Volunteering in Merida
Summary: One of the best ways to meet others in Merida is by giving back. Here are a number of organizations where your help would be welcome.
Volunteering is a wonderful way for expats to immerse themselves in the local community of Merida. It provides an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, practice Spanish, and gain a deeper understanding of the city and its culture. By dedicating your time and skills to a cause, you can make a positive impact while also building a social network. There are numerous organizations in Merida that welcome volunteers, ranging from environmental conservation and animal welfare to education and community development.
Merida English Library
The Merida English Library is a popular destination for English-speaking expats. It serves as a cultural center, offering a variety of programs, including English classes, workshops, and cultural events. Volunteers can assist with teaching, event planning, or library operations. The time commitment varies, with opportunities available for both regular and occasional volunteering.
Website: meridaenglishlibrary.com
Location(s): Calle 53 No. 524 x 66 y 68, Centro, Merida
Time Commitment: Flexible, from 2 hours per week
Centro de Apoyo a la Mujer (CAM)
CAM is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting women and children who have experienced domestic violence. Volunteers can help with administrative tasks, fundraising, or assisting in the shelter. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities for both short-term and long-term volunteering.
Website: centroapoyomujer.org
Location(s): Calle 35 No. 246-D x 16 y 18, Colonia García Ginerés, Merida
Time Commitment: Flexible, from 2 hours per week
Parque Zoológico del Centenario
The Centenario Zoo is a popular attraction in Merida and is always in need of volunteers. Opportunities include assisting with animal care, maintenance, and educational programs. Volunteers typically commit to at least one day per week.
Website: zoomerida.com
Location(s): Avenida Itzaes, Merida
Time Commitment: At least 1 day per week
Fundación BAI
Fundación BAI is dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. Volunteers can participate in various projects, including reforestation, beach clean-ups, and environmental education. The time commitment varies depending on the project, with opportunities for both short-term and long-term volunteering.
Website: fundacionbai.org
Location(s): Varies by project
Time Commitment: Project-dependent, from 1 day to long-term
Evolución Animal A.C.
Evolución Animal is an animal welfare organization that focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating stray animals. Volunteers can help with animal care, adoptions, and fundraising events. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities for both regular and occasional volunteering.
Website: evolucionanimal.org
Location(s): Calle 21 No. 196-D x 18 y 20, Colonia México, Merida
Time Commitment: Flexible, from 2 hours per week
Compassion Connection Mexico
Compassion Connection Mexico is a non-profit organization that supports various community development projects in the Yucatan region. Volunteers can participate in projects related to education, health, and community infrastructure. The time commitment varies depending on the project.
Website: compassionconnectionmexico.org
Location(s): Varies by project
Time Commitment: Project-dependent
Olimpo Cultural
Olimpo Cultural is a cultural center that offers a variety of workshops, classes, and events. Volunteers can assist with teaching, event planning, or administrative tasks. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities for both regular and occasional volunteering.
Website: olimpocultural.com
Location(s): Calle 60 No. 471 x 55 y 57, Centro, Merida
Time Commitment: Flexible, from 2 hours per week
Parque de las Americas
Parque de las Americas is a community park that hosts various cultural and recreational activities. Volunteers can help with event planning, park maintenance, and community programs. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities for both regular and occasional volunteering.
Website: parquedelasamericas.com
Location(s): Avenida Colon, Merida
Time Commitment: Flexible, from 2 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 Merida
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Merida
- Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Merida
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Merida
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Merida
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Merida
- Public Transportation in Merida
- Best Markets in Merida
- Retire in Merida Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Merida
- Pros & Cons of Living in Merida
- Tips for Expats Driving in Merida
- Cost of Living in Merida
- Health Care in Merida
- The Essential Guide to Merida
- Living in Merida, Mexico
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Mexico
- Best Places to Live in Mexico
- Real Estate in Mexico
- Healthcare in Mexico
- What It's Like Living in Merida
- Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Mexico
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Mexico