overseas volunteer trip

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Volunteer, Intern & Study Abroad

Trusted programs that make a real impact

High School Specials

Volunteering for Teenagers

It's not too late to think about your summer trip! Join our High School Specials for safe and hassle-free volunteer trips for teenagers.

Study Abroad

Study Abroad in Costa Rica

Make Costa Rica your classroom this Summer or Fall and earn academic credit as you participate in hands-on projects.

Pre-Med Programs

Medical Programs for Pre-Med Students

Looking for clinical exposure and volunteer service hours? Find your Pre-Med Project and give your medical school application a boost.

Help make a difference in local communities and learn new skills. Get involved in Childcare, Wildlife Conservation, and more

Gain practical work experience and build your CV in areas such as Business, Medicine, and Journalism.

Hassle-free, pre-planned trips for 15-18 year olds that help you step out of your comfort zone

Discover what you're capable of

Projects Abroad is the world’s largest provider of international volunteering, internships, and meaningful travel experiences. We’ve been running for over 30 years  and have been trusted by over  130,000 participants  who’ve joined our award-winning trips.

As champions of  Responsible Travel , all our volunteer projects work towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This means you’re helping to work towards a better and more sustainable future for all.

While you’re making an impact, we ensure you do so safely. Safety is at the heart of everything we do, which is why you’ll have access to 24/7 support for the duration of your trip. From start to finish, we’re there for you.

We truly believe that travelling abroad should be easy, fun, and rewarding. That’s why we take care of everything, so you can focus on making the most of your time abroad. Whether it's our impactful volunteering projects , structured internships , High School Specials , or Authentic Adventures , you'll be sure to get the Projects Abroad gold standard of staff support.

So come and join us. Learn new skills, meet new people, make a real difference, and have the experience of a lifetime.

We cannot wait to help you find out what you’re capable of.

What makes us different?

Gold standard of support.

Volunteer with total peace of mind. Our award-winning safety measures go beyond reacting to issues. We proactively assess risks, train expert staff, thoroughly vet accommodation, and even have an in-house medical advisor. We leave nothing to chance.

How we keep you safe

Hassle-free Approach

We take care of everything, so you don’t have to. Shopping around for insurance, organizing airport pickups, and finding safe, clean accommodation all takes time and extra money. We take care of it all for you, and it’s included in the price as standard.

Our hassle-free approach

Make a Real Impact

This isn’t just a vacation and we don’t want to waste your time. That’s why we invest in planning, measurement tools, and training resources. This means any project you choose is meaningful and creates real, positive change where it’s needed the most.

How you make an impact

Medicine Internship in Mexico

Volunteering with Wildlife in Botswana for Teenagers

Human Rights Internship in Mongolia

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

We’d be happy to talk about creating a custom project for you. Most of our staff have been volunteers themselves, so they’re ready to answer your questions, big or small.

Call one of our experts on:

We love meeting up with people to talk about our projects and give advice. If you’d like to meet us in person, see the options below:

One on One Meetings

We have staff in the USA who are always available to meet you. We can also arrange for you to meet former Projects Abroad volunteers.

We’ll arrange a meeting at a time and place that suit you.

Career fairs and presentations

We regularly attend Careers Fairs and do presentations at schools, colleges, universities and businesses across the country.

See where we’ve been recently and arrange for us to come and share our passion for volunteering with you.

Trip Formats

Our projects come in different styles and packages so you can choose a trip that suits you:

A flexible project that gives you the support and independence you need as you volunteer

Become part of a set team and tackle a new challenge together

Tailor-made trips for volunteers over 50 who want to make a difference

Travel abroad and learn a language as you immerse yourself in a new culture

Try something different this Spring Break by joining one of our Projects

Students Aged 18+, wanting adventure and fun while gaining academic credit for their university studies

Join our overseas Pre-Med Programs to gain clinical exposure and community service hours to boost your medical school application.

Tailor-made Group Trips

Volunteer with a school, university, club, organization, or corporate group.

If you're looking to volunteer with 5 or more friends or colleagues, we can provide a project to suit your exact requirements, including evening and weekend activities and a tailor-made itinerary.

Some of the media Projects Abroad has featured in:

Our accreditations

Where do you want to go?

Australasia

Latin America

What do you want to do?

Wildlife & Animals

Humanitarian Aid

Volunteer Abroad

All you need to do is navigate our website according to your interests or preferred travel destination and choose one or more of our highly rated volunteer opportunities abroad.

Our staff of volunteer placement professionals is here to assist you every step of the way.

Make a difference by volunteering abroad – Join GoEco!

Volunteer Abroad - Top Programs & Opportunities

Volunteer Abroad Blog & Testimonials

10 Best Volunteer Programs for 2024

As borders open and travel becomes more accessible, now is the time to plan that volunteer trip you’ve been wanting to go on! Going into 2024, we want to offer our best. And by doing so, we have curated a list of our 10 best volunteer trips to kick off the new year!

Testimonials

The accommodations and food were truly awesome! We had a very nice restaurant, with lots of great lunch options, and wonderful home-cooked food every night for supper... It was real value for your money!

I absolutely loved the amazon shelter. I returned again a 2nd time. The highlight of my time... was the care of Ellie the Tapir... and one of the sloths. I assisted with many animal rescues and releases. The staff at the shelter are all friendly... Over the road there is a little bar with a lovely view of the amazon river and the sunset.

It was amazing apart from doing a great thing I’ve also learned a lot about turtles and ocean. I met really great people which made this trip unforgettable. I recommend everyone going to Maldives for volunteering you will never regret that.

An unforgettable experience! Being able to identify individual dolphins even from over 20 years ago and name new dolphins, gives a deeper sense of connection to these magnificent creatures. I also enjoyed learning about dolphin communication. It’s nice spending the day on the boat and then relaxing in the thermal pools. 10 out of 10, I would love to do this again!

I spent 4 weeks and loved my time there. The work is tough & hands on but very rewarding!! It’s so lovely to see first hand how best to rehabilitate the animals. Everyone at the shelter was nice and friendly. It’s an experience I’ll never forget, and hope to one day have again!!

Volunteering in the Maldives – One Fantastic Month

Posted By: Andrea

spent one month at the Marine and Turtle Conservation project in the Maldives and it was a really positive experience. Although it was my first volunteer project and I wasn’t sure what to expect.....

Volunteering in South Africa – Opportunity for Growth

Posted By: Madison

This summer my friend Evan and I volunteered in Cape Town, South Africa for the Teach and Surf in Cape Town project and I can truly say that the experience changed me for the better! ....

Six Weeks I Will Never Forget

Posted By: Shaelyn R.

uring my stay in Costa Rica at the Animal Rescue and Conservation project, I had some amazing moments, and some frustrating moments. But my overall six weeks I had there I will never forget.

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Travel with Purpose

Our immersive, all-inclusive, award-winning trips engage you in authentic cultural experiences, meaningful volunteer projects, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Discover the world and find your purpose in it with GIVE.

Our immersive, all-inclusive trips engage you in authentic cultural experiences, meaningful volunteer projects, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Discover the world and find your purpose in it with GIVE.

Transformative & Immersive Travel Experience

Locally led & sustainably operated, all-inclusive itineraries & 360° support, transformative & immersive travel, locally led & socially responsible, 360° support & all-inclusive itineraries.

  Meaningful travel With GivE

You deserve to  find your purpose . You’re eager to explore the world and have a positive impact . But how? Our all-inclusive trips engage you in meaningful volunteer projects, authentic cultural immersion, and epic adventures so you can discover the world and find your purpose in it.

Our award-winning trips will transform your life, igniting new passions and inspiring incredible personal growth.  Work hard, play hard  alongside local people on locally-led projects, immerse yourself in new cultures , build lifelong friendships , and  become a global citizen  with GIVE.

  The impact you’ll make

  empowering communities from the ground up.

Work alongside community members on sustainable projects that drive lasting change — education, eco-friendly infrastructure, regenerative agriculture, women’s empowerment, reforestation and wildlife conservation projects.

  Recent Awards 

“GIVE changed my entire life. From the very first day of reaching the island of Zanzibar, I saw the world in a different light. The cliche expectations of serving others and volunteering were achieved but I had no idea that I would experience the best 2 weeks of my life. Giving is a lot more than monetary handouts. If you want to change the world, go and get your hands a little dirty. But trust me when I say that the locals will help you more than you could ever help them. Don’t sit and wonder what it’s like or ask others what it’s like. Go. Go and give your time and effort with the best organization you could find.” – Chase, Tanzania.

Learn more about our Tanzania trip.

