List of 13 Volunteer Opportunities in Senegal in 2025

Like its emblematic baobab tree, Senegal stands strong against the challenges associated with being in a part of the world that struggles economically, but they are working hard to change that. And you can help. 

The people of Senegal pride themselves in being a part of a stable and peaceful democracy blessed with friendly folk, great beaches, beautiful architecture dating from the French colonial period of its history, and a proud heritage of social inclusion. 

However, in spite of all its beauty, its kind and gentle culture, and the willingness of its people to work hard, the Senegalese people struggle from a lack of economic opportunity. In fact, Senegal is considered one of the least developed and over-indebted countries in the world. According to worlddata.info, the average annual income is equivalent to 1,660 US dollars.

Senegal also struggles with gender inequalities, including female genital mutilation, a lack of clean drinking water (bottled water is readily available, but another cost of living factor), and lack of employment, even for the lucky ones who have received a good education, which drives many youth to attempt dangerous voyages to reach Europe, voyages which too often end in death by drowning, and more. However, the Senegalese people are resilient and are working hard to combat these and other difficulties in everyday life. Your understanding and willingness to help will not go unappreciated!

In this article, we will explore what it means to help by offering your time as a volunteer in Senegal by spotlighting the work of Friends of Senegal and our partner on the ground, Maison de la Gare, and ten other non-profit organizations that work with local communities in Senegal. 

Volunteer With Us

Why Volunteer in Senegal?

Senegal is a beautiful country with beautiful people. Volunteering means interacting with the wonders of Senegal while contributing to causes that improve lives. 

People often embark on volunteer excursions to touch the lives of others, only to find out that what they receive is as great or greater than what they give. Senegal and its people will make lasting marks on your heart as you participate in the communities, improve your French, or perhaps learn one of the local languages, and immerse yourself in the colorful and charming West African culture. 

As a volunteer in Senegal, you will have a culturally enriching and educational experience as you dedicate your time and skills to helping communities strive toward greater empowerment, self-achievement, and economic stability.

Together, we can bridge the gaps between individual abilities and community needs, fostering connection and understanding while creating a better world for the future. 

senegal volunteering opportunities

Volunteers from Maison de la Gare.

Real Volunteers With Real Experiences

Here’s what real volunteers have said about the impact of volunteering with Maison de la Gare, our nonprofit partner in Saint Louis, Senegal:

“I came to Senegal expecting to discover a new culture, gain experience teaching, improve my French, and support a cause that was bigger than me. Looking back on it, I gained so much more. It sounds cliché, but being in Senegal changed me in a way. Before coming to West Africa, I, like many Americans, had little understanding of how the non-Western world works and struggles. Being exposed to a different way of life and the realities of living in a developing country made me reflect and reconsider many aspects of my life at home.”

“Going to Senegal is the best decision I have ever made. It made me believe even more in the fact that we are all just humans and share the same basic traits, values, and goals in life. I got to see things in a different light, and I learned to understand my own problems from a new perspective. I was given the chance to meet people who really know what hard work means and the importance of it. People who are passionate about something and strive to contribute to the greater good. There is no way I can explain how much they inspire me, and I am forever grateful for the love and compassion they have shown me.”

“The Senegalese taught me how to share, how to make the most of what you have, how to take care of the people you love, and to take your time. I will never forget that. I came back to Norway with a new vision of my life. I am grateful to have been born in one of the most developed countries in the world. In comparison, the talibés deserve the opportunity to have a better future.

Thank you, Maison de la Gare, for helping us to help these talibé children. We will never stop doing that. And thank you to all the children who have given me so many irreplaceable experiences and a new perspective on life.” 

Liem, Frida, and Mari’s experiences are just a few of thousands. As a volunteer with organizations like Friends of Senegal, in partnership with Maison de la Gare, you have an opportunity to make a lasting change in your life and the lives of those around you.

List of 13 Volunteer Opportunities in Senegal

Option #1: Friends of Senegal

Friends of Senegal is a US registered non-profit (501(c)(3), unaffiliated with any religious or governmental organization, that offers business classes, interest-free microfinance loans,and long-term coaching to motivated and promising entrepreneurs in Senegal. 

While our work strives to offer economic growth and upward mobility for Senegalese youth and adults, we are not in the business of making a profit, as are the vast majority of organizations and all of the commercial banks that make such loans, typically at interest around 35%. 

