Volunteering on gender equality and sexuality is usually about education, inclusion, and safer communities. These projects can support women and girls, LGBTQ+ people, and anyone affected by discrimination or harmful stereotypes. The most effective initiatives are locally led, culturally aware, and focused on long-term change rather than quick fixes.

On this page you will find a simple overview of what these projects can look like, what volunteers often do, and what to check before you apply.

What these projects typically focus on

Many initiatives work in schools, youth centres, or community spaces to encourage respectful relationships and equal opportunities. Some focus on women’s empowerment through skills training and economic inclusion. Others support LGBTQ+ inclusion, safer spaces, and anti-discrimination work. In some contexts, projects also help improve access to health information and services, always respecting local laws and safeguarding rules.

Common volunteer activities

Tasks vary a lot depending on the host and the country, but they often fall into a few areas.

• Education and awareness. Volunteers may support lessons, youth activities, peer education, and community events. This can include co-facilitating workshops, helping run discussions, or creating simple materials that challenge stereotypes and promote mutual respect.
• Community support and outreach. Some organisations run information desks, community programmes, helplines, or local campaigns. Volunteers might help with outreach, event logistics, translation, or welcoming participants in a safe and respectful way.
• Skills sharing and empowerment. In women’s empowerment projects, activities can include supporting training on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, digital skills, or CV building. Volunteers may assist trainers, mentor small groups, or help prepare practical learning materials.
• Communications and storytelling. Many small NGOs need help with writing, social media, photography, newsletters, or updating websites. This is often a high-impact way to support a project without taking on sensitive frontline roles.
• Research and monitoring. Some hosts need help collecting feedback, organising surveys, mapping local services, or summarising results for reports. This can be a good fit if you like structured tasks and careful documentation.

Good signs when choosing a project

A strong host is clear about their approach and boundaries. Look for projects that describe safeguarding policies, privacy rules, and who supervises volunteers. It also helps when the organisation explains how they work with local partners and how they measure impact.

If a project involves vulnerable groups, check that volunteers are not asked to do specialised counselling, legal advice, or medical support unless they are qualified and supervised. A good organisation will protect both participants and volunteers with clear roles and training.

Safety and local context matters

Gender equality and LGBTQ+ topics are welcomed in many places, but in others they can be sensitive or even legally restricted. Before committing, ask practical questions about accommodation, privacy, house rules, local attitudes, and what support is available if you feel unsafe. If you are LGBTQ+ and travelling to a new destination, it is sensible to research the local context and plan for discretion when needed.

If you want a broad starting point from a well-known organisation, UNICEF has information about gender equality and education work worldwide: UNICEF.

Explore volunteer opportunities by topic

• Gender equality volunteer projects 🌈
• LGBTQ+ volunteer projects 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️
• Inclusive volunteering 🫱🏻‍🫲🏻
• Women empowerment projects 🙎🏻‍♀️

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