“There is no other tour. Regular tourists go to touristy locations and crowded spaces full of people vacationing. This trip gives you the opportunity to be in remote villages that no other tourist will experience. You’re surrounded by Thai culture and learn some of the language. If you want to be immersed and experience Thailand with strangers that become best friends, I recommend GIVE. ” – Daija, Thailand

Learn more about our Thailand trip.

“ Do it . It is the best thing that you will ever do. The people you meet, the friendships that feel like family, and the difference you are making. If you are ever traveling whilst volunteering I’d go with GIVE a million times over because of their morals and ethics towards how to go about working with these communities.” -Erin, Laos

Learn more about our Laos trip.

“I have never been so affected by a trip or a group of people in my life. GIVE has offered me the chance to grow as a person and help others who I believe are deserving of every possible opportunity I have, and they have given me more than I thought I would receive. They have given me a new family, a new home, and a new mission and passion in life… I have learned more about myself and who I am. I now am part of a community that will forever be connected worldwide…I have been abroad before and have done volunteer work in the past but nothing compares to this trip and these people” – Alexandra, Nicaragua

Learn more about our Nicaragua trip.

“This trip was a life changing experience to have. You get to immerse yourself in the culture and learn something new every minute you’re there. You get to meet locals and natives of Hawai’i and learn their stories and ancestry lineage and work with them in helping with bringing back their culture. Wither by helping on sustainable farms or cleaning up on beach sides, you get to become connected to the land and the people you’re helping. You also get to meet new people from around the world and hear about why they are also there to help and what their own stories are as well. It is an eye opening and life changing experience and it is worth the time and effort that is put into getting on the trip” – Hailey, Hawai’i

Learn more about our Hawai’i trip.

“I learned, experienced and grew so much on this trip. I signed up because I was excited about elephants and scuba diving, but the reasons I’ll definitely go on another GIVE trip is the connections I made and the growth I experienced.” – Dan, Thailand Scuba

Learn more about our Scuba Conservation trip.

“Spending a week learning about elephants through their mahout was incredible! We were able to see a bond between the two and learn all about the beauty and intelligence of Asian elephants. Visiting the sanctuaries and trekking through the jungle was so cool and I made lifelong friends!” – Ava, Elephant Experience

Learn more about our Elephant Experience trip.

“This was such a unique experience that allowed me to learn more about conservation and the importance of mindfulness about the land that we live on. I was able to learn more about the Snoqualmie tribe while responsibly working and recreating in their landscape. The people I’ve met are so special and as passionate as I am! The volunteer work and experiences that we accomplished in such a small period of time was truly inspiring and got me thinking about a career in conservation and sustainability.” – Nick, Pacific NW

Learn more about our Pacific NW trip.

“I completed the WILD course this past March, and it was one of the best experiences I have ever had as a student. I honestly did not think I could learn as much as I did within one week, and the course was a perfect balance of learning and fun. Not only did we get to learn in the classroom, but we would venture out into the Cascade Mountains and do real-time Wilderness First Aid scenarios, which solidified our knowledge of the topics we discussed. The lodge staff was so kind and went above and beyond to ensure we had a comfortable stay, and the fellow students I met during the course were awesome and we have stayed in-touch with one another since! Those running the course were not only great teachers, but created an inspiring, nurturing, and fun environment for each student to step into their own leadership roles.” – Haylie, WILD

Learn more about our WILD course.

“Costa Rica is the most beautiful country I’ve ever been to. You really get to see the entire country from the jungle to the Caribbean. I learned so much about permaculture and how to apply it to all things in life. Can’t wait for my next GIVE trip! ” – Carly, Costa Rica

Learn more about our Costa Rica trip.

and why we do what we do

• Our Mission & Methodology

GIVE’s Mission:  To inspire growth, empower global citizens,  and ignite sustainable change worldwide .

Give’s promise: people, projects & principles above profit.

With over 10 million people volunteering abroad each year and more than a  thousand different organizations offering volunteer programs abroad, it’s no surprise that one of the most common questions we hear is, “What makes GIVE different?”  In fact, it was  this very question that inspired GIVE’s founding in 2011.  After  witnessing the good, the bad and the downright ugly sides of the volunteer  tourism industry, we ultimately determined that there is real potential for international volunteers to have positive impacts in lower-income countries, but it would require a fresh, focused approach to truly foster sustainable change. That’s why we’ve made  a   lasting commitment to put  people, projects and principles above profit.   SEE MORE

GIVE’s Family: Happy People Sail Fast

This principle is clearly manifested in both our host community members and volunteers, and it all starts with our unrivaled team of staff. The GIVE family is a concept we’ve fostered since day one, as we’ve established a clear pipeline for international staff to learn and grow over several years of experience in the field. All of our international staff started as GIVE volunteers, gained necessary certifications and skill sets during GIVE’s WILD course, went on to increase their involvement as in-country interns, and are now facilitating an unparalleled volunteer experience as GIVE Guides and Project Coordinators. We are also proud to employ local Guides and Project Coordinators in each of our destinations, who act as a critical link between our volunteers and the communities we empower. These are truly some of the most passionate, responsible and inspiring human beings on the planet! SEE MORE.

The Places You’ll explore

On our immersive, one-of-a-kind trips.

Ready to start your adventure?

• Project Search Tool
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• How much does it cost?
• Read our FAQs

Volunteer Abroad Programs

Discover the best volunteer opportunities abroad in over 50 destinations with international volunteer hq.

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is the world’s leading volunteer travel organization - trusted by 136,471 volunteers since 2007. With volunteer abroad programs starting from just $20 per day including accommodation, you won’t find a more affordable and trustworthy organization for impactful volunteer vacations, gap years, volunteer trips abroad, or an alternative break.

You can volunteer overseas with IVHQ for durations ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks, with volunteering abroad programs available year round in Africa , Asia , South America , Central America , North America , Europe , the Caribbean , the Middle East and the Pacific .

Discover North America

Or explore by destination.

Discover Central America

Or explore by destination:.

Discover the Caribbean

• Puerto Rico
• Trinidad and Tobago

Discover South America

• Galapagos Islands

Discover Europe

Discover the Middle East

Discover Africa

• South Africa
• Victoria Falls

Discover Asia

• Philippines

Discover the Pacific

• New Zealand

See the world. Immerse yourself. Make a difference.

300+ projects across 40+ countries.

Volunteer programs running in more countries than anyone else

Most affordable & flexible

Fully hosted experiences from only $20 per day including accommodation

Ethical, responsible & regenerative

We're a Certified B Corporation

Impact driven programs run by locals

Supports long-term employment for local communities

Volunteer Abroad Opportunities

Volunteering abroad with IVHQ enables you to make meaningful contributions to community projects in the areas of education, healthcare, construction, childcare, community development, conservation, social enterprise, volunteering with animals, wildlife and more. Browse by project type .

Looking for inspiration on where to volunteer abroad? Here’s where you can make a difference with IVHQ:

• All regions
• Africa & Middle East
• North & South America

Volunteer in Argentina

Volunteer in Australia

Volunteer in Bali

Volunteer in Belize

Volunteer in Brazil

Volunteer in Cambodia

Volunteer in China

Volunteer in Colombia

Volunteer in Costa Rica

Volunteer in Croatia

Volunteer in Ecuador

Volunteer in Fiji

Volunteer in the Galapagos Islands

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer in Greece

Volunteer in Guatemala

Volunteer in India

Volunteer in Italy

Volunteer in Jamaica

Volunteer in Jordan

Volunteer in Kenya

Volunteer in Laos

Volunteer in Madagascar

Volunteer in Mexico

Volunteer in Morocco

Volunteer in Namibia

Volunteer in Nepal

Volunteer in New Zealand

Volunteer in Peru

Volunteer in the Philippines

Volunteer in Portugal

Volunteer in Puerto Rico

Volunteer in Romania

Volunteer in South Africa

Volunteer in Spain

Volunteer in Sri Lanka

Volunteer in Tanzania

Volunteer in Thailand

Volunteer in Trinidad and Tobago

Volunteer in the United States

Volunteer in Victoria Falls

Volunteer in Vietnam

Volunteer in Zambia

Volunteer in Zanzibar

See what's required to visit your chosen destination

Fill out the quick form below to find out what the border and visa requirements are for the IVHQ destination you're traveling to, based on your country of residence.

Volunteering abroad involves traveling to a foreign country or region with the purpose of dedicating your time, energy, skills, and efforts to assist local communities, organizations, or projects. It can encompass a diverse range of volunteer activities that contribute to the betterment of society, such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, wildlife conservation, community development, and more.

Through volunteering abroad, you have the unique opportunity to truly immerse yourself in a different culture, broaden your global perspective, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. This experience enables you to step out of your comfort zone, acquire new skills, and create meaningful connections with local communities and other volunteers from around the world.

