Our family of 5 will be in Garmisch for 1 week over Christmas 2023. Are there ways to volunteer for a few hours or a 1/2 day in a way that helps the local community? We're open to any type of volunteer opportunity.
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
8887 posts
I would contact the tourist information center with this sort of question.
Posted by
Munich
560 posts
A very nice idea but I also would suggest asking the tourist info.
Are you speaking German? Language barrier might be an issue. Just checked the internet and all pages related to volunteer in this area are in German.
One organization just came to my mind - the Tafel. Well know all over Germany the Tafel is distributing donated groceries to needy people. I know they are always looking for volunteers. According to info at the internet the Tafel in Garmisch is doing this on Fridays.
But maybe there are other possibilities which just did not come to my mind.
Posted by
Alsenborn, Germany
1488 posts
Garmisch has been an American R&R spot since 1945, Everyone speaks English.
That being said, Christmas in Germany is a time for families and it's a small, local, community. It's not like NYC. Don't expect a lot of need for "volunteers".
Posted by
Freedonia
16303 posts
Additionally, check the rules. In some cases, volunteering may be seen as "work" and that is not allowed on a general tourist visa.
Posted by
SE Pennsylvania
2662 posts
This thread from a while ago brings up some good points:
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/germany/volunteering-in-germany-and-austria
Posted by
Munich
560 posts
"Garmisch has been an American R&R spot since 1945, Everyone speaks English"
Maybe the ones working with tourists still or the ones got in touch with the Americans. But times changed and often the needy people (in case of mentioned Tafel) comming from everywhere. It is simply not true those days that everybody is still speaking English in Garmisch.