While some might think Miami Beach is a place to lie on the sand and party into the wee morning hours, others recognize the destination’s potential for voluntourism. Voluntourism opportunities allow travelers to do some good while in a destination and Miami Beach welcomes travelers willing to help preserve local beaches and gardens and positively impact the community.

“We openly invite and encourage visitors who want to give back and make the most of their time off to enjoy our global destination and spend some time helping to enrich our city for the future through voluntourism,” said Steve Adkins, chair, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority. “Travelers can positively impact the areas they make a point to visit while participating in activities like beach clean ups, gardening and planting events, along with a host of philanthropic opportunities available, even during a brief stay.”

The Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority recommends travelers check out a few select organizations when seeking voluntourism opportunities in the city. VolunteerCleanup.org engages volunteers to clean up neighborhoods, shorelines and waterways. Miami Design Preservation League aims to preserve the city’s architectural history. Volunteers at Miami Beach Botanical Garden chip in and help with standard gardening tasks. The Surfrider Foundation offers special volunteer opportunities related to environmental change at Miami Beach hotels and key spots around the city.

“Miami Beach is home to a number of organizations like the Miami Design Preservation League and VolunteerCleanup.org that connects travelers with unique ways to donate their time and skills during their vacation with us,” said Grisette Marcos, executive director, MBVCA. “We are known as a glamorous city around the world, but also a generous one with groups and individuals who devote themselves to preserving our natural habitat and lending a helping hand to those in need.”