Volunteer in Russia

By volunteering at Kitezh or Orion, you will work in the community by teaching the children English, take part in community life and help out with any development projects (such as building new houses or helping on the farm). We have sent over 250 international volunteers of all ages to Kitezh and Orion, and organised numerous school group visits and exchanges. All have had a wonderful experience and thoroughly enjoyed the time to practise their Russian language skills.
You’ll even have time to squeeze in a visit to Moscow!

Overview:
3 months (flexible) opportunity to volunteer at Kitezh or Orion Children’s Communities. You will live with one of the foster families, teach English to children and take part in the daily working and social life of the community: gardening, cooking, building, playing games, art & crafts, music, drama, sport with the kids.
This is a wonderful opportunity to experience real Russian culture and make a difference to the lives of children who had a bad start in life. It is advised that you have a basic understanding of the Russian language. The time you spend with the children will make a positive impact on their learning and development, and you can enjoy an experience you will cherish forever.

Requirements:
No essential skills required though any of the following would be useful:

• some knowledge of Russian language
• TEFL or experience in teaching English
• experience of working with children
• be happy to help with building, cooking and gardening
• willingness to adapt to a different culture and to participate fully in the life of the community are essential
• Police check in country of residence is required

For information about costs, please send us a completed Application Form or email us at [email protected]

“Make the most of your time with the families because they really do become the main reason you want to return.”
– Ellie, 2018 Volunteer

“I had a really great experience. The help with preparations leading up to the trip was fantastic and once I arrived I felt very welcome. My Russian has vastly improved thanks to living with a family and playing with the children. I have learnt so much about Russian family life and culture, and about the lives of young Russians in a unique way that is not possible to learn about simply by staying Moscow for a while. The community is a unique and very special place – I recommend it to anyone!.”
– Sophie, 2016 Volunteer