.png)
Volunteering in Colombia 2026 as a Project Assistant with Alianza por la Solidaridad is a unique opportunity for young people who want to contribute to humanitarian action, human rights, and social justice while gaining hands-on experience in international cooperation. This fully funded volunteering program, implemented within the framework of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), allows volunteers to work directly with a professional humanitarian organization in a real-world development and humanitarian context.
Based in Santander de Quilichao, Colombia, the project places volunteers at the heart of initiatives focused on gender equality, migrants’ rights, climate justice, and active citizenship. It is ideal for motivated individuals who want to build solid foundations in project cycle management, monitoring, reporting, and advocacy while making a tangible impact in local communities.
About Alianza por la Solidaridad – ActionAid Colombia
Alianza por la Solidaridad is an international organization and a member of the ActionAid network, working to combat inequality and promote the recognition of human rights worldwide. In Colombia, Alianza operates in complex social contexts affected by inequality, migration, gender-based violence, and environmental challenges.
The organization’s mission is to strengthen active citizenship and empower communities to claim their rights. Through development cooperation, humanitarian action, and education, Alianza promotes long-term social transformation rooted in equality, dignity, and justice.
As a volunteer Project Assistant, you will join a multidisciplinary professional team, gaining first-hand insight into how international NGOs design, implement, and evaluate humanitarian and development projects.
Volunteer Role: Project Assistant – Humanitarian Action
The Project Assistant role is designed for volunteers interested in learning how humanitarian and development projects are managed from start to finish. Your main responsibilities will include:
- Supporting project proposal development, including background research and documentation
- Assisting in monitoring and evaluation of ongoing projects
- Contributing to reporting and project justification for donors
- Helping organize and document project activities
- Collaborating with local teams working on gender justice, migrants’ rights, and climate justice
- Supporting internal coordination and administrative tasks related to project management
This role provides a fast and intensive learning experience, allowing volunteers to understand the full project cycle of humanitarian and development cooperation.
Accommodation, Food, and Transport (Fully Funded)
This volunteering opportunity is 100% fully funded, ensuring equal access regardless of financial background.
Volunteers will receive:
- Shared accommodation with other residents, including a private bedroom
- All rent and utility bills covered by the organization
- Housing located close to the Alianza office
- A monthly allowance of €607.98, covering:
Local transportation
Personal expenses
- A phone card provided by the organization
- Health insurance (Henner) covering the full duration of the project
- Access to an organizational vehicle for project-related activities
This comprehensive support allows volunteers to focus fully on learning and contributing to the mission.
Training and Learning Opportunities
Training is a key component of the Volunteering in Colombia 2026 program. Volunteers receive both general and specialized training, including:
- Induction to Alianza por la Solidaridad and its mission
- Introduction to the European Solidarity Corps (ESC)
- Rights and responsibilities of volunteers and host organizations
- Youthpass certification process
- Health insurance and security protocols (Henner & SHEA)
- Training in feminist principles and gender equality
- Additional learning opportunities in:
Security management
Disability inclusion
These trainings ensure that volunteers are well-prepared to work ethically, safely, and effectively in a humanitarian environment.
Who Can Apply? – Participant Profile
This opportunity is open to motivated individuals who want to grow professionally while contributing to social justice. The ideal candidate is:
- Eager to learn and work in a team
- Adaptable and open to new cultural and professional contexts
- Interested in human rights, gender justice, and humanitarian action
- Motivated to develop project cycle management skills
- Comfortable working in a complex and dynamic environment
Previous experience in development or humanitarian aid is an advantage, but not mandatory. Alianza strongly encourages applications from individuals with fewer opportunities, including migrants, people from rural areas, or those with limited economic resources.
This volunteering experience is designed to be inclusive and accessible.
Why Volunteer in Colombia in 2026?
Colombia offers a rich cultural experience combined with meaningful social engagement. By volunteering in Santander de Quilichao, you will:
- Gain practical experience in humanitarian project management
- Work alongside experienced professionals in international cooperation
- Develop skills valued in NGOs, international organizations, and public institutions
- Strengthen your intercultural competence and adaptability
- Contribute directly to human rights, gender equality, and climate justice
This experience not only supports vulnerable communities but also strengthens your personal and professional profile for future careers in the humanitarian and development sectors.
Career Impact and Youthpass Recognition
At the end of the project, volunteers receive a Youthpass certificate, officially recognizing the competencies acquired during the volunteering period. Skills developed include:
- Project management and reporting
- Teamwork and intercultural communication
- Problem-solving in complex environments
- Understanding of humanitarian principles and rights-based approaches
These skills are highly valued by employers, universities, and international organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this volunteering opportunity paid?
The project is not salaried, but it is fully funded, including accommodation, insurance, and a monthly allowance of €607.98.
Do I need previous humanitarian experience?
No. Motivation and willingness to learn are more important than prior experience.
Where is the project located?
Santander de Quilichao, Colombia.
Is health insurance included?
Yes, comprehensive health insurance (Henner) is provided.
Can people with fewer opportunities apply?
Absolutely. The program actively encourages inclusive participation.