Janice P. Says:
When I retire, I want to use my time to give back to the community I live in. Are there many opportunities for volunteering like this in Spain?
IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says:
Hi Janice,
There are lots of opportunities to give back to your community in Spain through volunteer work. Once you settle in your new home, a simple Google search will turn up charity shops, animal shelters, churches, meditation centers, and other organizations seeking help.
A popular and rewarding opportunity is serving as a native English-speaking volunteer in an English immersion program like Estación Inglesa. An equal number of Spaniards learning English and native English speakers go to a resort for a week where only English is spoken.
Room and board are free in exchange for participating in all activities, which means talking to people about 10 hours a day. Besides one-to-one conversations, you will participate in group discussions, team projects, guided tours, games, and amateur theater.
As well as having fun, you’re likely to make new friends—both locals and fellow volunteers.
You should also check out this list of volunteer programs in Spain to see if any appeal to you. Some may charge a fee to participate, so be sure to read all the fine print.
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