Volunteering as an Expat in Zug

Moving to a new country is a journey of discovery—exciting, yes, but also full of uncertainty. As an expat in Zug, you may find yourself wondering how to truly feel at home, how to meet new people, or how to give back to the community that you have settled into. One way to do all of this at once is through volunteering. However, it’s important to understand that local charities and initiatives primarily operate in German, and while some may welcome international volunteers, language barriers can be a challenge. For many organizations, the capacity to accommodate English-speaking volunteers is limited, and learning the local language is often a key step toward deeper involvement.

That said, opportunities to contribute still exist. Whether your passion lies in environmental causes, social support, animal welfare, or community engagement, there are ways to make an impact while also integrating into Swiss life. In some cases, volunteering can even serve as a bridge to learning German, as it allows for practice in real-life settings. Additionally, for those unable to volunteer, supporting local initiatives through other means—such as donating—can also make a meaningful difference.

Photos (left to right): Trash Hero Zug, Madeline Bowen via Unsplash, Brockenhaus Zug, benevol Zug

Take, for instance, the Brockenhaus, a charming thrift shop run by the Frauenzentrale Zug. Behind its vintage treasures and second-hand finds lies a deep commitment to sustainability and community support. Volunteers play a key role in sorting donations, arranging items, and interacting with customers. However, as with many local initiatives, conversational German is beneficial to navigate day-to-day tasks effectively.

benevol Zug serves as the central hub for volunteer coordination in canton Zug. While the organization connects volunteers with a wide range of causes—including education, social services, and environmental efforts—expats should be prepared for language expectations before applying.

For those passionate about the environment, Trash Hero Zug organizes monthly cleanup events—simple but impactful acts of care for the planet. Since these events rely on collective action rather than extensive communication, they may be an accessible starting point for non-German speakers looking to engage with the community.

Caritas Zug focuses on helping refugees integrate into Swiss society through mentorship, cultural exchange, and even sports. While some roles may be accessible to expats still learning German, others may require fluency. Thankfully, you can rely on professional staff from Caritas Switzerland to guide you through the process.

For those who find joy in the company of animals, the animal shelter Tierheim Allenwinden provides a place to nurture and care for those without a voice. Feeding, cleaning, offering comfort—it’s a different kind of companionship, but one filled with unconditional gratitude. While many tasks are hands-on and may require minimal verbal communication, some coordination with staff members may still require basic German.

The Red Cross in Zug offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to make a lasting impact. Whether it’s helping with charitable events, assisting elderly neighbors, supporting children with their homework, or simply offering a friendly face and practical help when needed, volunteers play a vital role in building a strong community through small, consistent acts.

TIXI ZUG, a nonprofit transport service, also relies on volunteers to provide essential transportation for individuals who cannot travel freely due to illness, age, or disability. Volunteers drive specially equipped vehicles to transport people to doctor’s appointments, therapy sessions, social gatherings, and daily errands. Fluency in German is required for this role.

And finally, for those looking for a broader selection of volunteering opportunities, centralized online platforms like UBS Helpetica and Swiss Volunteers make it easier to find roles that match different skills and interests. UBS Helpetica connects volunteers with projects across Switzerland, focusing on social, environmental, and community-based initiatives. Swiss Volunteers, on the other hand, specializes in supporting large-scale events and sports-related volunteering, offering one-time engagement opportunities. These platforms allow expats to explore various ways to give back, often with the flexibility to choose roles that suit their language skills and availability.

Volunteering as an expat is not just about giving back—it’s also a way to become part of something larger than yourself. It offers a path to meet new people, gain cultural insights, and, in many cases, practice the local language in a meaningful way. While it’s crucial to recognize the challenges and limitations, it’s equally important to approach volunteering with an open mind, a willingness to adapt, and an understanding that integration is a two-way street.

If you’re looking for ways to connect with your new home, consider reaching out to local organizations, being proactive about language learning, and remaining flexible in how you contribute. You may not find an opportunity that perfectly matches your expectations right away, but with patience and persistence, you’ll discover ways to make a difference—both in the community and in your own journey of belonging.