While it is true that the lender’s costs associated with microfinance loans are very high due to the small amount of each loan and the hands-on nature of the work with inexperienced borrowers, FOS chooses to pay for its operating and overhead expenses through donations made by caring people like you, modest fees paid by volunteers who participate in our program, and lastly, through a one-time fee of 10% of the amount of the loan for first-time borrowers and a 5% fee on additional loans to the same borrower. 

However, it should be noted that each FOS/MDG borrower receives up to two months of free business training before even being granted a loan, as well as 12 months of very close follow-up and support after the loan is made. One hundred percent of reimbursed funds go back into the pool of funds available for future borrowers, which is the powerful gift of the program: funds are used over and over again, helping countless numbers of individuals and families improve their lives and those of their children. 

As mentioned above, every year, thousands of young men from Senegal attempt a treacherous voyage in small, very unsafe canoes through the Atlantic Ocean to the Canary Islands in search of better job opportunities. A journey that hundreds do not survive.

Friends of Senegal offers a different route. By empowering impoverished men and women with entrepreneurial education and opportunities, we help people attain the skills and funds they need to create or advance their businesses while also stimulating the local economy and making a difference in their communities. 

Here are some stories of lives touched by Friends of Senegal and its volunteers:

 

Omar Ba

volunteer opportunities in senegalLike many others, Omar Ba started his career selling 2-cent bags in an open-air market in Senegal. Seeking more, he blended his passion for cooking with his newfound entrepreneurial skills to open his first dining establishment — two tables placed on a sidewalk near the same area where he once sold bags. Omar’s drive and ambition did not stop there. With help from a microfinance loan from Friends of Senegal, he opened a five-seat restaurant, this time with tables inside! Since then, Omar’s income has experienced a 53% increase. With a recently granted second loan, Omar was able to open a second restaurant, hire an assistant chef, and buy a plot of land to begin raising chickens for his culinary endeavors. As Omar’s success grows, he will further generate economic growth and opportunity for his community by hiring others and investing in his business. 

Arame Thiam

volunteer in senegalFor over 22 years, Arame Thiam sold household textiles from the same table placed at the same corner. Every year, she worked hard to provide for her children and ill husband but experienced meager returns. With an interest-free microfinance loan from Friends of Senegal, Arame upgraded her table to a kiosk and expanded her inventory. As she faced flooding in her home, her husband’s condition worsening, and an illness of her own, Arame persevered. Arame recently received a second loan and is well on the way to fulfilling her dream: having her own boutique store on a busy street of Saint Louis! 

Aliou Ba

volunteer senegalAs a big man with a quick smile and warm disposition, Aliou Ba had one thing in mind — using his passion for motorcycles and skills as a mechanic to make a living and provide a necessary commodity to others. With a $280 microfinance loan from Friends of Senegal, Aliou is well on his way to opening his business, where he hopes to sell new and used motorcycles and employ other members of his family and community.

At Friends of Senegal, we only act as a vehicle for the success of these stories. The driving force behind it all is the passion of the Senegalese people. Their will to strive towards a better, more sustainable future for themselves, their families, and their communities is what secures their achievements. 

As a volunteer with Friends of Senegal, you will be an inextricable part of this process. By using your skills and knowledge, you can help influence more stories like these.  

As a volunteer, you will be involved in every step of our microfinance program, including:

  • Interviewing potential borrowers
  • Teaching business skills
  • Field meetings with borrowers
  • Collecting loan repayments in the field
  • Hosting program graduation ceremonies 
  • Distributing loans
  • And lots more

While Friends of Senegal focuses on microfinance, our NGO partner, Maison de la Gare (MDG), an organization fully vetted by Global Giving,who receives funding from individuals and organizations, such as the United Nations, the European Union, and others, offers many kinds of volunteer work that you may also want to experience. When you apply for a volunteer position with Friends of Senegal, you will be put in touch with a professional at MDG to establish your complete stay and work in Senegal, including your transportation, logging, schedule, and payments. 

For further information, please refer to http://www.mdgsl.com/engvolontariat.html or use the volunteer application at the bottom of this article to contact us regarding your needs.

As a FOS/MDG volunteer, you will be given an orientation to all of the work opportunities offered, such as Health Care, Agriculture, Poultry farming, teaching English or French, Sports, doing Night patrols looking for children who have run away from abusive situations, offering them safety and temporary lodging, and more. In other words, you may choose the area of work that suits you best, whether it be working exclusively in microfinance or dividing your time between microfinance and other MDG programs. 

