Voluntourism

What is it?

Voluntourism provides travelers the opportunity to blend purpose with passion by offering volunteer service opportunities within local communities. VisitNorfolk recognizes the importance of giving back to the community. We know that visitors to our city, whether as a group of convention attendees or an individual leisure traveler, often express the desire to serve the destination and its residents. In response to this need, we partner with select local attractions to provide our visitors with the opportunity to include volunteer service into their overall itinerary.

Norfolk Voluntourism OpportunitiEs

NORFOLK BOTANICAL GARDEN

Volunteering at Norfolk Botanical Garden is not only gardening. Volunteers work in every department, inside and outdoors. Yes, there is lots of mulching and weeding done year-round, but volunteers also assist the administration team with paperwork and conduct retail transactions in the gift shop. Event volunteers have the pleasure of greeting guests as they enter the visitor center.

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Virginia Zoo

Zoo volunteers are a creative group of dedicated community members, each possessing a unique passion and desire to share the natural world with visitors. The volunteer program provides professional development opportunities, fun social events, regular recognition of service and many opportunities to learn about and get inside knowledge of the Zoo and conservation activities.

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Virginia Arts Festival

You’re invited to join the Virginia Arts Festival through volunteering to assist in fulfilling the Virginia Arts Festival’s mission to bring world-class performing arts to citizens and visitors and impact the lives of students through outstanding educational programs. The Virginia Arts Festival has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities to take part in.

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Hermitage Museum and Gardens

There are many opportunities to make a difference! You can donate your time and talents to the Hermitage in a multitude of ways. Volunteers are needed year-round in the Museum and Gardens as well as at special events.

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Elizabeth River Project

Become a river hero! Elizabeth River Project depends on volunteers throughout the year to help restore Norfolk’s beloved river. From cleanups to wetland plantings to oyster reef installations, there are opportunities for everyone to get involved.

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Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the EAstern Shore

As part of their mission of leading the effort to eliminate hunger in our community, the Foodbank provides healthy foods to individuals, families, seniors and veterans experiencing food insecurity. This organization depends on volunteers for critical tasks such as sorting non-perishable food items, packing food for Mobile Pantries, preparing youth-friendly food bags for the BackPack Program or distributing food at a Mobile Pantry site or special event.

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Union Mission Ministries

Based in Norfolk, Union Mission Ministries is dedicated to serving people experiencing homelessness in our community. Volunteer opportunities include landscaping and general yardwork, assisting in the Thrift Store or donation warehouse or preparing and providing meals.

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