There are a number of reasons why volunteering abroad can be a transformative and rewarding experience for international volunteers. These include:

• Make a positive impact: To make a tangible difference in the lives of others and contribute to meaningful causes
• Cultural immersion: To immerse yourself in a new culture and gain a deeper understanding of different customs, traditions, and ways of life
• Explore new destinations: To explore exciting destinations around the world and travel with purpose
• Personal growth: To develop new skills, build self-confidence, adapt to unfamiliar situations, and overcome obstacles
• Make new friends: To build international connections and form long-lasting relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, including fellow volunteers and local community members
• Career enhancement: To showcase to future employers your commitment, adaptability, cross-cultural understanding, and ability to work in diverse environments

Learn about how volunteering abroad has supported the growth and development of previous IVHQ volunteers.

To volunteer abroad with IVHQ, you generally need to be at least 18 years old (with some programs available for younger participants), have a good command of English (knowledge of the local language may be beneficial in some cases), and meet any specific requirements for certain projects (ie. Medical projects).

Most volunteer programs do not require specific skills or technical expertise - all you need is a passion for making a difference and a willingness to learn. Beneficial skills for volunteering abroad can include communication, cultural sensitivity, empathy, flexibility, teamwork, problem-solving, and patience.

IVHQ offers you the flexibility to choose the duration of your volunteer abroad program with options ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks. Note that some programs may have minimum duration requirements so this is important to take into consideration when selecting your volunteer program.

There is no age limit to volunteering abroad - IVHQ has hosted volunteers up to 88 years-old on programs. In fact, volunteering abroad is becoming an increasingly popular way for older adults to see the world, be immersed in new cultures, and engage in a regenerative form of travel. When choosing a volunteer program, older volunteers may wish to consider factors such as physical demands and accommodations to ensure a comfortable and fulfilling experience. These volunteer program recommendations for over 40s is the perfect place to start your search.

There are numerous destinations around the world where you can volunteer abroad. IVHQ offers programs in 40+ countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific. When deciding where to volunteer abroad, you should consider the type of cause you want to support, your skills and interests, destinations you would like to visit, how long you can commit to, and your budget. IVHQ has a helpful volunteer program search tool that enables you to find the perfect program tailored to your unique requirements.

Some popular destinations for volunteering abroad include:

You can learn more about IVHQ’s top-rated volunteer programs in the Best Volunteer Abroad Programs for 2024 Guide .

Volunteering abroad through IVHQ follows a guided process that ensures you feel supported every step of the way. Regardless of whether you’re a first-timer or experienced traveler, the IVHQ team is committed to ensuring you have access to superior tools and support services both before you leave home and after you arrive in country. The steps involved in volunteering abroad are:

• Research and choosing a program
• Application
• Pre-Departure preparations
• Fundraising and financing
• Training and orientation
• In-country orientation and volunteer experience
• Reflection and post-volunteering activities

All IVHQ volunteers receive access to a comprehensive Pre-Departure Checklist, Program Guide and Online Volunteer Training Course so you can ensure you are properly prepared and have ticked off all the essential steps before embarking on a volunteer abroad trip.

The cost of volunteering abroad with IVHQ varies depending on factors like the program duration, destination, and specific project. Program fees start from as low as $20/day and include accommodation, meals, airport pickup, orientation, local support, and emergency assistance. IVHQ also requires a registration fee. Additional expenses may include flights, travel insurance, visas, vaccinations, and personal expenses. To find the cheapest volunteer programs and compare your options, visit the Affordable Volunteer Program Fees page.

It is unlikely that you can volunteer abroad for free as most volunteer programs have associated costs, including flights, accommodation, meals and other living expenses. However, you may be able to minimize expenses through grants, scholarships, fundraising, or by participating in exchange programs. To learn more about offsetting your travel costs, see How To Volunteer Abroad For Free .

Volunteer work abroad encompasses a wide range of opportunities, including:

• Medical and Health
• Sea Turtle and Marine Conservation
• Wildlife and Animal Care
• Construction and Renovation
• Environment and Conservation
• Climate Action
• Community Development
• Special Needs Care
• Women’s Empowerment

IVHQ has the world’s largest range of volunteer work opportunities with 300+ programs available in 40+ countries.

You can find success stories from previous international volunteers through the IVHQ Blog or IVHQ Reviews .

How to get started

Be the first to know.

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Offering Innovations in

Comprehensive Development

Employing the skills and energy of

Volunteers Worldwide

We Catalyze Change Worldwide.

Our volunteers are compassionate, committed individuals – professionals, retirees, students, tradespeople, and others from all backgrounds who know the power of positive, collective action.  Working together in teams and under the direction of local leaders abroad or in the US, volunteers nourish children, mentor youth, teach students, support parents, encourage refugees, inspire teachers, care for patients, and span the globe responding to community needs wherever we’re invited to serve.

Join us volunteer abroad or donate, and make real change happen in the world.

We Engage Short-Term Volunteers Worldwide in Long-Term Development.

At Global Volunteers, we take a positive, innovative approach to comprehensive human and economic development. We leverage the world’s endlessly renewable resource – volunteers – to catalyze change while always working under the direction of resourceful local leaders. Our volunteers create, nurture, and sustain the well-being of the world’s children and their families through targeted service in homes, classrooms, clinics, community centers, hospitals, orphanages, childcare centers, libraries, government offices, and farm fields to provide essential services; helping children thrive. We’re invited by community leaders all over the world to serve alongside local people in one-to-three-week service programs; investing in long-term development projects. We support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on safe, meaningful, impactful, service-learning projects, and have earned the highest possible ratings from external nonprofit evaluators, validating that Global Volunteers acts with integrity and transparency, is highly effective, and exceeds industry standards across virtually all areas.

Support genuine, lasting impact as a volunteer abroad or in the US, funding partner, or donor.

“Volunteering abroad holds magic on so many fronts. It’s the springboard for my global explorations. I can’t imagine one without the other anymore.” -Seija Webb, 8-time Global Volunteer

Volunteer Abroad and in the US. Make Positive Change Happen Here.

Teach conversational English to enthusiastic learners in the fascinating cities of Xi’an and Kunming

Cook Islands

Tutor English & Math in the spectacular tropical island of Rarotonga

Build bridges of friendship through conversational English classes and other support of the Cuban people in Ciego de Ávila or Havana.

Teach conversational English to students of all ages in a seaside town on the island of Crete

Teach conversational English to eager youth in a picturesque coastal community

Teach conversational English, engage in light labor and care for children in Kathmandu.

Serve impoverished children and families, and teach English to adult students in the bustling city of Lima

Teach conversational English and immerse yourself in the Polish culture of Siedlce.

Teach conversational English to elementary, high school, and university students in historic Beja

United States, Texas

Lend a helping hand to impoverished families who struggle to earn a living, educate their children and contribute to a spiritually rich community.

Help women and children reach their full potential in an impoverished seaside village

Support a community’s quest for development through nutrition, health and education projects

United States, Montana

Work on community projects alongside members of the Blackfeet Nation outside Glacier National Park

Wage peace through service with conversational English classes for students and professionals in historic Hanoi

United States, Puerto Rico

China * | Cook Islands | Cuba |  Greece (Crete) | Italy (Sicily) | Nepal | Peru | Poland | Portugal | St. Lucia | Tanzania | Vietnam | USA: Aguadilla, Puerto Rico (PR); Blackfeet Reservation (MT);  San Juan (TX)

*China Service Program is currently suspended.

Exceed your Expectations. Be a Catalyst for Change in the World.

“Granddaddy of the volunteer vacation movement.”

“Bud and Michele established Global Volunteers to provide people with an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children around the globe.”

“The work they accomplish meets needs in little-known areas that might not be on the radar of large-scale efforts.”

“Global Volunteers is one of the oldest nonsectarian organizations to offer short-term volunteer vacations.”

“A model that has been replicated worldwide.”

“Global Volunteers has what are regarded as the best programs in the field.”

“Global Volunteers is at the leading edge of the surge in popularity of volunteer vacations.”

“Travel with a conscience and help people on a Global Volunteers journey.”

“In 1979 Michele Gran and Bud Philbrook helped people in a poor mountain village in Guatemala. That lead to Global Volunteers — spiritually fulfilling, intellectually stimulating and incidentally tax-deductible volunteer vacations.”

“Though the volunteers may be vacationers, the aid they bring is real.”

10 Best Volunteer Abroad Organizations:  “A pioneer of volunteer vacations organizations, Global Volunteers was founded in 1984 – that is, long before it was a trend.”

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Learn how you can volunteer worldwide: 800-487-1074..