You will have the opportunity to live with a host family, which we encourage for those wanting to fully experience Senegal culture and life, or stay in an auberge as you spend your time immersing yourself in the colors and wonders of Senegal and helping others. You may also stay in one of the excellent tourist hotels, which range in cost and degree of comfort. 

To be considered for the microfinance program, you must be 18 years of age, have some experience or education in the business or finance industry, and speak an intermediate level of French. If you feel that your case is exceptional in some manner, feel free to discuss it with us. A minimum volunteer period in our program is two weeks, and a maximum of six months. 

Interested in becoming a volunteer or making a donation? Click here to learn how you can help. 

A Little More About Our Senegalese Partner, Maison de la Gare 

Maison de la Gare is a fully vetted and registered NGO, managed and operated by Senegalese community members, that was originally created to aid and care for young street children in Senegal, commonly referred to as talibés. 

At an early age, parents of talibés entrust their young children to “marabout” teachers to learn in Quranic schools called Daaras. These families are often poor and believe this option may be the best chance for their children to receive an education and learn from the Quran.

Unfortunately, many of these children are often found begging on the streets. Excluded from government school programs and oftentimes facing abuse, neglect, and trafficking, these children are left alone to bring up themselves with little support or education.

For almost 20 years, Maison de la Gare has provided emotional support, education, health and hygiene services, and more in an effort to integrate vulnerable Senegalese youth into society. Along with providing vital care, this organization strives to help talibés attain the skills they need for success and self-sufficiency. 

Every volunteer program at MDG is designed to reflect cultural and ethical standards and practices. Specialized volunteers can register to participate in programs involving:

  • Healthcare and hygiene: Working as a volunteer in this area requires experience, dynamism, and sensitivity. You will be expected to be in continuous contact with talibé children both in the MDG center and in the Daaras, where the children often live. Responsibilities may include identifying and treating wounds and other health problems, seeking appropriate medical support when possible and appropriate and teaching basic personal hygiene, all with the objective of helping the children to learn and sustain a reasonable condition of health.
  • Arts and music: Visual arts and music are invaluable vehicles for communication and self-expression. For the talibé children, these activities can directly influence their growth and psychological development. Volunteers who wish to participate in this program must be passionate about working with children and have previous knowledge of child development issues. They should also have a solid basis in teaching art and/or music.
  • Education: The education talibés experience in Daaras is limited to Quranic studies, meaning they miss out on a lot of education needed to be able to read, write, and speak in French. Some of the children come from distant regions and countries, disbarring them from speaking other local languages like Wolof. At MDG, talibé students are introduced to the elements of Senegalese primary education: French, mathematics, civic instruction, and recitation/singing. As a volunteer, you will work under the supervision of a local teacher to encourage the scholastic development of the children as they develop their passion and “savoir-faire” to creative and original teaching.
  • Sports: MDG’s sports program provides the talibés with a healthy outlet for physical activity and a rare opportunity to play and enjoy themselves as children.  Volunteers working in this program will be responsible for organizing soccer and wrestling matches while coaching children and stirring excitement for these activities. Participating volunteers should have previous experience in working with children in sports and be in good physical condition. 
  • And, of course, microfinance. 

Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, with some exceptions, and possess some experience with the program of their choice (sports, teaching English, etc). Some level of French knowledge is recommended but not required, except for microfinance, which requires at least an intermediate level of French skills. Translation services are limited, but available when necessary. 

Option #2: Aider Sans Frontières

Aider Sans Frontiers (ASF) is another NGO based in Saint-Louis, Senegal. They are primarily focused on providing medical care, food, and education to talibés. ASF offers volunteers the opportunity to work on six projects that provide support to children, including:

  • Care & education 
  • Microfinance 
  • Renovation & construction 
  • Environment & ecology
  • Language courses (French & Wolof); and 
  • Teaching

Option #3: Tostan

Tostan partners with six African countries, including Senegal, to implement a Community Empowerment Program. This program strives to support communities in their efforts to develop and achieve their vision for the future through education and training in project management and social mobilization. Using a human rights-based approach, specialized volunteers work with communities to facilitate a holistic curriculum that covers:

  • Women’s empowerment and gender equality
  • Health knowledge and practices 
  • Teaching literacy and numeracy
  • Good governance
  • Changing harmful practices like female genital cutting and child marriage; and
  • Economic empowerment

Option #4: Friends of Gueoul

Friends of Gueoul is an NGO committed to providing education opportunities to young girls in Gueoul, Senegal. By providing annual scholarships, supplemental education, e-learning, and ESL training, this non-profit helps female students achieve economic and life success. While the best way to help Friends of Gueoul is by donating, they also rely on qualified volunteers to make up their ESL training program. 

