Volunteer Opportunities in Gran Canaria
If you are looking for a way to make a positive difference in Gran Canaria, you might be interested in volunteering for one of the many local organizations that work to improve the lives of people and animals on the island. Volunteering is not only a rewarding experience, but also a great opportunity to learn more about the culture, language and challenges of this diverse and beautiful place. In this article, we will introduce you to some of the volunteer opportunities that are available in Gran Canaria, and share some tips on how to get involved.
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ICHH Instituto Canario de Hemodonacion y Hemoterapia
I’m a blood donor here in Las Palmas de GC and if you can donate your blood, this is something useful and easy to do.
One of the most important and universal ways to help others is by donating blood. Blood is a vital resource that can save lives in emergencies, surgeries and treatments. However, there is always a need for more donors, especially those with rare blood types. If you are eligible to donate blood, you can visit the ICHH Instituto Canario de Hemodonacion y Hemoterapia, which is the organization responsible for collecting and distributing blood in the Canary Islands. They have a mobile unit that travels around Gran Canaria, as well as a permanent center in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
More info: @ichhcanarias (Instagram)
Perros Sin Fronteras Gran Canaria
Another way to volunteer in Gran Canaria is by helping animals in need. There are many stray dogs and cats on the island, as well as other animals that have been abandoned or abused. Fortunately, there are also several associations that rescue, rehabilitate and rehome these animals, and they are always looking for volunteers to assist them. One of them is Perros Sin Fronteras GC, which is a non-profit organization that works to protect and promote the welfare of dogs in Gran Canaria. They have a shelter where they care for about 200 dogs, and they also organize adoption events, sterilization campaigns and educational activities. You can volunteer by walking, feeding or playing with the dogs, or by helping with administrative tasks or fundraising.
More info: https://perrossinfronteras.org/
Pequeño Valiente
If you want to volunteer with children, you can consider joining Pequeño Valiente, which is an association that supports children with cancer and their families in the Canary Islands. They offer psychological, social and economic assistance to the families, as well as recreational activities for the children. They also collaborate with hospitals and research centers to improve the quality of care and treatment for pediatric cancer patients. You can volunteer by visiting the children in the hospital or at their homes, by organizing or participating in events or workshops, or by donating money or goods.
More info: www.pequevaliente.com
Asociación Atlas
If you are interested in cultural diversity and human rights, Asociación Atlas is a place where you can get involved. Asociación Atlas is an organization that works with African people who come to Gran Canaria in small boats, fleeing from war, violence, or persecution in their countries of origin. They offer them legal advice, psychological support, social integration programs, language courses, and cultural activities. They also advocate for their rights and dignity as human beings. As a volunteer, you can help them with these services and activities, as well as learn more about their culture and background.
More info: @atlas_gc (Instagram)
Asociación HESTIA
Another option for volunteering with people is Asociación HESTIA, which is a non-governmental organization that works to improve the living conditions of vulnerable groups in Gran Canaria, such as immigrants, refugees, homeless people, women and children. They offer various services and programs, such as legal advice, social integration, education, health care and emergency aid. You can volunteer by providing your professional skills or knowledge, by teaching languages or other subjects, by accompanying or mentoring the beneficiaries, or by supporting the staff or the projects.
More info: www.asociacionhestia.es
Parroquia de San Pedro
If you are compassionate and want to help people in need, Parroquia De San Pedro is a place where you can make a difference. Iglesia De San Pedro is a church in La Isleta that offers food and hot soup to more than 50 people every day, mostly done by volunteers from Caritas. Caritas is a Catholic charity that works to fight poverty and social injustice in Gran Canaria and around the world. They provide assistance to people who are homeless, unemployed, migrants, refugees, or facing other difficulties. As a volunteer, you can help them with preparing and serving the food, cleaning the kitchen and dining area, and talking to the people who come for a meal. You can also learn more about their situation and their stories.
More info: www.facebook.com/ParroquiaSanPedroLaIsleta/
Oceans4lifeGC
If you are passionate about marine conservation and want to protect the oceans and the wildlife that lives in them, Oceans4lifegc is a great option for you. Oceans4lifegc is a non-profit organization that works to raise awareness, educate, and take action for the preservation of the marine environment in Gran Canaria. They organize beach cleanups, snorkeling tours, educational workshops, and campaigns to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable tourism. As a volunteer, you can help them with these activities and learn more about the marine ecosystem and the threats it faces. You can also enjoy the beauty of the ocean and meet other like-minded people who share your passion.
More info: www.facebook.com/Oceans4Life.GranCanaria/
Pet Pals GC – Animal Charity Shop Tienda Segundamano
If you are an animal lover and want to support a good cause, Pet Pals GC – Animal Charity Shop Tienda Segundamano is a wonderful place to volunteer. Pet Pals GC is a charity that helps stray and abandoned animals in Gran Canaria by providing them with food, shelter, veterinary care, and adoption services. They also run an animal charity shop in San Fernando, where they sell second-hand items such as clothes, books, toys, and household goods. All the profits from the shop go to fund their animal rescue work. As a volunteer, you can help them with sorting, pricing, and selling the items in the shop, as well as interacting with customers and raising awareness about their mission.
More info: www.facebook.com/PetPalsGCShop/
Conclusion
These are just some examples of the many volunteer opportunities that exist in Gran Canaria. There are many more organizations and causes that you can explore and support according to your interests and abilities. Volunteering can be a rewarding and enriching experience for both you and the people or animals you help. It can also help you develop new skills, make new friends and discover new aspects of Gran Canaria. If you are interested in volunteering, we recommend that you contact the organization directly and ask about their needs and expectations. You should also be respectful of their rules and regulations, and be committed and responsible with your tasks. Volunteering is not only a way to give back to the community, but also a way to grow as a person.
