Volunteering in Antwerp
Summary: A great way to meet others in Antwerp is by volunteering. Here are several organizations where you may be interested in helping out.

Volunteering is an excellent way for expats to integrate into the local community of Antwerp. It offers the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, learn the language, and gain a deeper understanding of the culture. By dedicating your time and skills to a cause, you can make a positive impact while also expanding your social network. Antwerp has a vibrant volunteering scene with numerous organizations catering to various interests and commitments.
De Stadsmobiliteit
De Stadsmobiliteit is dedicated to promoting sustainable mobility in Antwerp. Volunteers help with events, workshops, and campaigns aimed at encouraging cycling, walking, and public transport use. You can get involved by registering online, and the time commitment varies based on the events and your availability. It's a great way to connect with environmentally conscious locals.
Website: stadsmobiliteit.be
Location(s): Various locations in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, event-based
Natuurpunt
Natuurpunt is a nature conservation organization that manages several reserves in and around Antwerp. Volunteers assist with tasks like maintaining trails, guiding visitors, and conducting wildlife surveys. You can volunteer occasionally or regularly, with some tasks requiring a few hours and others a full day.
Website: natuurpunt.be
Location(s): Nature reserves in and around Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, from a few hours to a full day
Samu Social
Samu Social is dedicated to helping the homeless and those in need. Volunteers can assist with distributing meals, providing companionship, and supporting various initiatives. The organization offers both regular and one-off volunteering opportunities. This is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable people in Antwerp.
Website: samusocial.be
Location(s): Various locations in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, regular or one-off
De Rode Antraciet
De Rode Antraciet is a community center that organizes various activities for local residents, including workshops, courses, and events. Volunteers can help with event organization, leading workshops, or assisting with administrative tasks. The time commitment is flexible and can be tailored to your availability.
Website: derodeantraciet.be
Location(s): Community centers in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, based on your availability
VZW Buurtpunt
VZW Buurtpunt focuses on community development and support. Volunteers can assist with a range of activities, from organizing community events to providing support services for residents. The organization welcomes both regular and occasional volunteers, making it easy to fit volunteering into your schedule.
Website: buurtpunt.be
Location(s): Various locations in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, regular or occasional
De Kringwinkel
De Kringwinkel is a second-hand shop that supports social and environmental causes. Volunteers help with sorting donations, managing the shop floor, and assisting customers. You can volunteer regularly or occasionally, with shifts typically lasting a few hours. This is a great way to meet people and support sustainable living.
Website: kringwinkel.be
Location(s): Various locations in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, a few hours per shift
Vrijwilligerspunt Antwerpen
Vrijwilligerspunt Antwerpen is a central hub for volunteering opportunities in Antwerp. They connect volunteers with various organizations based on their interests and availability. You can browse their website for current opportunities and apply directly. This is an excellent starting point for expats looking to volunteer in Antwerp.
Website: vrijwilligerspuntantwerpen.be
Location(s): Various locations in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Varies by organization
Antwerpen Mobiel
Antwerpen Mobiel provides transportation services for the elderly and people with disabilities. Volunteers can assist as drivers, companions, or with administrative tasks. The time commitment is flexible and can be tailored to your schedule. This is a rewarding way to support the local community and meet new people.
Website: antwerpenmobiel.be
Location(s): Various locations in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, based on your availability
De Voedselbank
De Voedselbank is a food bank that collects and distributes food to those in need. Volunteers can help with food collection, sorting, and distribution. The organization welcomes both regular and occasional volunteers, making it easy to fit volunteering into your schedule. This is a meaningful way to support the local community.
Website: voedselbanken.be
Location(s): Various locations in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, regular or occasional
Dierenasiel Antwerpen
Dierenasiel Antwerpen is an animal shelter that cares for stray and abandoned animals. Volunteers can assist with animal care, walking dogs, and helping with adoption events. The time commitment is flexible and can be tailored to your availability. This is a great opportunity for animal lovers to make a difference.
Website: dierenasielantwerpen.be
Location(s): Animal shelter in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, based on your availability
De Witte Molen
De Witte Molen is a community farm that focuses on sustainable agriculture and education. Volunteers can help with farming tasks, leading workshops, or assisting with events. The time commitment is flexible and can be tailored to your schedule. This is a unique way to connect with nature and the local community.
Website: wittemolen.be
Location(s): Community farm in Antwerp
Time Commitment: Flexible, based on your availability
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:
- Expat Guide to Antwerp
- Best Neighborhoods for Single Digital Nomads Living in Antwerp
- Pros & Cons of Living in Antwerp
- Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Antwerp
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Antwerp
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Antwerp
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Antwerp
- Public Transportation in Antwerp
- Best Markets in Antwerp
- Retire in Antwerp Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Antwerp
- Pros & Cons of Living in Antwerp
- Driving in Antwerp
- Cost of Living in Antwerp
- Health Care in Antwerp
- The Essential Guide to Antwerp
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Belgium
- Best Places to Live in Belgium
- Real Estate in Belgium
- Pros & Cons of Living in Belgium
- Healthcare in Belgium
- Pros and Cons of Living in Belgium 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Belgium