volunteer trips for 16 year olds

• Project Search Tool
• My Wishlist
• Where can I go?
• What can I do?
• How much does it cost?
• Read our FAQs

Teen Volunteer Abroad Programs

Are you looking for teen volunteer opportunities for 2024 or 2025 that provide a rewarding experience for high school students to be immersed in new cultures while giving back to communities around the world? Whether you’re looking for volunteer opportunities for high school students , mission trips for teens , service learning programs or teen summer service trips , International Volunteer HQ is the world’s most trusted provider of international teen volunteer programs.

With more than 16 years experience in delivering impactful teen volunteer programs abroad, IVHQ enables teen volunteers to give back on meaningful community development and conservation projects in destinations like Bali , Costa Rica , Croatia , Guatemala , Peru , Portugal , Romania , Sri Lanka , Tanzania , Vietnam , Zanzibar and more. The best part? These teen volunteer programs start from as little as US$20 per day, including accommodation and meals!

Here are some of the best volunteer abroad programs for teens in 2024 & 2025:

• Turtle Conservation in Bali
• Animal Care in Costa Rica
• Childcare in Tanzania
• Environmental Scuba Diving

Volunteering abroad as a teenager is a rewarding experience that will stay with you for life and every year thousands of teens choose to volunteer abroad with IVHQ - the trusted provider of safe and affordable volunteer programs for teens . Service trips for teens are available in more than 40 countries and there are 17 teen volunteer programs which offer independent volunteering opportunities for 16 and 17 year-olds. Or, if you’re wanting to travel and volunteer with a group of students from your high school , IVHQ can customize an itinerary for your group too!

Teen volunteering abroad

Here’s what you’ll learn from this article:, where can under 18s volunteer abroad.

• What are the benefits of joining a teen volunteer program?

Key information for parents of teen volunteers

• Teen volunteer abroad review
• What are the best teen volunteer opportunities?
• Volunteering for teens - expert tips

Volunteers between the ages of 16 to 18 years-old can travel and volunteer independently on select IVHQ programs with parental/guardian consent.

Volunteers under the age of 18 can participate on the following programs independently:

• Philippines

Teen volunteers under the age of 18 will be required to provide IVHQ with parental consent and two character reference letters in order to participate, and may be asked to provide further documentation to the local team depending on their chosen project.

If you are volunteering abroad under 16 years of age, you can volunteer with a parent, guardian, or relative who is 18 years or older. Volunteering abroad as a family can be an awesome experience that brings you closer and gives your family holidays a greater sense of purpose. This means you can roll up your sleeves and get stuck in on the same meaningful project and when you have downtime you can head out together and explore all your destination has to offer.

What are the benefits of joining a teen volunteer program overseas?

There is no doubt that volunteering as a teenager is a meaningful way to extend to your education and add credentials that will stand out on your college application and resume. After all, nothing teaches you more than traveling and accumulating real world experiences. Our local team will ensure you are matched to a placement which will allow you to make a valuable contribution to the project and community you are volunteering in. Crossing boundaries to work side-by-side with people from different parts of the world fosters global understanding and is something every volunteer on an IVHQ program takes away from their time abroad. Not only that but living in a country different to your own means that you will be immersed in a new culture, cuisine, and way of thinking. Going on a teen service trip will shape you and how you work as a team, manage time and communicate with others.

Already having experience living away from home is an added bonus when it comes time head off to college, suddenly freshman year doesn’t seem quite so daunting when you’ve traveled all the way to Bali and back again. Actually, you’ll find that you feel that way about most situations you face when you return home.

Chances are your parents will also want to learn more about IVHQ, whether or not they will be traveling with you, so this resource for parents will come in handy as you continue explore our teen volunteer opportunities. No doubt you have already fielded questions around your safety while abroad. You aren’t alone - having placed more than 136,000 volunteers abroad, we’re always happy to speak with parents to ensure all their questions are answered and they feel comfortable with your volunteer trip plans. Through our online safety training, comprehensive information booklets, ongoing support from experienced Program Managers, and round-the-clock support from our local teams - IVHQ volunteers are well supported to make the most of their time abroad.

Teen volunteer abroad review:

By: IVHQ teen volunteer Grace Dalton from the USA

Going into the IVHQ program, I didn’t really know what to expect at all. It wasn’t until I arrived with my sister and mom at the school where we would be teaching music for the next six weeks that the whole thing truly hit me. Volunteering in Kenya as a teenager completely changed my perspective on the world.

We come from Virginia, United States of America, and to see, teach, and even live with all these children who are so full of smiles and laughter but have a life completely different to mine was both eye-opening and heartening to witness.

Volunteering was a really humbling experience. I consider traveling a huge part of my life, thanks to my mom who has given my sister and I the great opportunity to see the world at a young age. In my experience, volunteering is the best way to travel. You get to live in a completely new corner of the Earth but help other people in the process. I encourage anyone, if the funds and time are available to you, then go and experience this.

