There are many ways to get involved in Paris life and be useful at the same time. Here are a few leads, for both French and English speakers.

L’Espace Bénévolat
This association takes inventory of the needs of other associations in Paris. A friendly staff and efficient website help volunteers define their qualifications and find organizations that need them. If you are strictly Anglophone, contact Janine Lockshin at anglophones@espacebenevolat.org. She is currently looking for English-speakers to assist students researching about internships and volunteer positions.
08 21 21 08 08 - www.espacebenevolat.org

SOS Helpline
The English-language confidential helpline needs volunteer listeners and supporters for its autumn training course. Recruitment sessions will be held at the American Church in October. For more info, contact soshelprecruitment@gmail.com.
01 46 21 46 46 - www.soshelpline.org

The American Church of Paris
This 150-year old institution hosts various outreach programs and keeps the English-speaking community informed about volunteer opportunities and humanitarian needs throughout the year.
01 40 62 05 00 - www.acparis.org/outreach.htm

WICE
A nonprofit Anglophone volunteer-based association that provides cultural and educational programs and services to the international community. Open House on October 3.
01 45 66 75 50 - www.wice-paris.org

Restos du Coeur
Started in 1985 by Coluche, the late, hilarious French comedian, these soup kitchens and grocery distribution centers (now located throughout France) are always looking for cheerful volunteers, especially during the winter and around Christmas time.
01 53 24 98 00 - www.restosducoeur.org

Croix Rouge
The French Red Cross is a major organization supervising many activities throughout the country and abroad, from clothing collections to office assistance and first-aid response teams.
0 820 16 17 18 - www.croix-rouge.fr

Secours Populaire Français
Similar to the Red Cross, with a focus on humanitarian projects within France in the fields of education, emergency aid, and human rights.
<01 53 41 39 39 - www.secourspopulaire.fr

Secours Catholique
One of the largest charities in France, the organization recruits regularly for short and long-term missions in France and overseas. In Paris, they are currently looking for a cook for a soup kitchen, a volunteer to supervise a bicycle repair workshop, and two people to accompany homeless people to cultural events in the evening and over the weekend.
01 48 07 58 21 - www.secours-catholique.asso.fr

Recommended reading: Etre bénévole à Paris (Parigramme, €6). A great little guide organized by themes: children, seniors, women, human rights, social justice, and education.