Russia

"I had a wonderful experience. Working with the children was amazing — I felt like I had a real impact on their lives and I grew as a person … I wanted to learn more about Russian culture, about the political system, and about the orphanage system. I accomplished this through the guest lectures, Russian lessons, talking with the translators, and doing some independent travel on the weekends."

Andrew Navratil, Volunteer in Russia

Why Volunteer in Russia?

As a volunteer in Russia, you will have the unique opportunity to step inside a culture that was hidden behind "the iron curtain" for seventy years. Since the formation of the Russian Federation in 1991, Russia has seen a resurgence of efforts to recover its ancient national heritage through art, architecture and literature. Many of Russia's best places are only now being truly discovered by the outside world. Covering 6.5 million square miles and spanning two continents and eleven time zones, Russia is the largest country in the world. Within this vast expanse, you’ll find wilderness, lakes, and mountains, as well as hundreds of historically and culturally rich cities.

Cross-Cultural Solutions' volunteer programs in Russia are based in Yaroslavl, the unofficial capital of Russia's "Golden Ring," a symbolic circle of ancient towns located northeast of Moscow that contain some of Russia’s oldest architecture. Situated on the banks of the majestic Volga and smaller Kotorosl rivers, Yaroslavl is one of the most beautiful and historically preserved cities in Russia. Home to the country's oldest and best public theaters, the city is known for its picturesque cathedrals, gold-domed churches, ancient fortresses and monasteries, as well as for its vibrant artistic community. 2010 will mark the city’s 1,000th anniversary, and as a volunteer in Russia, you will have the chance to join the local population in the celebrations, which have already begun.

CCS offers the following programs in Russia:
Volunteer Abroad -- 2 to 11 weeks | Click for Start Dates
Insight Abroad -- 1 week | Click for Start Dates

Request more information about volunteering in Russia or read more about the CCS Experience in Yaroslavl, Russia from the topics below:

Read stories and testimonials of participants who have volunteered in Russia or watch one of our videos on volunteering abroad.