Option #5: Crossroads International

Crossroads International has worked with thousands of women and girls to correct unequal access to resources and economic opportunities, diminish gender-based violence, and increase participation in political and public life. Every year, they engage with hundreds of volunteers as they apply their expertise and invest in local partners in Senegal who are best suited to address their community needs. Interested parties can volunteer in Canada or overseas through a placement with the Québec Sans Frontières program. 

Option #6: Development in Gardening (DIG)

Development in Gardening (DIG) aims to improve the nutrition and support the agricultural livelihoods of citizens in Ziguinchor, Senegal. By teaching and empowering vulnerable communities to plant regenerative gardens, DIG’s mission helps cultivate the health, wealth, and sense of belonging for all participating. From elderly households to young single mothers, volunteers with DIG work to help people thrive past their nutritional and economic thresholds.

Option #7: United Nations Volunteers

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) is a UN organization that mobilizes skilled experts and professionals into volunteer positions in over 150 countries. Volunteers working with the UNV in Senegal are often involved in various projects that promote peace and access to healthcare, education, social and economic empowerment, and more. 

Option #8: Students Travel and Exposure Solidarity Africa (STAESA)

Students Travel and Exposure Solidarity Africa (STAESA) connects students with various local NGO-facilitated programs in Senegal. STAESA strives to strengthen Senegal through job creation and economic empowerment. Programs feature projects ranging from construction and food distribution to child care and ESL teaching. 

Option #9: CorpsAfrica

CorpsAfrica is a Senegal-based NGO that serves in communities based on select criteria. The organization follows a rigorous screening process where volunteers attend a one-month intensive training program before moving to their sites where they live with host families and participate in day-to-day activities while slowly becoming trusted members of their communities. Volunteers lead change by actively working with members of the local community to mobilize the community and tackle complex issues regarding:

  • Education
  • Health
  • Small business development 
  • Urban planning and infrastructure
  • Agriculture
  • Environment concerns
  • And more

Option #10: Peace Corps

Known worldwide for its volunteer work, the Peace Corps offers various volunteer opportunities across Africa, including in Senegal. As a volunteer in Senegal through the Peace Corps, you can choose to work with local leaders on projects involving agriculture, community economic development, and the environment and health sectors.  

Option #11: Da’African Village

Established in 2024, Da’African Village is a collaborative venture network specializing in cultural exchange and volunteer opportunities. Volunteers working with Da’African Village often work in daycare centers, classrooms, and medical facilities based on their qualifications. Candidates who have special certifications and teaching are especially valuable for this organization. 

Option #12: Adventure Volunteer

Adventure Volunteer is a non-profit organization based in Spain. They specialize in providing opportunities to vulnerable communities worldwide. While collaborating with local leaders, volunteers through this agency support Senegalese communities through various projects focusing on teaching, medical, and social orphanage care. Adventure Volunteer also provides specialized assistance for children with disabilities. 

Option #13: Cooperating Volunteers

Cooperating Volunteers is a non-profit organization that specializes in organizing and connecting volunteers to opportunities in Senegal. Their primary mission is to share the spirit of cooperation between communities and volunteers to uphold a prospering Senegal. Cooperating Volunteers are involved with three projects, which include their child care, teaching, and medical programs. 

Ndaraw, the manager of the FOS microfinance program in Senegal, leading a discussion of young loan applicants regarding the creation of a profit and loss projection pro forma for their business. Although young men are shown here, both men and women participate in the microfinance training programs and receive loans. 

Not All Volunteer Work in Senegal Is Created Equal

Not all organizations and volunteer opportunities in Senegal are legitimate. As an ethical volunteer, it’s essential to know what to look for and what to look out for. 

