Volunteering with Refugees in Germany: This volunteer program is for undergraduate and graduate students, professionals, employees of human rights organizations, retirees, and anyone interested in volunteering with refugees in Germany. Volunteers in Germany will have the chance to stay with Arabic host families, study colloquial Arabic or German, and experience the German/Arabic culture, politics, and daily life in the city of Halle, Germany. Volunteer with Refugees in Germany is a great opportunity for those who want to work with refugees in Germany.

This program will allow you to organize and participate in activities and events for refugees in Halle, Germany. Many refugees strongly believe in the importance of education to improve their situation in Germany and better integrate themselves into German society. That is why the Excellence Center in Europe provides social, educational, and community activities for refugees in Halle. These activities are mainly for young people. As an international volunteer engaging in these activities, you will learn about the refugee situation in Germany, see their living conditions, and come to appreciate how refugees are integrating into a new society.

Volunteer with Refugees in Summer

This volunteer program is ideal for people who are seeking to engage and volunteer with refugees in Germany or Europe in the summer. The volunteer program is suitable for university students who are looking for internships to gain practical experience in Europe and Germany specifically.

Volunteering at the Excellence Center in Europe in the summer is a unique time because of the number of volunteers from different backgrounds who bond as a family and help the community. It is a rewarding experience to exchange stories and learn from those who have an interest in helping refugees develop their language skills. 

What Will I Do Exactly?

As a participant in the Volunteer with Refugees in Germany program, you will do the following:

  • Participate in organized activities for refugees, mainly for children and young people. These activities include entertainment, sports, and educational sessions. 
  • Meet refugees and learn about their situation and their living conditions.

An Excellent Opportunity for University Students

Volunteering with refugees in Germany is an excellent opportunity for university students/recent graduates who are looking to build experience in the human rights field. In this program, volunteers will work with refugees to enhance each other’s skills, create mutual understanding, engage in language exchange, and make a difference in each other’s lives.

Volunteers with Palestinian Refugees? 

Volunteering with Palestinian refugees in the West Bank is an excellent opportunity for university students/recent graduates who are looking to build experience in the human rights field. In this program, volunteers will work with Palestinian kids, women, and youths to enhance each other’s skills, foster mutual understanding, engage in language exchange, and make a difference in each other’s lives.

 Volunteers with Palestinian refugees can stay from 1-13 weeks in Hebron, West Bank, they can flexibly choose their starting and ending dates. The center hosts volunteers year-round. Here you may find the link for the volunteer programs in the West Bank with our sister organization: 

Internship and Volunteer Programs

The Excellence Center in Europe provides a variety of volunteer and internship programs to those who want to travel to Germany and immerse themselves in the culture, all while working with refugees in Halle, Germany, and migrants to make a meaningful difference.

Here, you can explore the list of our short-term volunteer and internship programs in Halle, Germany:

Teach English and Study Arabic in Germany Program Teaching English in Germany Program
Internship in Halle, Germany ProgramMedia & Journalism Volunteer Program
Volunteer to Write About GermanyVolunteer with Refugees in Germany

Time and Duration

The Excellence Center in Europe welcomes students, English native and non-native speakers, and people from all countries who are 18 to 70 years old to join any of the Center’s volunteer, internship, and Arabic programs.

The period of participation can span anywhere from 1 to 13 weeks. For volunteers, interns, and students, the Excellence Center in Europe’s program flexibility is designed to work around their schedules, with programs being available year-round (Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter) and starting and ending dates up to the participant’s choice!

Our Programs Make a Great Impact 

Our Volunteer and Internship programs in Halle, Germany are well-researched, targeted, and suitable for anyone who wants to gain insights into German and Arabic culture as well as refugees’ daily lives. We aim to make a long-term difference for our local community by exchanging ideas and “walking in each other’s shoes”.

Volunteering and interning in Halle, Germany is a unique opportunity to genuinely make an impact on your life as well as others including children, refugees, women, youth, and community members.

Reviews and Awards

The Excellence Center in Europe has been offering its services since 2018. Throughout the years, we have been developing many programs and online courses. We use the most advanced teaching methods which we develop and enhance year after year. Education is an active process that is always advancing, and you will be part of the development. 

Despite continuous program improvements for the best learning experience, our core goal remains: connecting, teaching, and developing individuals. Additionally, we aim to promote and encourage exchange in the local and international communities. 

We continue to strive towards excellence:

In 2022, we ranked as “one of the top three organizations worldwide in offering volunteer opportunities”. We also ranked as “one of the top three language schools worldwide” by Go Overseas. We also received a total of five Go Overseas Community Choice Awards. Among others, the Excellence Center in Europe earned recognition as one of the top Teach Abroad Providers for the category of “benefits”. Besides that, we were also one of the Top Internship Abroad Providers for the categories of “growth” and “support”. 

In 2021, we were one of the top three volunteer programs in the world. Go Overseas awarded us the community choice awards in the categories of “best language school”, “fun”, and “teaching”.

In 2019, we received our inaugural “Go Overseas Community Choice Awards”. This award was a recognition of the Excellence Center in Europe’s positive effect on the global travel community. You can check our ratings below.

What Type of Activities Will I be Participating in?

  • Educational activities

International volunteers will create and organize activities that are aimed at educating children, as well as adults. These activities include English language sessions that focus on conversation. During these sessions, the emphasis will not be on teaching grammar. We would like those we work with to learn by doing. For instance, through presentations, games, group work, etc.

  • Entertainment activities

The entertainment activities that you will organize and participate in may include musical activities, drawing sessions, sports activities, educational games, and making arts and crafts. Do not worry about organizing these on your own. Our local volunteers will work alongside you to arrange these activities.

Your Impact

Volunteers taking part in our short-term volunteer projects in Germany will be responsible for teaching one-to-one conversational English courses to students at the Center. On occasion, volunteers may also teach small groups of students (anywhere from 2 – 5) to help foster class unity and mutual learning. As a volunteer English teacher, you will interact with students face-to-face helping them gain crucial skills for later in life. Students’ age will range anywhere from 11 – 70 years old, as well as come from a plethora of backgrounds.

Most students will be migrants, or the children of migrants, hailing from various countries that have been subject to difficult times. The majority of the families the Excellence Center in Europe serves come from various Arab countries such as Syria, Palestine, Yemen, and Iraq, but the center is not exclusive and accepts refugees and migrants from all around the world, such as Russia and Ukraine. 

Volunteers will not only serve as teachers but also as cultural diplomats, representing their home country to the community in Halle (Saale), as well as play an important role in helping with communal activities meant to increase cross-cultural exchanges. This positive exposure between members of different cultures is how we foster deeper understanding and respect for the many different cultures all around the world.

At the Excellence Center in Europe, we take quality and equality very seriously and ensure our teachers are equipped with material from their first day in Germany. The Excellence Center in Europe is a place where refugees, migrants, locals, international travelers, volunteers, and professionals can all share a safe space to engage in learning together. While the center is small in size, it offers an opportunity to make a big difference in the lives of others!

Where Does the Program Take Place?

The Volunteer with Refugees program takes place at the Excellence Center in Europe in Halle (Saale) city. Halle is a city in the southern region of the German state of Saxony-Anhalt. Halle is an economic and educational center in eastern Germany. The University of Halle-Wittenberg is the largest in Saxony-Anhalt and one of the oldest universities in Germany.

Halle (Saale) has an elegant city center with many green areas and narrow streets to explore. The architecture has been well-preserved, making Halle a lovely place to visit in Germany. In addition, there are many beautiful places to see along the Saale River, which runs through the city.

Why Halle (Saale)?

Halle is a German city that has received a large number of refugees. This makes the city a very diverse place to visit because of how many different cultures are present within the city. Internationals also add to the diversity. The university in Halle is an educational destination that attracts many international students to Halle.

Refugees, immigrants, and foreigners all contribute to the beauty of cultures found in the city. During your time here you will be able to meet and interact with many different people from many different countries.

Are You Eligible for the Program?

Volunteer with Refugees in Germany is open to anyone between 18 – 70 years old. People from all countries and majors are welcome to join this program. There are no specific degree requirements. All that is required is a willingness to participate.

What Language is the Program Run in? 

The volunteer with refugees in Germany is geared toward English speakers. Further, when navigating through Halle, Germany, students will be required to utilize their German skills to the best of their ability, creating a fully immersive experience.

Volunteer with Refugees in Germany quick information: 

Location of Volunteer ProgramHalle, Germany
Program LanguageEnglish
  Volunteering Duration1-13 Weeks
Starting/ Ending Dates
Volunteers can freely choose their starting and ending dates. We offer volunteer programs in Palestine year-round (Summer, Winter, Autumn, and Spring)
Weekly CostsClick Here for the Prices
Homestay Host family
Shared room
Private (Additional fees apply)
Educational DegreeNot Required

Area of volunteering
Volunteer with refugees in Germany
Human rights in refugees camps
Volunteer with children
University CreditAvailable
Application DeadlineNo Deadline
Reviews and RatingsReviews On Gooverseas.com
Reviews On Goabroad.com
Participants video testimonials

Program’s Fees?

The Excellence Center in Europe charges a fee and the cost includes:

  • A tour in Halle
  • Breakfast
  • The accommodation
  • In-country and Pre-departure support
  • Arabic or German classes (3 hours a week)
  • Certificate of completion

Click Here for the Prices

What Does the Program Include?

Volunteer with Refugees in Germany includes the following:

  • Organizing weekly workshops for refugees on educational-related subjects, such as writing resumes and formal emails, teaching employment skills, and developing writing skills. 
  • Teaching conversational English to refugee children and adults at the Excellence Center in Europe.    
  • Organizing interactive activities that could include workshops in painting, writing, handicrafts, film, and photography. 
  • Organizing activities aimed at providing entertainment for refugee children.
  • Helping the Excellence Center in Europe staff with administration-related activities, such as writing articles or reports, printing materials for the students, etc.     

What are the Benefits of the Program?