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A day volunteering at a turtle conservation camp in Costa Rica 🐢​

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This agency allows for an incredible exchange between travelers and hosts where they both get something. In my case, as a traveler, I get unique experiences, new people in my life, personal development, and more.

It is a practical and safe app. In my experience, I have met many solo female volunteers who travel with the app, and most of us think that it is an excellent tool for safe travel.

It was an incredible experience! I think this intermediary between those who want to receive and those who want to travel is perfect for getting to know the local culture. Get to know people, places, and things that you wouldn't know if you were on a tourist trip. Incredible! They are to be congratulated!

South Africa

Worldpackers is the reason I get to really experience new cultures. I get to live in different countries and meet the most amazing people.

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I believe that Worldpackers helps you live experiences wherever you are in the world, accompanies you and guides you. I always recommend it to my traveling friends, and I talk to my family about this app. Very useful.

Worldpackers has helped me a lot since I left home and decided to go backpacking, without this platform I don't know if I would have been able to get this far and have had all the experiences I have had <3

It is a very interesting way to get to know people, places, and have experiences that bring you closer to the realities of the people who live in the places you visit, being able to transform the places and live the experiences with your own body.

The exchange that Worldpackers offers is very good. It's not just a considerable saving on accommodation, but a really cool network, connections, and unforgettable experiences away from home!

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Volunteer Abroad & Virtual Volunteer Programs With Impact

Volunteer abroad: find your global community, united planet unlocks your potential as a global citizen, empowering you to create a more peaceful, cohesive and sustainable world. with partnerships all over the world, united planet fosters cross-cultural understanding and addresses shared challenges to unite the world in a community beyond borders™., 1-12 week volunteer abroad programs in over 20 countries worldwide., 4 – 16 week volunteer abroad programs  in over 10 countries worldwide, gap year and 6 month+ opportunities in over 20 countries worldwide., group volunteer abroad groups of five or more. perfect for universities, high schools, corporate teams, and healthcare offices., intern abroad program 4 – 12 week intern abroad projects, virtual volunteering and virtual internship program 1 – 6 months virtual projects in over 20+ countries, authentic. immersive. transformative..

I developed so many lifelong relationships and I learned more than I thought imaginable when I signed up for this unique volunteer abroad experience. Brittany, United Planet volunteer

Learn more about United Planet Volunteer Abroad Opportunities!

Have questions we’re here for you. we’d love to help..

United Planet is an international non-profit organization with a mission to create a global community, one relationship at a time. We connect people who want to make a difference in communities across the world through overseas volunteer travel programs, global virtual internships & volunteering, and project-based virtual exchange programs. With opportunities in more than 40 countries, you will learn, teach, work, engage and immerse yourself in a culture outside your comfort zone. For many, volunteering abroad is the most fulfilling experience of their lives !

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Asian elephants, north & central america, dominican republic, united states, south america, europe & oceania, western africa, northern africa, eastern africa, middle africa, southern africa, middle east, southern asia, eastern asia, south korea, south east asia, philippines, north america, central america, el salvador, latin america, buenos aires, amazon rainforest, the caribbean, bosnia and herzegovina, russian federation, united kingdom, great barrier reef, french polynesia, new zealand, papua new guinea, trending topics 2024, marine conservation, marine life, teaching english, virtual volunteering, suitable for, high school, over 50s & seniors, mission trips (short-term), low budgets, internships abroad, medical training, veterinary training, biology & environment, business & marketing, environment & conservation, farming & agriculture, round trips & camps, humanitarian aid, childcare & daycare support, medical mission trips, special needs & disabilities, community services, building & construction, community development, culture & arts, human & women's rights, ngo management, wildlife conservation, animal shelter, sloth sanctuary, animal protection, great white sharks, scuba diving, coral reefs, sea turtles, whale sharks, african wildlife, african elephants, volunteer & travel programs.

Volunteer and travel abroad to discover the most amazing places around the world and give something back at the same time ... read more

Volunteer and travel abroad to discover the most amazing places around the world and give something back at the same time. This is the perfect opportunity for volunteers at all stages of life: from college students to those over 50 , there is the perfect volunteering trip for everyone.

If you are looking for some true volunteer travel adventure and you want to explore every destination to the fullest, our wildlife volunteer trips are the right thing for you. Discover lots of different places and volunteer for different projects where you build houses , engage with local communities or help protect endangered animals . Take action and apply for a volunteer trip abroad!

Let's get Sustainable - 6 Weeks on the move

Learn about the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN. Embark yourself on an adventure that will take you to discover all of Iceland and its natural wonders. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="0" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Real South America Encounter

Embark on this stunning trip across Costa Rica, Ecuador & Peru where you are guaranteed to experience all aspects of South American lifestyle and culture. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="1" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Real Asia Encounter

Sri Lanka, India and Nepal! We can’t think of a more sublime combination of exotic and fascinating countries to volunteer in over 6, 9 or 12 weeks. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="2" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Real South East Asia Encounter

If weeks spent volunteering around one of the most colourful parts of the world sounds enticing, then this combo of Vietnam, Cambodia & Bali is ideal. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="3" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Real Africa Encounter

Spend a life-changing 6, 9 or 12 weeks of volunteering across the world’s second-biggest continent in Ghana, fascinating Tanzania & epic South Africa! 🌍 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="4" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sri Lanka Experience

Do something life-changing discovering the real Sri Lanka. Spend four amazing weeks exploring and volunteering in this hugely inspiring country. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="5" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Surf & Help - Marine Wildlife Conservation

We include a FREE 1-week Spanish Course, to allow you to have a greater impact. Surf, preserve nature and protect endangered marine wildlife. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="6" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Learn Spanish, Dance & Culture

Two or four week full cultural immersion based in Old Havana. Spanish classes are supplemented with dance classes, cultural tours, and weekend in Viñales valley. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="7" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Everest Base Camp Trek & Community Support

Combine a 4 week trek to Everest base camp with volunteering in Kathmandu. Suspension bridges, raging rivers and some of the best scenery in the world awaits you. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="8" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Learn Spanish & Support the Locals

What’s happening in Cuba right now? Volunteer placements and activities to connect with Cuban people, understand their culture and history and turbo charge your Spanish. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="9" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Real Taster Encounter

Our top destinations mixed into one trip! Don’t miss your chance to sample and a make difference in sleepy Sri Lanka, inspiring India & beautiful Bali! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="10" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Building an Outdoor Activity Camp

Help to build an outdoor activity camp! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="11" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Himalayan Trekking & Meaningful Adventure in India

Be a responsible tourist: Combine volunteering with adventurous traveling! Take a meaningful volunteer trip in India and support local communities in need. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="12" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

4 Week Annapurna Trek and Community Support

Trek and volunteer! Hike to Annapurna base camp, some of the most incredible scenery in the world! Volunteer after the trek on your chosen project. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="13" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Teenage Summer Camp

Travel around Iceland, meet new friends, learn how to protect the environment, while you enjoy thermal pools, discover glaciers, waterfalls, black beaches and more.. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="14" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Real Nepal Experience

This epic adventure includes 28 days exploring colourful Kathmandu, trekking the Himalayas, bicycle tours in Chitwan and volunteering in Pokhara. Phew! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="15" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Learn Spanish & Local Adventure

One week learning Spanish and exploring Viñales Valley – bursting with tobacco plantations, traditional farming, unique limestone mountains. Horse, bike, hike adventure! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="16" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Learn Spanish, Dance & Adventure Habana & Vinales

Four week full cultural immersion based in Old Havana & Viñales. Spanish classes are supplemented with dance classes, cultural tours and adventure activities. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="17" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sustainable Living & Yoga Retreat Camp

Volunteer at a Permaculture Farm to help incubate an alternative and conscious way of living. Dare to think and act differently. Be part of this adventure and journey. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="18" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Work with Indigenous Mayan Communities

A unique and authentic cultural immersion experience in Guatemala, where volunteers live and work in a local indigenous community. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="19" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Volunteering Trips

Do you love traveling but you would also want to contribute to a larger goal? Are you someone who wants the best of both worlds? Look no further. There is a wide range of volunteer projects around the world offering you just that. Trekking in the Himalayas, snorkeling and diving in crystal clear water or getting close to some of the most exotic creatures are activities you can indulge in while helping the local community.

Discover some of the most astonishing places on the planet while helping families rebuild homes after a disaster, help clean up reefs and beaches, teach English to children, and so much more. Aligning the dreams of travelers with the needs of locals is what voluntourism is all about. Join one of the many programs and explore the world in a responsible way . Are you ready embark on a trip you will never forget?

Why volunteer and travel?