Green Flags

When searching for volunteer opportunities in Senegal, you’ll want to look for organizations that have the best interests of you and the Senegalese people in mind. Look for positive signs an organization is indeed who they claim to be, such as:

  • The organization provides ample information about the project and is more than happy to answer questions. 
  • They offer language learning and enrichment opportunities in French. 
  • Their programs are led by local efforts and community leaders in conjunction with organization members. 
  • They have specific roles for volunteers to fulfill with clear, outlined duties. 
  • Housing accommodations are well-facilitated, and volunteers know where they are staying before they fly out. 
  • The organization has plenty of references from current partners and past volunteers.

Additional questions you can ask yourself to deem whether volunteer opportunities are ethical include:

  • Is the program’s approach community-centered?
  • Is there a focus on sustainability and long-term growth?
  • Does the program have a consistent presence in partner communities?
  • Is the program environmentally responsible?
  • Is the program skill-based?
  • Does the program support cultural awareness?
  • Does the program operate with transparency?

Red Flags

Before you fly halfway around the world, the organization you’re interested in must pass a “red flag” check. This will ensure you remain safe and that your volunteer efforts are appropriate and benefit the right people. 

Look out for negative signs that an organization may be disingenuous or unethical, such as:

  • The organization promises big changes in a short amount of time: Working across cultures to generate lasting change takes time. If an organization claims your work will change the world in as little as a week or even a month, beware. 
  • They immediately offer you a volunteer position, no questions asked: For example, if an organization offers you an opportunity to work with children without any screenings or background checks, it is not putting the best interests of the children first. 
  • Meaningful stories and positive outcomes have little to no presence on its website: Showing up and interacting with locals or painting a building is easy and does not necessarily make an impact. Meaningful volunteer partnerships generate positive, community-driven outcomes that can be referenced. 
  • The organization glorifies Western volunteerism: Humility should be the foundation of every organization participating in volunteer efforts. Ethical organizations are partners with these communities, not saviors. 
  • There is zero transparency: If an organization dodges your questions concerning where the funds go or how the communities benefit from the work, look for other opportunities.
  • The organization does not have a board of directors plainly listed on its website: One-person non-profits are practically nonexistent. Credible organizations rely on a network of working individuals who partner with local community leaders. 
  • The details regarding the programs, volunteer arrangements, and organizational roles are unclear: Volunteer programs run on detailed organization. If you ask questions and potential organizations deflect them, you may be in danger of being scammed or worse. 

While we encourage you to do additional research, shown above are 13  credible volunteer opportunities in Senegal for you to review. 

Ready To Volunteer in Senegal? Friends of Senegal Would Like To Help!

We hope our article has helped you explore your choices for volunteer opportunities in Senegal. 

Friends of Senegal would like to invite you to join one of our many volunteers in our microfinance program. You can also look into other opportunities involving Mason de la Garre if your goals are outside of the area of microfinance. We offer many and varied opportunities.  

We hope that the experience of those affected by volunteering in Senegal has warmed your heart and opened you to the possibility of contributing your time and resources to help. 

If you’re interested in participating in these ventures but want more information, you can learn more about our programs or contact us with any questions. 

Volunteer Program Fees

As private, non-profit organizations independent of government and religious funding, Friends of Senegal’s and Maison de la Gare’s programs are financed and run entirely by volunteer and donor contributions.

Below are the fees for volunteering or interning with us. 

Fees for Host Family Accommodation  2 Weeks  First Month Each Additional Month Example for Three Month Stay
Euros € 690 € 940 € 580 € 2,100 €
$US $760 $1030 $630 $2,290
U.K. £  590 £ 810 £ 500 £ 1,810 £

Additional information about these fees includes:

  1. All fees include a reception at the airport, transportation Dakar-Saint Louis-Dakar, lodging near the airport if needed, accommodation with the host family, and contributing to program expenses.
  2. Host family accommodation includes three meals per day.
  3. The fee per person for the first month or less is reduced by 135 € / $150 / £115 for two volunteers who register and travel together.
  4. If alternative accommodation is desired (e.g., auberge), please request information from us.

Upon acceptance of your application, a 15% deposit is required, with the balance due one month before your arrival. Please contact us for more information or if you have any questions about our program.

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

PLEASE COMPLETE THIS FORM

Please indicate your country/nationality
Tick the box(es). Some projects can combined and some done one after the other
Indicate project 1 and 2 etc. as per your option, when that applies
*The choice of project duration is just indicative at this stage of your application
The arrival date may just be indicative