Volunteer in Russia

Step into another world as a volunteer in fascinating Russia. Here, you will find a land of awe-provoking beauty, from frozen Siberia to exciting Moscow. Russia is a place of enormity – both geographic and cultural. As a volunteer here, you can see the astounding multi-colored towers of St. Basil’s Cathedral and visit dozens of other incredible sites. Take in the culture that created some of the world’s most timeless classical dances, music, art and literature! Russia is the largest country on the planet – nearly twice the size of China or the United States! It is also one of the most populous, but with large uninhabitable areas, almost one-fifth of the population live in just 13 cities. Volunteers in Russia stand amazed by the magnificence and variety of this great nation.

United Planet is the US and Canadian partner of the International Cultural Youth Exchange, or ICYE. As a volunteer in Russia, you will be hosted by Lastochki, ICYE’s Russian partner organization. Lastochki has been committed to promoting international volunteerism since their founding in 1997.

United Planet also offers virtual volunteering and virtual internships in Russia. Learn more about all of our virtual volunteering and virtual internship countries and projects in Europe.

Volunteer in the countries volunteer partner office which, aims to develop positive international relations and spread cultural awareness. Volunteers assist with administrative functions and organize programs to share aspects of their home culture and prepare individuals for successful voluntary experiences.

Work at a local community center for children (ages 2-15), primarily coordinating after-school programs. Help organize activities for the children and assist with homework. Contribute to a kindergarten’s mission of developing its students both morally and psychologically. You may also like to assist at a Waldorf School developing children in a holistic approach.

Devote your time to working in an animal shelter tasked with searching for homes for many types of dogs and some species of cats. The shelter also provides medical care and undergoes rescue missions. Assist in the daily work of the shelter as well as advocating for their mission in different ways.

Work with an organization that aims to help individuals with living with conditions such as down syndrome or physical limitations. Volunteers provide support by spending time with, taking care of, and assisting the adults or children with daily tasks. These projects aim to integrate these individuals into the local community of the Samara region and to promote an independent living philosophy.

This museum was established by Peter the Great almost 300 years ago. It contains one of the World’s largest Anthropologic collections with close to 380,000 items for you to examine.

Travel to Saint Petersburg and visit this iconic landmark. The Church of our Savior on Spilled Blood was built on the same spot where Alexander II was fatally wounded in an assassination attempt on March 1, 1881. His son, Alexander III, wanted to erect a church to honor his father’s memory. This church looks beautiful both during the day and the night. Take the opportunity to look inside and see the amazing mosaics on the walls.

Visit the Kremlin while you are touring Moscow. It is Russia’s political center which also happens to be the residence of the Russian president as well. Another must see while you are in Moscow is the Russian Ballet. Ballet is a huge part of Russia’s history and a perfect opportunity for you to experience a huge part of Russian culture.

Sochi was the site for the 2014 Winter Olympics. It is full of natural beauty, such as its rivers and streams, its mountains that are often used for winter sports, and its beaches that stretch for miles. Take an opportunity to tour this historic resort town that was founded in 1898.

• Extensive pre-departure preparation, including a training weekend in New Hampshire with United Planet staff or online
• Food and lodging in your host country
• Airport transfers
• Emergency medical insurance
• In-country orientation upon arrival and ongoing support and supervision throughout your Quest
• Language training
• Mid-year camp (for 1 year volunteers) and final camp
• Monthly stipend for incidental expenses

• 18 – 35 years old (age requirement is flexible)
• Citizen or resident of the United States or Canada

• Volunteers are responsible for booking and covering the cost of their own flights (including pre-departure training).
• Volunteers will obtain the necessary visas with support from our Long-Term staff to volunteer in their host country.