Bucharest is relatively new to being what may be considered to the average American. The Internet was first used in 1992 and the country only really starting modernizing after the year 2000. This is due to the complicated history of Romania, and as a result, throws out a lot of causes you can get involved with.
Popular causes in Bucharest. Despite improvements in Romania, orphans are still present and that is why volunteering in a Romanian orphanage is becoming increasingly popular. Volunteering in one of Bucharest's orphanages enables volunteers to help the community and to learn about the current and past crises of Romania.
If the thought of being a volunteer in an orphanage is too heart wrenching for you, gaining your TEFL certification while teaching English is another option. You’d be helping out local schools in Bucharest and gaining experience for your future as you do so!
Short term volunteer programs. As a short term volunteer — anywhere from one week to one month — you’ll be able to aid the local communities without having to take too much time off from work or school. It won’t matter if you can’t for the long term; each project will be grateful of help from all. The major con of this option is the limited time you’ll have to build a relationship with your colleagues.
Long term volunteer programs. Staying in Bucharest for a long term volunteer program will enable you to live as a local rather than a visitor. You’ll be able to take advantage of (usually) free language lessons provided and will learn about how the programs runs in detail. Although these programs are usually low cost, or even free, you’ll still have to financially support yourself, therefore you should only choose these long term programs if you’re fully capable.