volunteering

Only a life lived for others is worth living

We continually need the help of volunteers on every level. Volunteering in Cape Verde is an amazing experience and we accept volunteers from all over the world.

In addition to caring for the animals in Cape Verde, we need administrative help (fundraising, website management, etc.) which can even be done remotely.

All volunteers are expressly required to be tolerant, diplomatic, and possess a cooperative spirit (both with local staff, whose contribution is indispensable, and with other volunteers). Also, volunteers must have a willingness to understand a different culture other than their own.

In our clinic we handle both stray animals and animals with owners/guardians who have no other place to go. It is important to know how to communicate even though there may be language or cultural barriers.

Volunteers should be versatile and capable of handling stressful situations: group life, working in a different context, away from home, in a different climate, with different food options, the continual presence of animals and their owners/guardians that need attention.

simabo volunteer washing a dog

Working for Simabo in Cape Verde is a commitment. The work can be physically exhausting and emotionally draining, so that could leave little room for other activities.

The goal must be “to bring aid to the animals”.

VOLUNTOURISM

Volontourism means volunteering your time, skills, and energy with an organization, issue, or causes to help make a difference in communities around the world as part of your vacation package.

Are you a voluntourist?

We have the right program fo you! 

During your stay you can volunteer not only with our cats and dogs, but also in different projects in the community, according to your interests. 

You will be able to:

We can organise your staying, your trip and your volunteering experience:

our voluntourists reviews

5/5

“The NGO Simabo on the island of São Vicente (Cape Verde), was my first volunteering experience. I found a dedicated team that struggles to get the job done and that is changing the way the whole community treats the animals – dogs and cats – on the street. It was a tiring, but rewarding job. Silvia and Paolo are dedicated and passionate people for what they do. Being a volunteer at Simabo was an unforgettable experience and I highly recommend it.”

Annamaria (Brazil)

5/5

Simabo is a very good association doing very important work for the animals on the island, you will get to know their work and see for yourself how needed their presence is! I worked in the dog shelter, walking and helping to take care of the dogs staying there. You can truly feel the happiness you bring the dogs when you come to their rooms with the leashes and how calm and satisfied they are when you finish walking them. The friends you will make with other volunteers and workers in the organisation are also a big plus. Was an overall great experience!

Telma (Iceland)

4.8/5

“I had a great time in Mindelo with Simabo. I had a private and comfortable room, an amazing and cozy work place and very competent colleagues and supervisors. I had the opportunity to organise my own work schedule and work according to my rythm. The supervisors gave me a lot of advice and supported me in every aspect of my stay. Definitely going to come back” 

Antonio (Italy)

[optin-form]
Book a room in our hostel

The Hostel finances our ONG Simabo, which takes care of the street dogs of the island.