Volunteering in Buenos Aires as an English Speaker

When I started volunteering six weeks after arriving in Buenos Aires, two things happened quickly: my Spanish improved faster than any class had managed, and I started to feel like I had a real reason to be here beyond being a consumer of the city.

English teaching is genuinely needed. Many Argentine children and young adults want to learn English and have limited access to quality instruction. As a native English speaker, you have something real to offer.

Where to volunteer

Sustainable Bolivia / Volunteer Argentina: English-language placement organisations with vetted programmes. They handle the logistics and find you a placement. Useful if you're new and uncertain where to start.

Enseñá Por Argentina: The Argentine equivalent of Teach First. While primarily for Argentine teachers, they partner with organisations that welcome English-conversation volunteers in supporting roles.

Techo: Works in informal settlements across Latin America on housing and community development. Buenos Aires has active Techo operations. Physical work, Spanish needed, but very welcoming to committed volunteers.

Red Solidaria: A volunteer matching network covering food banks, elderly care, tutoring, and more. Their website lists current needs across Buenos Aires.

Food banks (bancos de alimentos): Sorting, distributing, and managing food donations. Physical work, no Spanish required at the basic level.

Teaching English specifically

The most common volunteer role for British expats. Options:

• Through NGOs: Many community organisations in villas (informal settlements) and barrios have English programmes. Red Solidaria can match you with them.
• Independently: If you have teaching experience, several schools will accept volunteer hours from qualified teachers.
• Language exchange teaching: Organising informal English conversation groups is something you can set up yourself with basic Spanish.

What to expect

Most volunteer commitments are 4-8 hours per week. Argentine organisations are warm and grateful but not perfectly organised — expect flexibility. Turn up consistently, communicate clearly when you can't come, and your contribution will be valued.

The social dimension is real. You will meet Argentines who are not part of the expat world. Your Spanish will improve. Your understanding of Buenos Aires beyond Palermo will expand significantly.

Worth reading next

• Language Exchange in Buenos Aires
• Making Friends in Buenos Aires as a British Expat
• British Expat Community in Buenos Aires