The tourism industry has started to get a bad rap the past couple of years. Mass tourism has led to increased waste issues and diminishing natural resources . Tourist attractions are natural gems that are slowly losing their shine while keeping up with the demands of mass tourism. Tourism is an important source of income for developing countries boasting pristine, Instagram worthy destinations. The ongoing pursuit of increased revenue has come at a price for the environment while issues such as education and healthcare are ignored.

Voluntourism

Our planet has so much to offer and we should be able to enjoy the beauty. Consider traveling in a sustainable way where there’s an exchange between the guests and the hosts . Volunteer travel programs encourage exactly that. Several organizations offer a platform for tourists to travel and explore while they can volunteer and give back to the local community. This can be done in different ways ranging from teaching to helping with the clean up of coral reefs. You can focus on volunteer work with animals, people, the environment or a combination of everything.

Volunteering and its effects

While traveling as a tourist, we are usually shielded from the problems plaguing the local communities as we are preoccupied with the exquisite scenery. By volunteering for a program during your travels, you will get in touch with the community and gain a greater understanding of what is going on behind the scenes and will allow intercultural exchange to unfold. You will learn more about the culture of the country and locals will gain a better insight into your culture.

Tourists visiting developing countries are often shocked when they leave their hotel rooms. They’re gripped by the severity of the problems which are blatantly obvious at first glance. The discomfort and powerlessness they feel when witnessing this, discourage them from engaging with the community as they don’t know how to behave.

Satisfaction of volunteering

There are several organizations focused on voluntourism programs where tourists can enjoy the exquisite scenery but have the opportunity to give back in a meaningful way. The programs offer different ways for travelers to work with the local community and say: “thank you for having me”. A volunteer traveler will return to their country after a trip abroad astounded by the natural wonders but enriched with a feeling of satisfaction . Perhaps also giving them a piece of mind that however little it may be, they did something on their trip to help instead of just looking the other way. Africa, Asia or South America, they are waiting for your help and support.

What will I do when I volunteer and travel?

Volunteer and travel is a concept which is slowly spreading across the globe. Volunteer travel opportunities allow volunteer travelers to discover a certain part of the world and join organizations that will offer initiatives to support the community while guiding them on trips to common attractions as well as those off the beaten track. Options are seemingly endless and every travel hungry volunteer will find an organization that fits their criteria. Let’s take a look at some of the different types of volunteer travel organizations you may find on the site:

Sea and beaches

Volunteers who feel that a trip isn’t complete without sea, sun and sandy beaches can opt for one of the many programs focused on coastal and marine conservation. Head to the Maldives, chill out on the islands in Thailand or witness some of the most impressive sea creatures in South Africa.

Tourism is taking its toll on the beaches through increased amounts of waste which is steadily piling up. Coral reefs are in need of some tender love and care to be able to withstand the invasion of plastic. Get out your snorkeling gear and prepare for some of the following activities:

• Island hopping
• Snorkeling and scuba diving
• Assisting in community development projects focused on
• Environmental conservation
• Sustainable tourism
• Climate change
• Recreating coral reefs
• Spotting whales, dolphins, sea turtles and more

Join a volunteer project in one of the most idyllic locations and work with the community to give them better chances.

Landlocked adventures

Those who don’t like getting sand everywhere can opt for a project offering a more landlocked adventure. If you enjoy hiking and have a good physique, you’ll have no problems keeping up with some of the adventurous programs . Join a travel volunteer program abroad and witness some of the most biodiverse places in the world while encountering different ethnicities.

Trek around the Himalayas while you help restore homes which were destroyed during the earthquake. Immerse yourself in the culture by staying with traditional families in Nepal, India, and Peru. Learn about the culture, the food, and the people while you help in local schools and orphanages. Take in the natural wonders of all these exquisite destinations and grab opportunities to support the communities.

Animal lovers

For animal lovers out there, there are project opportunities focused on elephants, orangutans and marine animals waiting for your help. If you are completely in awe of these curious creatures, opt for a volunteer holiday with animals. Explore your surroundings while contributing to the communities that help conserve endangered species . Offset the unfavorable impact tourism has had on these animals by giving one these volunteer organizations a helping hand. These volunteer projects are a great combo of nature and culture. Get close to the animals and learn more about both the environment and the people.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded experience, a volunteer and travel program is an excellent bet . Marvel at your surroundings while being aware of the difficulties the communities are facing. Enjoy the activities knowing that by taking part you are supporting locals. Give back by dedicating some of your time and effort to help the community. Take a closer look at the exciting projects that will offer you an incredible yet sustainable experience.

What language skills are required?

English is the main language on all projects so it’s important that volunteers have a good understanding of English . This is important to work and communicate with the staff at the project center and other volunteers. For projects in South America, it would be great if you gain a basic knowledge of Spanish prior to going. Knowing some Spanish words will benefit your volunteer and travel experience.

Best places to volunteer and travel

Opportunities are at your feet. Both developing countries and developed countries are acknowledging the benefits of sustainable tourism. Therefore, there are projects around the world offering astonishing destinations in combination with opportunities to help the local community. Join one of these projects during your travels or gap year and work with those less privileged.

Peru is a touristic hotspot on all traveler’s bucket list. Combine visiting one of the seven world wonders with a hike along the Inca trail and supporting children of the local community. Work for one of the many programs during your stay and learn more about the community.

Dreaming of a safari but want to do it in a sustainable way? Join one of the programs offering a unique combo of adventure in Africa and reality. Shine some light on the communities in Africa by spending time with them during your trip and helping out where it is needed most. Plenty of opportunities to help Africa bij joining a program. Your work will not go unnoticed.

Asia remains a safe and easily accessible part of the world to travel to. Go for an out of the box experience by choosing a project that will show you unique wonders untouched by mass tourism. Connect with the community and understand the culture while helping out. Nepal, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and Malaysia are waiting for help. Take a look at the different options ranging from mountain treks to pristine beaches to lush jungles and prepare yourself for a life-changing experience.

There are plenty of volunteering projects available that will make sure you have explored the region to the full. These programs will ensure you get the best of both worlds. Volunteer and travel abroad and experience the satisfaction of contribution in combination with the excitement and exhilaration of travel.

Top 5 benefits of Volunteer and Travel

It’s hard to name drawbacks when talking about volunteering and traveling abroad. It’s almost always associated with feelings of positivity. Both allow people to get out of their usual environment and open up to new experiences. Volunteer and travel and you will be helping the communities of your travel destination. Let’s take a look at some other benefits volunteering and traveling may have in store for you:

1. Valuable Learning Opportunities

Choosing to volunteer and travel will open up a new world. You will learn about the country and culture and interact with the local community. This will ensure a deeper understanding of the people and their situation. Depending on your volunteer activities, you will gain valuable experience in teaching and other activities. Learn some new skills and witness the opportunities that will unfold. Whether it's for valuable work experience or a way to spend your gap year. Meaningful travel opportunities await you.

2. Meet new people

You will meet other volunteers and travelers who share your taste in activities and interests. You’ll be connecting with like-minded fellow volunteers and of course locals. This will be a wonderful opportunity for meaningful relationships and cultural interchange.

3. New Experiences

Volunteering is a brilliant way to expand your perspective of the world. Issues that seemed huge problems before, may seem trivial after your volunteer experience. New life experiences make you stronger and will empower you for the future.

4. Health Improvements

Traveling and volunteering are two ingredients that practically guarantee happiness. Traveling has proven beneficial as it puts people in a completely different environment allowing different parts of the brain to be used. Nature, which is usually a big part of going on a trip, is a wonderful healer for those under a lot of pressure and suffering from stress. On top of that, volunteering gives you a sense a purpose which is a major happiness influencer. Happy people tend to be healthy people. Volunteer and travel and notice the effects it has on you!

This is your chance to explore the world and discover some of the most interesting places the world has to offer. You’ll be doing this while contributing to a meaningful cause. What are you waiting for? Get out your luggage and start packing!

How do I get started with Volunteer and Travel?

Are you convinced volunteering and traveling is the best of both worlds? You’re absolutely right! Once you’ve picked a few programs which tick your boxes, let’s take a look at the first 3 steps which will send you on your way to volunteer and travel:

• Check whether there’s a match between you and the project. There may be some requirements you need to fulfill.
• Take a look at the location of the project and decide whether it is a location you are excited about.
• Get in touch with the organization and see whether your expectations and your schedule match up.

Once this is sorted. Let’s take a look at the practical steps:

Insurance (Health & travel)

We recommend getting both health and travel insurance. In fact, this is a requirement for many programs abroad. Get in touch with your program contact person to find out if an insurance plan is already in place for volunteers.

Visa, Passport and Documentation

Once you know your destination, take the following 3 steps before setting off on your life-changing adventure!

• Look into the visa requirements for the country you will volunteer in.
• Make sure you have a valid passport considering the requirement of the host country.
• Make sure you prepare the correct documents to fulfill the visa application.

