Volunteering in Winterthur
Summary: Getting involved through volunteering is a fantastic way to build connections in Winterthur. Here are some organizations where you can lend a hand.
Moving to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging experience. Volunteering is a wonderful way to integrate into the local community, meet new people, and contribute positively to your new home. Winterthur, offers a variety of volunteering opportunities that cater to different interests and skills. Whether you're interested in education, environmental conservation, or social work, there's a place for you to make a difference. By volunteering, you not only help others but also expand your social network, improve your language skills, and gain a deeper understanding of Swiss culture.
Pro Juventute
Pro Juventute is a national organization dedicated to supporting children and youth in Switzerland. They offer various programs focusing on education, health, and social integration. Volunteers can engage in mentoring, tutoring, or leading workshops. The time commitment varies depending on the chosen activity, usually ranging from 2 hours per week to occasional weekend events.
Website: projuventute.ch
Location(s): Various locations in Winterthur
Time Commitment: 2 hours per week or occasional weekends
Schweizerischer Fischerei-Verband (SFV)
The Swiss Fisheries Association (SFV) is committed to preserving Switzerland's aquatic environments. Volunteers can participate in river clean-ups, fish population monitoring, and educational events. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities for one-time events or regular involvement.
Website: sfv-fsp.ch
Location(s): Various outdoor locations in Winterthur
Time Commitment: Flexible, one-time events or regular involvement
Caritas Winterthur
Caritas Winterthur focuses on social welfare and supports individuals and families in need. Volunteers can help with food distribution, accompany people to appointments, or assist in social projects. The time commitment is usually a few hours per week, depending on the project.
Website: caritas-winterthur.ch
Location(s): Caritas centers in Winterthur
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Pro Senectute
Pro Senectute is dedicated to improving the quality of life for the elderly. Volunteers can offer companionship, assist with errands, or participate in intergenerational projects. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities for regular visits or one-time events.
Website: pro-senectute.ch
Location(s): Various locations in Winterthur
Time Commitment: Flexible, regular visits or one-time events
WWF Schweiz
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Schweiz works to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the environment. Volunteers can participate in conservation projects, educational programs, and fundraising events. The time commitment varies, with opportunities for one-time events or regular involvement.
Website: wwf.ch
Location(s): Various locations in Winterthur
Time Commitment: Flexible, one-time events or regular involvement
Rote Kreuz Winterthur
The Red Cross Winterthur provides a range of services, including first aid, blood donation, and social support. Volunteers can assist in various programs, from first aid courses to visiting services for the elderly. The time commitment depends on the chosen activity, usually a few hours per week or month.
Website: redcross-winterthur.ch
Location(s): Red Cross centers in Winterthur
Time Commitment: A few hours per week or month
Verein Wildtierstation Züri
The Verein Wildtierstation Züri is a wildlife rescue center that cares for injured and orphaned wild animals. Volunteers can help with animal care, maintenance of facilities, and educational programs. The time commitment is usually a few hours per week, with opportunities for regular shifts.
Website: wildtierstation-zueri.ch
Location(s): Wildtierstation Züri
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
Samariter Winterthur
Samariter Winterthur provides first aid training and emergency medical services. Volunteers can assist in first aid courses, provide support during events, or participate in emergency response teams. The time commitment varies, with opportunities for regular training sessions and occasional events.
Website: samariter-winterthur.ch
Location(s): Samariter centers in Winterthur
Time Commitment: Regular training sessions and occasional events
SPC Zürcher Tierschutz
The Society for the Protection of Animals (SPC) Zürcher Tierschutz is dedicated to animal welfare and rescue. Volunteers can help with animal care, adoption events, and educational programs. The time commitment is flexible, with opportunities for regular shifts or one-time events.
Website: zuerchertierschutz.ch
Location(s): SPC centers in Winterthur
Time Commitment: Flexible, regular shifts or one-time events
Kinderdorf Pestalozzi
Kinderdorf Pestalozzi is an organization that supports children and families in need, providing educational and social programs. Volunteers can assist in various projects, from tutoring to organizing events. The time commitment is usually a few hours per week, depending on the project.
Website: pestalozzi.ch
Location(s): Kinderdorf Pestalozzi centers in Winterthur
Time Commitment: A few hours per week
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 Winterthur
- Cost of Living in Winterthur
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Switzerland
- Best Places to Live in Switzerland
- Real Estate in Switzerland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Switzerland
- Homeschooling in Switzerland
- Pros and Cons of Living in Switzerland 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Switzerland