Volunteering in Antalya
Summary: Volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with others in Antalya. Here are several organizations you might consider supporting.
Antalya, the stunning coastal city of Turkey, is not only a paradise for tourists but also a hub of opportunities for expats looking to give back to the community. Volunteering in Antalya can be an enriching experience, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the local culture, learn the language, and make meaningful connections. For expats, volunteering is a fantastic way to meet other people, both locals and fellow internationals, while contributing to worthwhile causes. Whether you're passionate about environmental conservation, education, or social welfare, Antalya has a variety of organizations that welcome the skills and enthusiasm of volunteers. Let's explore some specific volunteer organizations where you can make a difference and find a sense of community in this beautiful Turkish city.
Tarsus Animal Rescue
Tarsus Animal Rescue is dedicated to the welfare of stray and abandoned animals in and around Antalya. Volunteers can help with feeding, shelter maintenance, and providing care to the animals. The organization also educates the public on responsible pet ownership. Volunteering here is flexible, with opportunities ranging from a few hours a week to more intensive commitments for those who are passionate about animal welfare.
Website: tarsusanimalrescue.org
Location(s): Various locations in Antalya
Time Commitment: Flexible, with a minimum of 2 hours per week
Antalya International Women's Association (AIWA)
The Antalya International Women's Association (AIWA) is a network that supports expat women and organizes charity events for local causes. Volunteering with AIWA can involve event planning, fundraising, and community outreach. It's a great way to meet other expat women and contribute to the local community. The time commitment varies depending on the event and the role you take on.
Website: aiwa.org.tr
Location(s): Antalya and surrounding areas
Time Commitment: Varies by event and role
Antalya Education Volunteers Foundation (AGEV)
AGEV focuses on improving educational opportunities for underprivileged children in Antalya. Volunteers can assist with tutoring, organizing educational activities, and providing language instruction. This is an excellent opportunity for expats to help children and youth while practicing their Turkish. The commitment can range from a few hours a week to more involved projects.
Website: agev.org.tr
Location(s): Various educational centers in Antalya
Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week
Antalya Cultural Heritage Preservation
This organization is dedicated to preserving the rich historical and cultural heritage of Antalya. Volunteers can participate in restoration projects, guided tours, and educational workshops. It's a unique way to learn about the city's history and contribute to its conservation. The time commitment depends on the project, but it's generally flexible.
Website: Currently not available
Location(s): Historical sites in Antalya
Time Commitment: Project-based, flexible
Antalya Environment and Nature Association
For those passionate about the environment, this association works on projects related to conservation, sustainability, and environmental education. Volunteers can get involved in beach clean-ups, tree planting, and awareness campaigns. The commitment can be as little as a few hours for a clean-up event or more for ongoing projects.
Website: Currently not available
Location(s): Various natural sites in Antalya
Time Commitment: Flexible, event-based
Antalya Social Support and Solidarity Foundation
This foundation provides assistance to families and individuals in need throughout Antalya. Volunteers can help with food distribution, clothing drives, and support services. It's a way to directly impact the lives of those facing economic hardships. Time commitment can vary from occasional volunteering to regular weekly hours.
Website: Currently not available
Location(s): Antalya city and surrounding areas
Time Commitment: Flexible, with options for regular or occasional volunteering
Antalya Arts and Culture Association
Art and culture enthusiasts can volunteer with this association, which promotes the arts and cultural activities in the city. Opportunities include event organization, promotion, and participation in cultural events. This is a great way to experience the local art scene and meet like-minded individuals. Volunteers can choose their level of involvement, from one-off events to ongoing projects.
Website: Currently not available
Location(s): Various cultural venues in Antalya
Time Commitment: Varies by event and project
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.