That’s it! Visa issues may be tricky in some countries so definitely take that into account when applying for a travel volunteer project. Start packing for your adventure abroad and prepare for a meaningful adventure in some of the most astonishing areas you’ll ever encounter .

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Top programs.

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

Established in 2007, IVHQ is the world's leading volunteer abroad organization offering projects in over 40 international destinations. Whether you are traveling for one week or even taking a gap year, or simply wishing to assist a community abroad, IVHQ has the program for you.

GoEco is a leading ecotourism company with a varied selection of affordable volunteer projects abroad - a gateway to over 150 extraordinary community, wildlife and environmental initiatives all over the world.

Maximo Nivel

Maximo Nivel provides high quality volunteer, intern, study, and teach abroad programs in Latin America. Since 2003, they have offered volunteer programs to travelers in medical and healthcare, teaching, childcare, and much more. Programs are located in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru!

Projects Abroad

Tired of the ordinary? Craving an adventure that transforms you and the world? Projects Abroad is your passport to life-changing experiences. They are the world's leading provider of volunteer and internship programs, empowering over 135,000 individuals to make a real difference for over 30 years. > Impact-driven adventures: Dive into meaningful projects tackling critical challenges, from wildlife conservation to community development. > Hassle-free experience: Focus on making memories, not logistics. We handle everything from transport in destination to accommodation and meals. > Unlock your potential: Develop new skills, meet passionate people, and become a global citizen with our gold-standard support.

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Destinations.

Select your preferred destination on the map to learn all about it!

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• 17 Dec 2019

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• 26 Mar 2019

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• 25 Feb 2019

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• 16 Mar 2018

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• 27 Jan 2018

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• 22 Jan 2018

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• 25 Jul 2017

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• 15 Jul 2017

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• 18 Jun 2017

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• 11 Jun 2017

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• 22 May 2017

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• 14 May 2017

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• By Jordyn Hotchkiss

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• 19 Jul 2016

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• 19 Aug 2014

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• 20 Apr 2013

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• 22 Oct 2012

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• 17 Oct 2012

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• 28 Jun 2011

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• 23 Jan 2024

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• 29 Nov 2023

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• 12 Sep 2023

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• 19 Mar 2019

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• 20 Feb 2019

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• 28 Nov 2018

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• 22 May 2018

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• 22 Feb 2018

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• 13 Nov 2016

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• 27 Oct 2016

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• 26 Sep 2016

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• By James Speyer
• 14 Dec 2015

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• 16 Mar 2015

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• 16 Jan 2015

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• 22 Oct 2014

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• 25 Aug 2014

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• 28 May 2014

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• 18 Feb 2013

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• 23 Sep 2023

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• 10 Dec 2023

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• 27 Nov 2023

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• 29 Mar 2018

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• 29 Jan 2018

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• 27 Aug 2017

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• 27 Sep 2016

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• 13 Sep 2016

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• 14 Apr 2015

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• 20 Aug 2017

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• 22 Jul 2017

Volunteer Forever 2023-2034 Travel Scholarships

Since 2014, Volunteer Forever has been offering travel scholarships to help participants defray the cost of volunteering, studying, interning, teaching, or working abroad. Each quarter, we award a $500 to $1,000 scholarship to two travelers.

Next deadline: 01 January

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LIFE-CHANGING INTERCULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Truly rewarding volunteer and internship opportunities in developing countries around the world!

Australasia

Central america, middle east, north america, south america, the caribbean.

"Great projects. Awesome service. Lowest fees. Love Volunteers is the REAL deal!" 

Featured Destinations

Volunteer Projects in Africa

From USD 339

Volunteer Projects in Asia

From USD 249

The West Bank

Volunteer Projects in Middle East

From USD 279

Volunteer Projects in Europe

From USD 1469

From USD 609

Volunteer Projects in North America

From USD 629

From USD 329

Volunteer Projects in Central America

From USD 649

Volunteer Projects in South America

From USD 479

From USD 299

From USD 309

From USD 719

New Zealand

Volunteer Projects in Australasia

From USD 469

From USD 1459

From USD 399

From USD 369

From USD 449

From USD 259

From USD 619

From USD 229

From USD 3309

From USD 569

From USD 1539

From USD 319

South Africa

From USD 379

From USD 549

Featured Programs

Childcare & development.

Albania, Cerrik

From USD 459

Teaching in Monasteries

Nepal, Pokhara

Animal Rescue

Argentina, Buenos Aires

Community Development

Moldova, Causeni

From USD 519

Medical Internship

Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls

Morocco, Rabat

Ecuador, Quito

From USD 499

Costa Rica, Playa Pita, Puntarenas

Wildlife Conservation

Costa Rica, Alajuela Province

Early Childhood Education

Tanzania, Arusha

Great Barrier Reef Conservation

Australia, Cairns, Queensland

From USD 2519

Drug Rehabilitation

Kenya, Diani Beach

Kenya, Mombasa & Diani Beach

Education Support

Zambia, Mwandi Village

From USD 308

Amazon Animal Conservation

Ecuador, Pastaza Province

From USD 779

Uganda, Kampala

Kenya, Nairobi

Disabilities & Special Needs

Sri Lanka, Badulla

From USD 429

From USD 839

India, Delhi

From USD 769

Women's Empowerment

Colombia, Cartagena

Teaching English

Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City

Golden Triangle Experience

From USD 989

USA, San Diego

Rwanda, Rwamagana

Journalism Internship

From USD 1259

From USD 729

Sports Development

Ghana, Senya Beraku

Midwifery Internship

From USD 1479

From USD 439

Cambodia, Phnom Penh

From USD 689

Nepal, Kathmandu Valley

Environmental Conservation

New Zealand, Wellington

From USD 699

Street Children Support

USA, New Orleans

Turkey, Istanbul

Laos, Luang Prabang

South Africa, Philippi Farming Area

Elephant Conservation

Thailand, Chiang Mai

Guatemala, Antigua and surrounding areas (The Mayan Highlands!)

Educational Support

Public health.

From USD 859

Turtle Conservation

Costa Rica, Playa Matapalo, Puntarenas Province

From USD 899

Peru, Cusco

Cloud Forest Environmental Protection

Ecuador, Pichincha Province

School Renovation

Nepal, Kathmandu

Wolf Conservation

Portugal, Mafra

From USD 1609

Agriculture & Farming

Turkey, Ankara

The West Bank, Nablus

From USD 359

Volunteer & Travel

From USD 1039

Refugee Student Support

Marine conservation.

Spain, Barcelona

From USD 389

Ghana, Ankamu

Social Welfare

South Africa, Cape Town

Teaching Buddhist Monks

From USD 669

Croatia, Split

Law & Human Rights Internship

From USD 849

Mud House Construction

Volunteer & trek experience.

Nepal, Various

From USD 2199

The Kenyan Explorer

From USD 2259

Costa Rica, San Ramon de Alajuela

From USD 1409

Volunteer & Travel Experience

From USD 1189

Animal Therapy

Bosnia, Brcko

Bali, Tabanan Region

Mexico, Oaxaca

Childcare & Development (Pre-school)

Community education and nutrition.

Honduras, El Porvenir

Sports Education & Learn to Surf

Kenya, Mombasa

Wildlife Rescue and Farmlife

Australia, New South Wales

Costa Rica, Playa Jaco

India, Bhatola, Haryana

Childcare and Development

USA, Puerto Rico

From USD 749

South Africa, Port Elizabeth

From USD 759

From USD 909

Costa Rica, Sarapiquí Rainforest, Heredia

Teaching English (Pre-School)

Portugal, Lisbon

Animal Welfare

From USD 869

Childhood Nutrition

Sri Lanka, Wattala

HIV/AIDS Support

From USD 599

See what other people think of Love Volunteers and our projects worldwide. We provide an unforgettable experience.

Vegard (NORWAY → Albania)

I really loved it, and I got a different experience than if I was just a tourist!

Amanda (UNITED STATES → Ghana)

In return for teaching the kids English, math, and creative arts they taught me how to do flips on the trampoline, how to dance the Azonto and how...

Selina (UNITED STATES → Thailand)

From teaching to my adventures with the other volunteers during my free time, I have made so many good memories that I will keep with me forever.

Caitlin (UNITED KINGDOM → Ghana)

I got so much more out of two weeks in Ghana than I could have got out of a practical work placement here in the UK, and the exposure really...

Aleena (PAKISTAN → South Africa)

Everything is very organized and managed and the patients are taken care off beautifully. I would surely volunteer again.

Marco (ITALY → Sri Lanka)

I would totally recommend volunteering abroad and Sri Lanka specifically to anyone. Awesome experience!

