For a long time, my social life in Amsterdam was centered around work. While I had a few friendly colleagues, our interactions were mostly limited to brief conversations during project deadlines and coffee breaks. Working in a project-based role meant my team changed frequently, and during one particularly isolating project, I found myself the only person in the Netherlands, with the rest of the team scattered around the globe. It became clear that to build deeper, lasting connections, I needed to look beyond work.
The Volunteer Market
That’s when I stumbled upon a volunteer fair organized by IN Amsterdam. Picture a bustling market, but instead of produce and trinkets, it was filled with nonprofit organizations showcasing opportunities to give back. It was refreshing to see so many expats in the same boat as me—searching for a sense of belonging and a way to contribute to the local community.
I wandered from booth to booth, chatting with representatives from various organizations. There was everything from environmental groups to local theaters and community centers. For the first time in a long while, I felt hopeful. Volunteering seemed like the perfect solution: a way to meet people, practice Dutch, and feel like part of something bigger.
The Almost-Volunteering Experience
I’d set my sights on volunteering at a local cinema. It sounded ideal—helping out at a cozy theater, surrounded by film lovers, and maybe catching a few screenings myself. There was just one problem: the location. The cinema was in Amsterdam West, and I lived on the opposite side of the city. The thought of biking that far in the rain after work was enough to dampen my enthusiasm. Sadly, I didn’t follow through.
While I didn’t end up volunteering at the fair, I’ve since found other ways to give back. For the past few years, I’ve been volunteering yearly at Amsterdam’s Museum Night and IDFA (International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam). As a movie and documentary enthusiast, being part of these events has been incredibly rewarding. Additionally, I’ve participated in volunteering initiatives through my employer, who offers multiple programs for employees to contribute to the community.
Why Volunteering Works
If you’re an expat struggling to find your place, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring volunteer work. Start local—look for opportunities close to where you live to make it easier to commit. Consider what you’re passionate about, whether it’s the arts, the environment, or helping people in need. And don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t pan out. The search itself can be rewarding.
To help you get started, here are some trustworthy organizations and platforms where you can find volunteer opportunities in Amsterdam:
- Vrijwilligers Centrale Amsterdam : A volunteer center that connects individuals with organizations in need of support throughout Amsterdam. They serve as a bridge, helping people find roles that match their interests, skills, and availability. VCA caters to a broad audience, including Dutch speakers and internationals, making it accessible to everyone. VCA offers a wide variety of volunteering roles in areas such as social work, arts and culture, environmental projects, sports, and more. you can take a short quiz on their website to discover which volunteer work suits you best. Alternatively, you can book an appointment with their team to receive personalized advice and guidance on getting started.
- ACCESS : A non-profit organization that helps internationals in the Netherlands adapt to local life. They offer English-speaking services and operate helpdesks in cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague. Volunteers from over 40 nationalities assist newcomers with information and guidance to ease their transition. With a strong team of 140 volunteers, ACCESS provides a welcoming environment for those looking to feel at home in the Netherlands.
- Nlcares : A Dutch non-governmental organization that connects individuals with flexible volunteer opportunities across the Netherlands. They offer a variety of activities, including assisting children and youth in disadvantaged situations, supporting the elderly, helping migrants, and aiding people with disabilities. Volunteers can choose activities that fit their schedules and interests, making it accessible and inspiring
- Voedselbank : A non-profit organization in the Netherlands focused on helping people who are struggling financially by providing them with food supplies. Volunteers at Voedselbank collect, sort, and distribute food to families in need. The organization relies on donations from supermarkets, producers, and individuals, as well as volunteer efforts, to provide essential food packages. Volunteers can get involved in various roles, from logistics and distribution to administrative support.
- Dierenopvang Amsterdam : Dierenopvang Amsterdam is the largest animal shelter in the Netherlands, located in Amsterdam. They care for cats, dogs, rabbits, and other animals, offering adoption, fostering, and rehabilitation services. volunteers can assist in various roles, including animal care, helping with animal adoption processes, supporting in the shelter, and helping with events. Volunteers may also assist in training and rehabilitating animals, along with administrative support.
In addition to the ongoing volunteer opportunities, there are several seasonal or event-based volunteering activities in Amsterdam that offer unique ways to get involved. Here are some examples:
- IDFA (International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam) : One of the world’s most prominent documentary film festivals, held annually in Amsterdam. It features a wide variety of documentaries, including screenings, panel discussions, and workshops. Volunteers at IDFA can assist with various tasks, including welcoming guests, guiding visitors, helping at screenings, and supporting behind-the-scenes operations. This is a great opportunity for film lovers to engage in a major cultural event and meet like-minded individuals.
- Museum Night (Museumnacht) : Museum Night is an annual event where Amsterdam’s museums stay open late for a unique evening of art, performances, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore exhibitions, attend special events, and enjoy live entertainment. Volunteers for Museum Night help with event logistics, guiding visitors, managing queues, assisting at the information desks, and supporting various museum activities. It’s a fun and lively event, providing volunteers with the chance to experience Amsterdam’s cultural scene in a unique way.
- Amsterdam Light Festival : The Amsterdam Light Festival is a spectacular winter event showcasing light art installations throughout the city. Artists from around the world contribute to this event, turning Amsterdam’s canals and streets into a colorful canvas of lights. Volunteers can help with guiding tours, assisting visitors, setting up and taking down installations, and offering general support during the festival. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in art and creativity while helping others experience the festival.
My Recommendation
Even though I didn’t end up volunteering at the IN Amsterdam fair, the experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and introduced me to a new side of Amsterdam. The volunteering I’ve since done with events like Museum Night and IDFA has been an enriching way to connect with others and explore my interests. Participating in my employer’s volunteering programs has further deepened my sense of belonging.
Belonging isn’t something that happens overnight. It’s built through shared moments, common goals, and a willingness to try. So, take that first step. Whether it’s attending a volunteer fair, signing up for a local initiative, or simply exploring your neighborhood’s community boards, you might just find what you’re looking for. Who knows? The connections you make could turn out to be as enriching as the work itself.
