The International Baccalaureate (IB) encourages students not only to excel academically but also to become active members of their communities through either Service as Action or Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). For many students, finding ways to complete Service as Action or CAS requirements can be a challenge, particularly when it comes to choosing activities that align with their personal interests and skills. Fortunately, IB students who are learning multiple languages such as English, French and German can volunteer and help others while using their language skills. Volunteering not only benefits the community but also offers students a chance to develop new skills, engage with diverse groups, and fulfill the IB requirements.

In Zagreb, students can access a variety of volunteering opportunities through the Volonterski Centar Zagreb (Volunteering Center Zagreb). The center offers a wide range of activities that allow students to contribute to the society while applying their knowledge of languages. Here are four volunteering opportunities where IB students can help others and use their language skills to support various groups, from elderly citizens to refugees, while also fulfilling their CAS project requirements.

One of the existing volunteering opportunities for IB students learning German is with the Dom za starije osobe Sveta Ana (Saint Ana Retirement Home) in Zagreb. This project invites students, teachers, or anyone with a good knowledge of the German language to help elderly residents in learning German once a week. The classes are held in the morning, and volunteers are encouraged to not only teach the language but also contribute to a social environment where the elderly can maintain and improve their cognitive abilities. The classes are especially aimed at residents of New Zagreb to help them exercise their minds by introducing them to the German language. Volunteers should have developed basic teaching skills as they will be guiding the class in small groups. This is a great opportunity for students to enhance their teaching abilities while helping the elderly stay mentally active. Additionally, the transportation costs are covered, and all necessary teaching materials are provided. The activity runs from December 3, 2024, to December 31, 2025, and takes place every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

For students fluent in English or German, another fantastic opportunity is with Dom za starije osobe Maksimir (Maksimir Retirement Home). Volunteers are needed to assist elderly residents in either learning or improving their foreign language skills. This includes teaching the basics of speaking and writing in English and German. Volunteers can guide small groups or work one-on-one with residents, depending on their skill level. The activity is scheduled to run from February 14, 2024, to December 31, 2024. This volunteering role provides a wonderful opportunity for students to practice their language skills while making new connections. The experience is also enriching for students interested in helping senior citizens, who may otherwise not have the chance to learn new languages later in life.

For students studying languages such as English, German, French, Spanish, or another language, a new volunteering opportunity can be found at Dom za starije osobe Medveščak (Medveščak Retirement Home), where students or even teachers of foreign languages are invited to lead workshops and language courses for the elderly. Volunteers are needed to assist in creating a learning environment for the elderly, helping them engage with foreign languages as a way to practice their cognitive functions. This volunteer role allows IB students to use their language knowledge in a meaningful way, while also giving back to a group of people that can benefit from such learning experiences. The activity is available from October 21, 2024, to June 30, 2025. This is a perfect opportunity for IB students with a passion for languages and teaching, as it combines both aspects in a setting that provides personal growth.

For students interested in a more dynamic and international volunteering experience, the Hrvatski institut za razvoj obrazovanja (Croatian Institute for Education Development) offers an exciting opportunity to participate in Erasmus+ projects. The institute is actively involved in Erasmus+ projects, which focus on education and creativity, giving students a chance to volunteer in a variety of roles, including assisting with educational activities and helping to organize mobility projects both in Croatia and abroad. Volunteers will have the chance to participate in trainings, workshops, and events that are part of the Erasmus+ program, as well as contribute to social media posts and advertising. For IB students learning English, this is an excellent opportunity to not only practice the language but also gain valuable international experience and contribute to EU educational projects. The volunteering period runs from July 12, 2024, to July 12, 2025, and volunteers can choose to participate both online and in person, depending on the requirements of the projects. This experience provides the additional benefit of receiving certificates and recommendations for future academic and professional needs.

These volunteering opportunities are just a few examples of how IB students can use their language skills to contribute meaningfully to society while fulfilling Service as Action or CAS requirements. By volunteering, students can enhance their language proficiency in real-world situations, learn how to teach others, and engage in activities that support their personal and professional growth. The Volonterski Centar Zagreb offers a variety of volunteer roles, and students can select activities that align with their personal interests, language abilities, and schedule. Whether it’s teaching elderly residents, assisting with language courses, or contributing to international education projects, these volunteer opportunities provide students with valuable experiences that will shape their future careers and make a great difference in their communities.