Carina (UNITED KINGDOM → Albania)

Albania is a country with many stray animals and this made volunteering at the rescue center in Tirana so much more meaningful and worthwhile

Anna (UNITED KINGDOM → South Africa)

I had the opportunity to take food to people living in townships, which was so incredibly rewarding.

Elisa (ITALY → Zimbabwe)

The program is great, but people working there really make the difference. They love what they do and it's impossible not to do the same!

Kelly (CANADA → Rwanda)

Our experience with Love Volunteers and their local team in Rwanda was awesome!

Ali (IRAN → Nepal)

Contrary to my belief, I wasn't only teaching students language, speaking, respect and community. They were teaching me also.

Taran (UNITED STATES → Bosnia)

As a Love Volunteer I was always cared for and provided with everything I needed. A wonderful experience!

Samantha (UNITED STATES → Zimbabwe)

I highly, highly recommend coming to Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls and working with Love Volunteers!

(UNITED STATES → Tanzania)

I could not recommend this experience enough. I will never forget my time in Tanzania, and I know I will be back.

Carina (PORTUGAL → Nepal)

You will get the experience of a lifetime and you would really understand what a smile means for real!

Olivia (UNITED STATES → Sri Lanka)

Remember to always keep an open-mind set, and don't forget to appreciate this extraordinary experience!

Janet (CANADA → South Africa)

Working with this org was a pleasure. My decision to go overseas to volunteer was made very last minute but I was still thoroughly accommodated.

Lynne (AUSTRALIA → India)

Anyone thinking of volunteering do it. In Australia we have a saying. 'It takes a village to raise a child' Well as a volunteer you are part of the...

Leona (UNITED KINGDOM → Brazil)

Love Volunteers and their local team in Rio were fantastic at making arrangements so quickly and getting in contact with me! I would recommend that...

Matt (UNITED STATES → Costa Rica)

We often joked that we saw just as much wildlife at the project site than we did in the National Parks, and there’s some honest truth to it. If...

Jessica (ZIMBABWE → South Africa)

It has truly amazed me how much you can contribute to helping a community if you only have the initiative to start.

Eduardo (ARGENTINA → Bosnia)

I thank the coordinators, who where always helpful and attentive. Thanks for having me welcomed to this warm-hearted place.

Eva (SPAIN → Cambodia)

Thank you to the NGO of Love Volunteers for giving me this opportunity, I know this is the beginning of an entire life of volunteering.

Ashley (UNITED STATES → Vietnam)

The children were incredible and even though we couldn't communicate through language they quickly became familiar with me.

Louisa (GERMANY → Honduras)

it is a lovely, chilled and thankful community, wonderful kids and a great possibility to live another life than we are used to it.

Dianne (CANADA → Albania)

The kindness of the staff and the Albanian people in general was overwhelming and made me feel very valued.

Settbon (FRANCE → Moldova)

This was a great experience to have as a family and we would recommend it to anyone!

Hannah (UNITED STATES → South Africa)

The childcare center conditions surpassed my expectations of what an education center here in South Africa would look like

Leah (CANADA → Uganda)

Working in the emergency clinic has reaffirmed my desire to be an Emergency and Trauma Physician. Thank you Love Volunteers for making this possible!

Lucy (UNITED STATES → Tanzania)

Love Volunteers created a safe, educational, and fun way for me to explore a new country while also helping those in need.

Surabhi (UNITED STATES → The West Bank)

I would recommend that all people thinking of volunteering consider Palestine. A special mention to Love Volunteers for being available and...

Oliver (UNITED KINGDOM → Kenya)

Karen at LV has been amazing, checking in on me regularly and showing a genuine interest in what I’ve been doing and I’ve been very impressed...

Marilyn (UNITED STATES → Ecuador)

Living and volunteering in Quito was an enlightening and invigorating privilege.

Cindi (CANADA → Ecuador)

I felt safe and appreciated in both Quito and the Galapagos and would recommend the country, organization and program to anyone. Thank you LV!

Melissa (AUSTRALIA → Ghana)

My time spent in Ghana was such an indescribable experience. I absolutely feel in love with Ghana, it’s culture and it’s people!

Abigail (UNITED STATES → Cambodia)

The Love Volunteers staff also helped me immensely and have a fantastic support system with a lot of people who really care about your experience.

See Who’s Talking About Us

• Volunteer Abroad

What Skills Do You Gain From Volunteering?

Growing up as an “army brat,” Sydney could not help but develop a thirst for travelin...

• Travel Inspiration
• After Your Life Abroad
• button]:border-none [&>button]:bg-white [&>button]:hover:cursor-pointer [&>button]:hover:text-cyan-400"> button]:hover:text-cyan-400 [&>button]:bg-white hover:cursor-pointer" height="1em" width="1em" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">

As you’re browsing volunteer programs abroad , you may be wondering: What skills do you gain from volunteering? The good news is—more than you think!

Whether you rehabilitate animals in South Africa , teach kiddos English in the Czech Republic , build community centers in Argentina , or plant trees in Indonesia , you have the potential to earn many valuable skills from almost any volunteer program abroad. Plus, you’ll have a fun and meaningful adventure while earning those skills!

Not to mention that volunteering abroad, with its cultural differences, diverse peoples, unmatched locations, and unique tasks, will ask many different things from you . Those experiences, while sometimes challenging, will help you learn a variety of hard and soft skills, which can be transferable too.

As a pro tip, journal your experiences abroad and hold onto any creations for your portfolio, as that information can be helpful for job or grad school applications !

14 skills you can learn from volunteering

Wherever your volunteering journey takes you, you’re sure to pick up a wide range of skills.

So, what are the skills you gain from volunteering? Needless to say, you’ll gain a plethora of hard and soft skills from volunteering!

Hard skills are technical abilities earned from education or experience while soft skills are character traits earned from relationships and social interactions. And, these lists are just the beginning!

Hard skills gained through volunteering

1. language skills.

Sí, oui, ja —yes siree, language skills are one of the best hard skills gained through volunteering abroad. From navigating new locations to collaborating with locals on projects, you’ll grow your vocabulary and pick up many local phrases . Many volunteer programs build language classes into the program, and you may even live with a host family , so you can get plenty of practice!

2. Computer skills

Many volunteer positions will need participants to use computers in some type of capacity, allowing you to sharpen your technical expertise. Some tasks may include entering data for research, creating designs with Adobe products, or managing spreadsheets. You may also need to use other online tools for communication and collaboration.

3. Trade skills

You can gain trade skills from highly specialized, hands-on work from volunteering, depending on the program. If you’re volunteering to help build homes, for example, you’ll likely pick up skills in carpentry, and maybe even plumbing, electrical, and landscaping skills. Make no mistake—if you’re volunteering in hospitals , clinics, or dentistry offices, you’re picking up valuable medical skills too.

4. Project management skills

You’re more than likely going to be responsible to help out with a number of projects. As a volunteer teacher , journalist , builder , etc., you’ll develop many project management skills as you’ll often need to overcome many challenges with resources. Project management involves a culmination of a variety of skills, such as gathering and reviewing requirements, delegating tasks, organizing data, meeting deadlines, and more.

5. Design skills

Some volunteer positions will need participants to craft presentations, printed signs, or digital advertisements to help fundraise for a cause or educate others about health issues . Developing a design is both an art and a science—you’ll need to combine text and imagery in a way that’s understandable. You may even be improving your photography skills and design program software skills too!

6. Written communication skills

The ability to communicate effectively in writing will serve you well in any career.

Good written communication skills are about more than just improving grammar and spelling—it’s also about weaving together a message catered for a certain audience.

For example, you may need to write copy for a website, pen a play to help teach children valuable life lessons, or draft a grant proposal to request funding. And if you’re bilingual, you may be able to help translate text . Plus, you’re writing for another culture, which is another challenge!

7. Analytical skills

Analytical skills come in many shapes and sizes. In many fields as a volunteer, anywhere from conservation to medical research for example, they may request you to help comb through incoming data from a variety of systems and help with interpreting metrics and diagnosing problems. They may also need you to help report and present that data in an easy-to-digest manner for consumers, executives, businesses, and other audiences.

Soft skills gained through volunteering

1. leadership skills.

Leadership, like most soft skills, is something you gain from experience. As a volunteer abroad, you could be leading a diverse group of people with different backgrounds and personalities to complete a project.

While you may not have the official title of a leader, you can always step up to take on more responsibilities and help resolve any internal or external conflicts to keep the team strong and motivated toward achieving a goal.

