volunteers can assist with educational activities, organize leisure events, and provide mentorship. To get involved, you can contact the local office in Almaty. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities ranging from one-time events to regular weekly activities.
Website: sos-kazakhstan.org
Location(s): Almaty Office
Time Commitment: Flexible, from one-time events to regular weekly activities
Almaty Marathon
For sports enthusiasts, volunteering at the Almaty Marathon is a great way to get involved in the local community. Volunteers help with event organization, registration, and supporting runners along the course. The marathon takes place annually, and volunteers typically contribute a full day of support during the event.
Website: almaty-marathon.kz
Location(s): Various locations along the marathon route
Time Commitment: One full day during the event
Almaty Zoo
Animal lovers can volunteer at the Almaty Zoo, assisting with animal care, park maintenance, and educational programs. This is a unique opportunity to learn about various animal species and contribute to their well-being. You can contact the zoo's administration to inquire about volunteering opportunities, which usually require a few hours per week.
Website: almatyzoo.kz
Location(s): Almaty Zoo
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
EcoMuseum Karaganda
The EcoMuseum Karaganda focuses on environmental education and conservation. Volunteers can assist with educational programs, exhibitions, and research projects. While the museum is based in Karaganda, it often organizes events and expeditions in the Almaty region. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers typically contribute a few hours per week.
Website: ecomuseum.kz
Location(s): Almaty region events and expeditions
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Special Olympics Kazakhstan
Special Olympics Kazakhstan provides sports training and competition opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Volunteers can assist with coaching, event organization, and fundraising. To get involved, you can contact the local office in Almaty. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities ranging from one-time events to regular weekly activities.
Website: specialolympics.kz
Location(s): Almaty Office
Time Commitment: Flexible, from one-time events to regular weekly activities
UNICEF Kazakhstan
UNICEF Kazakhstan works to promote the rights and well-being of children. Volunteers can support advocacy campaigns, fundraising events, and educational initiatives. To get involved, you can contact the local office in Almaty. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers typically contribute a few hours per week.
Website: unicef.kz
Location(s): Almaty Office
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Almaty City Administration - Green Almaty
The Green Almaty initiative aims to improve the city's green spaces and promote environmental awareness. Volunteers can participate in tree planting, park clean-up, and environmental education campaigns. To get involved, you can contact the Almaty City Administration. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers typically contribute a few hours per month.
Website: greenalmaty.kz
Location(s): Various parks and green spaces in Almaty
Time Commitment: A few hours per month
Kazakhstan Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
The Kazakhstan Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies focus on disaster relief, health care, and social welfare. Volunteers can participate in various activities, such as providing first aid during events, assisting in disaster preparedness, and supporting health and social care projects. To get involved, you can contact the local branch in Almaty. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers typically contribute a few hours per week.
Website: redcross.kz
Location(s): Almaty Branch
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Almaty City Administration - Social Services
The Social Services department of the Almaty City Administration provides assistance to vulnerable individuals and families. Volunteers can support social welfare programs, assist with food distribution, and participate in community outreach initiatives. To get involved, you can contact the Almaty City Administration. The time commitment varies depending on the project, but volunteers typically contribute a few hours per week.
Website: almaty.gov.kz
Location(s): Various locations throughout Almaty
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
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 Almaty
- Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Almaty
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Almaty
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Almaty
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Almaty
- Public Transportation in Almaty
- Best Markets in Almaty
- Retire in Almaty Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Almaty
- Pros & Cons of Living in Almaty
- Driving in Almaty
- Cost of Living in Almaty
- Health Care in Almaty
- Discovering the Best of Almaty
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Kazakhstan
- Best Places to Live in Kazakhstan
- Pros & Cons of Living in Kazakhstan
- Homeschooling in Kazakhstan
- Pros and Cons of Living in Kazakhstan 2026


