Does anyone know of any opportunities for volunteering, preferably non-animal shelter related, around the Lausanne area?

The language isn't much of a problem as I'm learning French and it would probably be beneficial for me to try speaking with others while I'm working for a good cause.

This was really something I wanted to do, would've been a great opportunity to help cook in volume, volunteer AND brush up my french ... unfortunately, its too far for me, i'm with a non-cooking organisation in Zurich now.

I do volunteer work for 'Terre des Hommes' in the Nyon area. Basically we work for children in need. There are English speakers in TdH but the basic working language is French, of course. I have always found the organisation very welcoming to volunteers, and the cause worthwhile. They have an active section in Lausanne. www.tdh.ch

I am also interested in some volunteer work. thanks for the links and ideas. If anyone is aware of any other's it would be apprecaited.

Does anyone do volunteering work in Lausanne such as helping with cooking and feeding the people in need? I would be interested in volunteering, also with working hours as 8am till 6pm I can do after work or the weekends. Anyone doing volunteering work that can suggest who to contact??

I have volunteered a few times with the Lausanne Voluntaires Sportifs http://www.volontaireslausannois.ch/html/index.php You will see their tent at most sport events in town.
Once you join, they will email you when they are looking for Volunteers for the different sporting events in town. Some examples that I have done are: giving out dossards for the Cyclotour, cleaning up the VIP tent after Athletissima and serving (non-alcoholic) drinks to soccer fans at a UEFA game (that was tough!). Normally you get some freebies and to see the event. It will take years to be able to get the good jobs, but its still fun and rewarding.
I always advise that my French is limited - but you survive and its a good learning experience, not just for the French.

In Zurich, I volunteer with the Red Cross. They have a variety of volunteering opportunities and are really great to work with. Check if there is one near you!