2. Problem-solving skills and adaptability

Whether you’re in a tropical jungle or an icy tundra, you may find yourself needing to adapt to challenging environments and tricky tasks while volunteering abroad. Many situations will call for you to rise to the occasion in unexpected ways. You may not always have all the tools you need at hand to achieve a task or others may not agree with how you want to solve a problem, so you’ll need to work with your team to be inventive and resourceful.

3. Cross-cultural competence skills

Every country has its own array of cultural values—even if that culture speaks the same language as you. They could be more rigid or laid-back about time, resources, bureaucratic processes, etc.

You’ll need to learn to appreciate those cultural differences and navigate their boundaries with care and empathy. The cross-cultural competence skills gained through volunteering will help you become a stronger person both personally and professionally.

4. Time management skills

Trust us, your future employer will LOVE to see your time management skills in action.

Learning to complete tasks by certain deadlines is no easy feat, and it’s always one of the top soft skills that employers look for. With time management, you’ll need to plan, organize, and prioritize what tasks you complete by a certain time or possibly before certain resources run out. You may need to learn how to recognize other people’s strengths so you can delegate accordingly and ensure efficient time management.

5. Communication and relationship-building skills

As a volunteer abroad, you’re going to communicate with lots of people from around the world—both in person and digitally. You may even need to learn to communicate through translators and interpreters.

Being able to communicate your message in a way that others understand is a critical skill that you can gain from being abroad. After all, strong communication helps strengthen relationships and collaboration to overcome issues and achieve goals.

6. Teamwork and conflict resolution skills

These are both valuable skills you gain from volunteering! Your volunteer group will likely be an international mix, and you’ll need to work together with the locals in the area to achieve goals. Not everybody will always see eye to eye on how to resolve problems. You’ll need to learn to listen to new perspectives, compromise, and negotiate to pave new ways forward.

7. Public speaking skills

Did you know that the fear of public speaking is the top phobia in the world ? From teaching a community class to presenting about public health to leading a research group, you can gain public speaking skills in many ways while volunteering abroad.

Learning how to connect with your audience, especially members of a different culture, will help you develop stronger communication skills and help influence more positive changes.

Compare volunteer programs side-by-side with MyGoAbroad

5 transferable skills you learn from volunteering.

Almost all of the skills you learn from volunteering can apply to almost any other job (and many other life situations) no matter the field or industry. Many employers look for the following skills below as well as the ones above. You can proudly mention that you’ve earned these skills from your experience abroad on your resume and in interviews!

1. Interpersonal skills

Volunteering builds interpersonal skills you can use on the job and beyond.

This is one of the top transferable skills you learn from volunteering. As a volunteer abroad, you’ll need to demonstrate patience, flexibility, and active listening with your team to accomplish tasks.

You’ll shape stronger interpersonal skills from the interactions you have with people who have different cultural values and speak a different language from you. Learning to work well with others, and collaboratively? Those skills will for sure come in handy in any field!

2. Written and verbal communication skills

As you can imagine, you’ll need to learn to convey messages in a way that resonates with others in written and verbal form. From rugrats to retirees, your audience could be of different ages, languages, and cultures too! You may even become a master of nonverbal communication. In the workplace, you’ll likely need to write emails to different audiences and create and present reports to superiors.

3. Confidence

Never underestimate the power of confidence. Traveling to a new country, meeting people of a different culture, and accomplishing new tasks in challenging situations? Yeah, that all means getting out of your comfort zone !

When you learn to believe in yourself and move past any doubts and fears, you can apply that confidence to almost any workplace by leading projects and asking for what you need from co-workers/vendors/stakeholders.

4. Creative problem-solving skills

What skills do you gain from volunteering? Ones that will help you land your dream job!

You may need to help find solutions in challenging situations while abroad. Maybe you need to find ways to teach without technology, feed lots of families with limited ingredients, or coax stray animals to come to you for care. In the workforce, you’ll need to use those creative problem-solving skills in a variety of ways, from completing projects in a short-staffed department to finding technical workarounds.

5. Resource optimization skills

Learning how to do a lot with a little? Whether it’s optimizing funds, staff, materials, or time, almost any employer looks for someone who knows how to accomplish large tasks with little resources, which is often the name of the game with volunteer positions! So, be sure to detail how you know to optimize use of resources on your resume .

Get matched with 5 volunteer programs abroad right now

There’s no debate—you can gain skills through volunteering that will make you a more well-rounded professional.

Now you know the answer to what skills do you gain from volunteering! You’ll earn many of these skills—and many more!—fair and square from volunteering, so don’t be shy to flaunt them .

You’ll discover new talents, interests, and passions too. You’ll grow in ways you never thought possible. And, did we mention that you’re going to have the time of your life making a difference ? Ready, set, volunteer abroad!

Explore ALL Volunteer Programs on GoAbroad.com!

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Firebird Travel

RUSSIA TRAVEL HOME

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RUSSIA TRAVEL PACKAGES A selection of Russian tours to take as they are or adjust to your needs.

THE GOLDEN RING Visit the heart of ancient Russia. What is the Golden Ring?

MOSCOW TOURS What you can see in Moscow.

MOSCOW DAY TRIPS Get out of Moscow and take a relaxing trip to some of these places

ST. PETERSBURG Some of the sights to see in Petersburg

LAKE BAIKAL TOURS Hiking and trekking around the world's deepest lake in the heart of Siberia

RUSSIAN DIGS Come and work in the field on a Russian Archaeological dig. Full training given on site.

TRAVEL TIPS & SERVICES Getting around in Russia

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Volunteers help travelers in serious situations at Tampa International Airport

TAMPA, Fla. — The Tampa International Airport is highly ranked, with a solid reputation among travelers. Some of that is thanks to the hundreds of volunteers who help the airport run.

What You Need To Know

 tampa interational airport currently has 454 volunteers   volunteers are split between uso center, welcome ambassadors and travelers aid   want to get involved volunteer with tpa  or travelers aid.

According to the airport’s Manager of Communications, Beau Zimmer, the airport has 454 volunteers as of mid-April. Those volunteers spend their time as a welcome ambassador, at the airport’s USO Center assisting military members, or in Travelers Aid.

Travelers Aid, which is currently run by the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, has a long history both at Tampa International and a network of airports across the country. Travelers Aid is one of the nation’s oldest social welfare movements that dates back to the mid 1800s and was formed to provide protection for women who traveled alone, usually in train stations.

Today it’s morphed into a network of volunteers who are ready to help in any situation, from easy fixes to crisis.

Ellen McCormick decided to begin volunteering with Travelers Aid roughly eight years ago after she retired from her job as a scientist with a pharmaceutical company. She says she missed the routine working provided and wanted to do something impactful with her time, beyond what typical hobbies could offer.

“I think it’s the diversity of what we do here that really draws me in,” she says.

On a typical day, Ellen does everything from answering traveler’s questions, provide emergency supplies like diapers or band-aids, or help problem solve and get solutions for stranded travelers. Other days, the situations are far more serious.

Ellen says she’s worked with travelers who were scammed while buying a plane ticket or arrive at the airport with no resources.

“Sometimes there’s no money, there’s no phone, there’s no friends, so they’re really in a pickle,” she explained.

Through the partnership with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, the Travelers Aid volunteers then call a shelter, find them a place to go, and give the person a bus pass and toiletries.

“It’s really sad. But sometimes it happens and at least there’s someone here to help,” Ellen said.

Travelers Aid is staffed by volunteers from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 7 days a week. Roughly 50 volunteers rotate to keep the location fully staffed. 

Ellen says the loves the community the airport has become for her and recommends that other new retirees consider volunteering for a cause they are passionate about.

“I think if anything I’ve learned is at the core of us, we all want the same thing. We’re all very much the same and every once in a while, we need a helping hand,” she said.

Moscow Metro – Part 2

Have you been to Moscow ? In all seriousness, they have the prettiest metro stations I have ever seen and I still can’t believe how immaculate and lovely every station was. There are several different stations pictured below and this is the second of several posts where I will show you the beauty of the Moscow Metro. Did you see part 1 ?  There really isn’t much to say because I think the pictures speak for themselves. I have so many more pictures to share with you!

Have you ever been to Moscow? Is it someplace you have thought about visiting?

She speaks fluent English, French and Spanish, and works for a major airline. And guess what? She’s also a licensed elementary teacher and has an MBA.

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This is the train STATION?? Oh my god… So gorgeous. Moscow has never even crossed my mind as a possible travel destination but this is gorgeous…Hmmm… LOL

I know, right? We spent several hours in the metro, just marveling at the beauty of each one. Thanks for stopping by!

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THE 10 BEST Resorts near Electrostal History and Art Museum, Elektrostal

Resorts near electrostal history and art museum, property types, distance from, traveller rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveller ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveller Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveller reviews.
• Distance from Electrostal History and Art Museum See properties located closest to the place of interest first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners.