I went into this volunteer trip expecting the volunteer part to consume most of my days and to be my complete focus. Instead, I had a great time helping cats at a shelter while ALSO meeting the best people and making friends I'm sure are for life. The experience of doing volunteering has the bonus of you being surrounded by people with the same emphatic mentality as you, and that was such a transformative experience for me. I was all the way across the world, but there was never a moment where I felt lonely or stranded away from home.
Animal Care Volunteer Project in Italy - Rome
Purpose
Care for & re-home abandoned animals
Start dates
Programs start every second and fourth Monday of the month
Duration
Choose from 2-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 18+
Accommodation
Dormitory style camping lodge
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Animal loving volunteers that want to make a difference to the lives of the animals homed in the shelter.
Project details
Want to volunteer in animal shelters in Italy? International Volunteer HQ’s Animal Care project offers the opportunity for volunteers to support the welfare and protection of a variety of animals, including cats, dogs, horses, donkeys and pigs, to name only a few, in local farms and shelters in Rome. Volunteers gain experience caring for the health and wellbeing of the animals while giving them time, love, and the best chance of being adopted.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
The Animal Care project in Rome offers volunteers the opportunity to support the welfare and protection of animals at both local farms and cat shelters. These places play an important role in managing endangered animals, treating and protecting them, raising awareness of animal abandonment and promoting adoption, when applicable.
As an Animal Care volunteer you’ll help local staff with routine daily tasks. There may be an opportunity to supplement your time by improving the shelter itself, raising community awareness about animal abandonment through campaigns, assisting with minor medical treatment, and supporting the shelter’s social media accounts to help better promote the shelter.
The Animal Care program in Rome has several objectives, all of which are equally important. Day-to-day duties for volunteers help work towards these goals, including:
- Taking care of our four-legged friends by feeding, cleaning and grooming them
- Providing companionship by playing with the animals
- Supporting local staff of non-profit associations in the maintenance and cleaning of shelters
- Contributing to communication campaigns in support of the shelters themselves
- Raising awareness around topics such as adoptions of animals
When joining the project in winter, volunteers should be prepared for lower temperatures of between 40-60°F (5-15°C), and come equipped with warm clothing. Clothing that can be soiled and get dirty is also recommended as you will be working closely with lots of animals.
Why do Animal Care volunteering in Rome with IVHQ?
While volunteering on the Animal Care project in Italy you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Improving the health and wellbeing of animals
- Developing your communication skills
- Gaining experience in an animal shelter
- Learning Italian and immersing yourself in the culture
- Acquiring a cross-cultural understanding of animal care
- Exploring the beauty of Italy’s charming capital city
Volunteer requirements
- Volunteers need to be 18 years or over to participate in this program. If you are under the age of 18, IVHQ offers alternative volunteer opportunities for teens. Visit our High School Volunteer Abroad page to learn more
- All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance
- All volunteers must speak fluent English.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
Italy photo gallery
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Youth Support project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Climate Action project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
IVHQ Creative Technologies project
IVHQ Sustainable Farming project
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
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Camila Tavares
10 Oct 2024
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MF
Maddy Fletcher
21 Aug 2024
I definitely gained more confidence when it comes to getting out of my comfort zone. I got to travel to some cool places and learned how to get around in a new country!
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MM
Melissa Muentes
16 Aug 2024
The local team were very awesome and helpful as soon I landed! The animal shelter was so nice and the people working there were so helpful, we made some great connections. The accommodations were good, comfortable and the food was authentic and fresh.
...
MB
Marjorie Brooks
15 Jul 2024
Stepping out of my comfort zone and navigating international travel solo, I was reminded to be humble in another country. My advice to anyone hesitant about joining this program is to go for it...it's so rewarding in many ways, and you only live once.
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AG
Abby Green
24 Jun 2024
I feel I definitely was able to grow as a person and was pushed out of my comfort zone and I now want to help others even more! If someone was hesitant to do a volunteer abroad program I would say to honestly just do it. It’s so rewarding for both yourself and the community that you’re helping and it’s a great way to enjoy different cultures and meet so many unique people from around the world.
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AR
Aurora Robinson
29 Jan 2024
I had many questions before my trip that were answered effectively and quickly by the IVHQ team. I had a wonderful time at the shelter caring for and maintaining the living space of rescued and injured roman cats, along with gaining experience working in that kind of environment. I am so excited to learn more about my furry friends at uni next year as I embark in this field of study.
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To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
Rome is and has been many things - the capital of Italy, the Eternal City and the center of the ancient Roman empire. It is both brimming with reminders of bygone eras and teeming with dynamic, modern industry and entertainment. It’s also the setting of IVHQ’s Italy - Rome program, and volunteer placements are located throughout the wider city area.
Like any major city, there is a socio-economic divide in Rome and the people who fall on the disadvantaged side of this face a host of challenges. Volunteers can help make a difference to their lives by providing essential support to local initiatives designed to address these issues and others that affect the community.
Volunteers on this project should expect commutes of up to two hours one way from the accommodation to their placement, via public transportation. These long commute times are a result of Rome’s transportation system that almost always have long delays, ongoing repairs, and unpredictable schedules. Those who wish to join the Sustainable Farming project will usually have a longer commute than those on projects such as Youth Support and Teaching English, as this project is in the countryside on the outskirts of the city.
Arrival and orientation
The program orientation in Rome begins on the second and fourth Monday of each month and lasts for a full day. Volunteers need to arrive in Rome on the Sunday before orientation.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO). You can also arrive into Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport (CIA) but should expect you may need to wait to be picked up. Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and taken to the volunteer accommodation in Rome. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night before your program orientation.
If you are traveling in Italy prior to your volunteer program and arriving overland, we can arrange for you to be picked up from a central meeting point in Rome on the Sunday before orientation.
Orientation is hosted by our Italy team in Rome. It begins the morning of your chosen start date and lasts for a full day. The orientation covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Rome – an introduction to Italy, culture and customs, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities, and a tour of the local area. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers with whom you can swap contact details for weekend travel and socializing.
Your specific placement orientation will be held the following day and you will be shown how to travel to and from your placement, receive an introduction to your placement, and then complete a few hours of volunteering.
Volunteer schedule example
Weekdays
After your program orientation, you will have a morning or afternoon volunteer shift at your placement and will work for approximately 3 to 5 hours per day. Your schedule will vary depending on the needs of your particular project. A typical schedule is as follows:
| 7.30 AM | Breakfast begins at the volunteer accommodation and is available until 10.30 AM. |
| 8.00 AM | Travel to your volunteer placement to join local placement staff and begin work on your project. Please note that some placements run in the afternoon and volunteers on these placements will have the morning free to use as they wish. |
| 12.00 - 1:00 PM | Lunch break. Buy your own lunch from Rome’s many excellent cafes and eateries. After lunch, volunteers will continue volunteer work (where applicable). |
| 1.00 PM | Volunteers with afternoon or evening shifts travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on their project. |
| 6.30 - 10:30 PM | Dinner at the volunteer accommodation. After dinner, you will have the remainder of the evening free to relax and use as you wish. |
Weekends
On weekends, you can spend your free time discovering why Rome is one of the most popular and revered tourist destinations in the world. For a start, you can visit monuments to ancient history like the Colosseum, check out Vatican City, see Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, explore the Pantheon and throw coins into the Trevi Fountain.
Once you’ve ticked off those iconic experiences you can relax and find out which of the rest of Rome’s numerous attractions you’ll see next. It might be any one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, the perfect authentic carbonara or a steaming cup of espresso, touring ancient churches, checking out the nightlife of buzzy Trastevere or stumbling upon the latest in fashion on one of Rome’s best shopping streets, Via del Corso.
If you’re ready for a change of scene, you can take a quick weekend train trip to see the ancient ruins of Pompeii, or Naples - the home of pizza. Nature lovers should also factor in a visit to the beautiful Amalfi Coast to complete the precipitous and spectacular Walk of the Gods. Volunteers staying for longer durations, or who wish to travel before or after their program, can visit areas further afield in Italy, including Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence, Milan, Pisa and much more. You can make travel arrangements once you arrive in Rome with the advice and guidance of our expert local team.
Accommodation and WiFi
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Rome while staying in a freshly renovated, modern hostel right in the city circle. The dormitory-style accommodations offer a welcoming and social atmosphere, where you’ll share a room with up to three individuals of the same gender.
You’ll enjoy all the comforts of home, including WiFi, air conditioning, bedding, towels, and a private western-style bathroom for each bedroom. The accommodation is cleaned throughout the week, we encourage volunteers to keep their rooms tidy.
The hostel features three outdoor terrace areas, a vibrant communal lounge, and a fully equipped common kitchen.
Private room upgrades in various arrangements are available for an additional cost, subject to availability.
Meals
As a volunteer in Rome, you’ll receive three meals a day, so you can focus on making a difference while experiencing authentic Italian cuisine.
Breakfast at a charming local café, a baked cornetto (Italian croissant) and a classic cappuccino.
Lunch and dinner are both served at a nearby authentic Italian restaurant, featuring traditional dishes such as pasta, seasonal vegetables, and fresh salads.
Rome’s tap water is safe to drink, and the accommodation has a common kitchen where you can refill your reusable bottle. If you prefer bottled water, it’s widely available, and you can budget around $10 (approximately $10) per week for this.
Accommodation outdoor social area
Typical volunteer dining area
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Volunteer accommodation
Volunteer accommodation
Volunteer accommodation
Volunteer outdoor swimming pool
Volunteer dining room
Volunteer dining room
Volunteer dining room
Volunteer dining room
Accommodation outdoor social area
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately $299), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately $299) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | $1,645 Equivalent to $118/day |
| 3 weeks | $2,315 Equivalent to $110/day |
| 4 weeks | $2,985 Equivalent to $107/day |
| 5 weeks | $3,655 Equivalent to $104/day |
| 6 weeks | $4,325 Equivalent to $103/day |
| 8 weeks | $5,665 Equivalent to $101/day |
| 10 weeks | $7,005 Equivalent to $100/day |
| 12 weeks | $8,345 Equivalent to $99/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately $299) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Rome generally find US$150 to be sufficient for weekly expenses, transport and miscellaneous spending.
- Any changes or cancellations within 14 days of your start date are subject to a US$200 late change/cancellation fee.
- Breakfast and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country emergency support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Comprehensive in-country day to day support and guidance
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Rome
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Rome program.
Italian Flavors Unplugged - Peak
Experience the heart of Roman cuisine with our hands-on cooking class. Craft authentic pasta and sauces, then savor your creations for an unforgettable taste of Italy!
$107
Airport Drop-off (06:00 - 22:00)
Relax and enjoy a hassle-free transfer from your accommodation to the airport, expertly arranged by our local team.
$87
Airport Pick-up (06:00 - 22:00)
Arriving outside our scheduled airport pick-up times? Reserve this add-on today!
$87
Check what's required to visit Italy
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Rome |
| Population | 61.7 Million |
| Languages | Italian |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00 |
Weather and climate
Italy’s climate is quite diverse due to its long peninsula and mountainous terrain. The coastal areas of Liguria, Tuscany and most of the South are predominantly Mediterranean with dry summers and moderately wet winters. In the northern parts of Italy and areas of higher altitudes, the climate is cooler and the winter months can be cold, wet, and often snowy. Weather in Rome, where the IVHQ volunteer program is based, is pleasant throughout the year. Winter temperatures in Rome (December to February) vary from 4°C/39°F to 14°C/57°F while spring (March to May) is slightly warmer at around 15°C/59°F. Summer (June to September) in Rome can become very hot and humid with average temperatures ranging between 18°C/64°F and 31°C/89°F. Rainfall is heaviest in November and driest in July.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
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