  • Volunteer experience abroad. You will engage in and organize several types of educational activities for refugees that are aimed at improving English language skills.
  • Experience the hospitality of Arabs and Arabic culture by being a part of the Excellence Center in Europe’s educational, social, and community activities.  
  • The program will allow you to be in Germany, the European country that has hosted the largest number of Arab refugees in recent years. Most of these refugees have come from Syria and you will experience their culture, and listen to their stories during your time at the Excellence Center in Europe. 
  • The program provides you with a chance to visit local sites in Halle city and discover its rich history. 
  • On completion of the program, you will receive a participation certificate and recommendation letter.
  • Accommodation will involve either staying with a local host family or in a dorm.  
  • Receive 3 hours of Palestinian-spoken Arabic lessons per week.
  • Have the chance to attend cultural evenings and entertainment activities organized by the Center.

What Does the Application Process Look Like?

  1. The participant emails the Excellence Center in Europe to receive an application.
  2. The participant fills out the application and sends it back to us.
  3. We review the application with our team.
  4. You may be invited to interview on a Skype call.
  5. If selected for the program, we will send you an acceptance letter and a contract.
  6. You sign the contract and send it back to us.
  7. You pay the fees.
  8. You are ready to come to Germany and join the program. Welcome! 

Flexible Booking

At the Excellence Center in Europe, we understand that things change. As such, our programs are incredibly flexible in case you need to alter travel plans or just simply have a change of heart.

As programs begin at the center year-round (with flexible start and end dates), you decide your arrival. Furthermore, you’re able to change your start date entirely free of charge if requested at least two weeks beforehand.

Do I Need a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certificate?

No, having the TEFL certificate is not a requirement. You will be provided with a teaching manual and materials. This program is designed so that you gain experience in teaching English as a Foreign Language.

When Can I Apply And For How Long Can I Volunteer?

This program is open all year round. You can apply at any time. YOU choose your start and end dates, with a minimum period of one week’s participation and a maximum of three months. There is no deadline before which to apply. 

Summer Internships – Volunteer Abroad

While the volunteer program in Germany is available all year, the Summer is the most advantageous and exciting time to apply. With a team from all around the world, the Excellence Center in Europe is rife with students throughout May, June, July, and August, making it the perfect time to Intern after graduation.

The program includes a language course (3 hours of German per week), responsibilities as an English Teacher, housing, logistic help, breakfast 4 days a week, and an immersive experience in our community in Halle. The program can last between 1-13 weeks- as you decide for yourself. If you are looking for a Summer internship volunteering with refugees, teaching English, and learning German in Europe or Germany, this program is for you.

Winter Volunteer Programs

The Excellence Center in Europe offers winter volunteer and internship programs which start from October to late March for the people who would like to come to Europe to volunteer, study a new language, and meet new cultures and people. Volunteers and interns can stay from 1-13 weeks.

Getting to the Excellence Center in Europe

The easiest way to get to the Excellence Center in Europe is to fly to Leipzig/Halle Airport. It takes about 25 minutes to get from the airport to the Excellence Center in Europe via train.

If you are coming from one of the airports in Berlin, then you have two ways to get to the Excellence Center in Europe. The first is to come by bus. You can take a bus operated by companies such as FlixBus or Eurolines. The bus ride takes about two hours. The second choice is to come by train from the Berlin-Central Station. The train ride takes around an hour and a half.

Visa to Germany

If you are coming from a European country that has signed the Schengen agreement, then you do not need a visa to enter Germany. For those who come from countries that are a part of this program, you are permitted to stay in Germany for up to three months.

All other travelers will need to apply for a Schengen visa to enter Germany. This visa will allow you to enter and stay in Germany for a maximum period of 3 months (90 days). Please note that this visa prohibits visa-holders from getting a job (even as a freelance) during their stay/

How to Apply for the Program?

If you want to join this program, please send an email to: info@eceurope.org  Volunteer with the Refugees in Germany as the subject line. We will then send you the application form.

Conclusion

The Excellence Center in Europe serves as a vital crossroads, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and fostering cultural competency among community members and volunteers alike. This unique volunteering experience with refugees in Germany is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, offering profound insights into the lives of refugees and the complexities of our interconnected world. Engaging in this program will not only broaden your understanding of refugee issues but also deepen your appreciation for the resilience and strength of those who have been displaced. The experience aims to challenge your preconceptions and provide a more nuanced perspective on global migration and cultural diversity. 

By the end of your volunteer journey, you will have gained a comprehensive education about the daily realities and challenges faced by refugees in Germany. This immersive experience will allow you to witness firsthand the difficulties and setbacks that refugees often encounter. Moreover, the relationships you build with your students will leave a lasting impact, as you learn from their personal stories and their native languages. The mutual exchange of knowledge and experiences will enrich your life, fostering a sense of empathy and global awareness. Ultimately, volunteering with refugees in Germany is not just about making a difference in the lives of others; it is also about transforming your worldview and contributing to a more inclusive and understanding global community.

Find Us Online

Do you want to contact the Excellence Center in Europe? Please email us at info@eceurope.org or write to us at WhatsApp: +49 1763 935 3950

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