It’s definitely hard work, and it can be tiring. Working with children can be difficult, especially as a teenager, because sometime kids will try to question your authority. On the flip side, they also see you as a friend because you’re closer in age. But one thing you can know without a doubt is that working with children pays off. Seeing the kids enjoy themselves, singing all together and laughing, makes it all worth it. Knowing that you’ve made an impact in their life, no matter how small, drives me as a volunteer. I’m sure it’s true for all the projects. Hard work pays off, every time.

Best teen volunteer opportunities abroad:

To give you an idea of the teen volunteer programs available, we’ve listed seven recommended programs perfect for our teen travelers below…

Teen volunteering in Costa Rica

“Costa Rica is one of the most popular volunteer destinations among our North American travelers . It has an impressive selection of volunteer opportunities and it also provides a very large foundation of energetic and efficient local support, plus a very welcoming network of volunteers in country. With a vast range of wonderful host families, you can be sure that your first volunteer experience or even travel experience is a safe, reliable and enjoyable one. Take advantage of the fantastic Spanish school, Salsa lessons or explore the surrounding rain forests, cloud forests, marine areas, and unique black and grey sand beaches. With a wide range of project options, including Eco Agriculture Conservation, Construction and Renovation and Childcare, this program not only has the potential to spark a passion for exploring new cultures and traveling, but also add some great experience to your CV and start you on your way to a successful career.” - IVHQ Costa Rica Program Manager

Teen volunteering in Portugal

“Portugal is an awesome country for teens to volunteer abroad in. And, if you’re a first-time traveler the it doesn’t get any better than Lisbon, Portugal. While volunteering in Portugal you can contribute to 5 volunteer projects including a ​conservation-focused Environmental Scuba Diving project​, Food Rescue or Youth Support. The program is based in Lisbon, the capital and largest city in Portugal, making it a great travel hub for heading to other parts of the country on your free weekends.” - IVHQ Portugal Program Manager

Teen volunteering in Bali

“If you are looking for the ideal destination for your first trip abroad, then Bali should definitely be at the top of your list! Whether you’re wanting to meet like-minded international volunteers, explore a captivating culture, relax at the beach, or try to get a bargain at the local market, Bali is the location for you! Our teen volunteers in Bali can enjoy convenient travel around Bali in the weekends, cheap tourist activities and some awesome local cuisine. And during your week, you can will be supporting volunteer projects such as Turtle Conservation, Construction and Renovation, or Childcare. The IVHQ Bali program offers volunteers a unique insight into the Balinese culture right from day one of the orientation, so you’ll feel right at home and fully prepared for your upcoming volunteering work. If you are after a culturally-rich, exciting and worthwhile volunteer experience, you cannot look past Bali!” - IVHQ Bali Program Manager

Teen volunteering in the Philippines

“On the Philippines Program , teen volunteers can experience the best of volunteering paired with the stunning natural beauty of Palawan Island. The projects are all about making the most of your time abroad. It doesn’t matter if you choose the Childcare project, Teaching project, Construction and Renovation project or the Environmental project, the emphasis is on volunteering while enjoying yourself. How can you not when you are literally right on the beach? Downtime can be spent exploring Palawan and weekends island hopping. Volunteering just got a whole lot more exciting and what a great program to begin your IVHQ experience!” - IVHQ Philippines Program Manager

Teen volunteering in Sri Lanka

“ Sri Lanka is the perfect location for young volunteers. Life in and around Kandy is a mix of traditional Sri Lankan charm with all the modern amenities, friendly people and a local team that is on hand 24/7. Youth volunteers have the opportunity to work in the local community with children and the elderly, or for those with a love for animals, consider the Wild Elephant Conservation project. During your free time, volunteers can check out the local markets and shops, discover the stunning Sri Lankan beaches or take a trip on one of Sri Lanka’s famous rail lines!” - IVHQ Sri Lanka Program Manager

Volunteering for teens - expert tips from an under 18 volunteer:

• Over-packing is something you definitely want to avoid, especially if you think you think you’re going to carry your luggage frequently. Bring durable clothing that’s easily mixed and matched, and leave unnecessarily heavy or valuable items at home.
• Before you leave home (especially if you’re going to be away for a long time), spend a day with your friends and loved ones you’re leaving at home. You’ll have a good memory of them while you’re away, and have a chance to get everyone’s contact information so you’ll stay in touch while away.
• Try to live as a local. Eat the local food, observe the traditions and customs of those around you, and learn at least a few words of the language if it is foreign to you. Even one or two words never fail to impress the locals.
• Talk to your friends and family back home frequently, but stay off your phone/technology during the day. Take in the new sights around you.
• On the same note, don’t view the world through your phone. It’s important, and extremely tempting, to take plenty of pictures on your trip but there needs to be a balance between snapping lots of great candids and just viewing the sights for yourself. As a sixteen year old girl, I know how hard that can be. Really. But it pays off to put your phone down and watch that sunset, halfway around the world from home, and just have it as a memory.
• Remember it’s extremely common to feel homesick, but the best way to combat it is throwing yourself into your work. You’ll be home before you know it and wishing you were abroad again so make the most of it.
• Spend time with your host family. Letting strangers into your house constantly, cooking for them, and keeping them occupied is no easy feat for anyone. Your host family is giving up their privacy for you to help others and experience the world from a completely new perspective. Sit down with them, ask them how they decided to host travelers, ask them about the area, and be sure to thank them for all they’ve done.
• Don’t rely on finding your favorite food in any restaurant in the area. Even if they do have it on the menu, it’s almost certainly not much like the version you’re used to at home. This is coming from someone who’s had yak cheese pizza from Nepal. It was a new experience that’s for sure.
• Take it all in, take as many pictures as possible, try to keep a travel journal - You’ll want to remember this trip.

If you’re ready to pack your bags and experience a completely different lifestyle, culture and widen your global perspective, you can explore our full range of volunteer abroad programs . If you would like personalized guidance and recommdendations to help plan your teen volunteer abroad program for 2024 or 2025, please contact us and our team of Volunteer Travel Specialists will be more than happy to assist.

Latest blog posts

Volunteering with my sister on the IVHQ Costa Rica Program

Over the summer my older sister (age 20) and I (age 16), experienced our first trip abroad on our own on the IVHQ Turtle Conser...

How I spent my summer volunteering with turtles in Bali

If you've been asking yourself “What should I do during my summer break?”, “Where do I want to go?” and “How do I want to make ...

How to get started

Be the first to know.

Get exclusive offers, program opening updates, travel inspo, volunteer stories, scholarships and competitions… Straight to your inbox!

LATEST NEWS

• 0161 870 6212
• 1.413.517.0266
• Responsible Travel

A WORLD OF CHOICE

We offer over 150 exciting projects across 4 continents and 32 countries. If you aren’t sure where you would like to have an experience of a lifetime then please use the program finder below.

• Latin America
• Cayman Islands
• Eswatini (Swaziland)
• South Africa
• Asia-Pacific
• New Zealand
• Philippines

PICK OF THE MONTH

Volunteer teaching in ghana.

• Project Types
• Conservation
• Healthcare & Medical
• Volunteer Types
• Career Break

Photography Internship in South Africa

• Academic Area
• Art, Design & Architecture
• Business & Management
• Communication, Journalism & Marketing
• Education, Social Work & Psychology
• Engineering & Resource Management
• Environmental Science & Animal Studies
• Health Sciences
• International Studies, Politics & Justice
• Sports Science & Recreation
• Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security
• Online Programs
• Volunteer Abroad
• Intern Abroad
• Study Abroad
• Group Programs
• Language Courses
• Earn Credit
• University Group
• Under 18 Group
• Special Interest
• Edu Resource
• Special Offers
• Portal Login

UNDER 18 VOLUNTEERS

If you are an under 18 volunteer, join Kaya to do something worthwhile, meet new international friends and visit an amazing destination all the while developing your CV/resume for college, university or in your job search.

Under 18 Volunteer opportunities abroad

Can i become a teen volunteer.

With Kaya, your age shouldn’t stand in the way! We have over 30 under 18 volunteer abroad opportunities available to 16 and 17-year-olds, across our most popular countries – check these out below – and a special summer teen volunteer program for 13-15 year old in South Africa.

What’s more, if you’d like to become an under 18 volunteer, but have a friend or family member who is over 18 to volunteer with you, then they can act as your legal guardian on a number of our programs. We appreciate the dedication and eagerness that younger volunteers bring to our projects and, where possible, we work to lower our age limits.

Our under 18 volunteer placements for under 18’s are selected to provide a greater level of supervision, with the same impactful work as all our Kaya projects.

How do I get started as a teen volunteer?

If you are under 18 and interested in volunteering abroad, get in touch with one of our advisors today and we’ll find a great teen volunteer project that’s right for you! We’ll talk you through everything to find you the perfect placement, and support you throughout your journey. Don’t let your age stand between you and the world! Become a better global citizen with Kaya!

Join a teen volunteering abroad project now and make all your friends jealous by jetting off to see the Big 5 , work in a children’s centre or help to coach sports in Eswatini.

If you are interested in protecting the environment, join our reforestation camp in South Africa this spring and help with environmental education, mural painting, solar cookers and tree planting. Alternatively, if you would rather come with people you already know, why not speak to your school about organising a school trip or talk to your  family  about planning to volunteer for your next summer vacation?

Swaziland is one of our great locations that suit volunteers aged under 18 – read here to find out why!

If you are 16 years old, make sure you take a look at our recent blog post to see what under 18 volunteer abroad options you can join with Kaya.

What do you need to do to take part in an under 18 volunteer project?

To be considered for our under 18 volunteer projects, all you need to do is attend a telephone interview, obtain a letter of consent from a parent or guardian and provide a reference from a teacher or trusted, family friend. We expect a high level of maturity from our younger volunteers as you will be treated as, and will be expected to behave as, an adult. Remember, as a teen volunteer, you are there to help others and not to be tended to – but also know that in your volunteering you will learn and grow in life-changing ways.

Resource for parents of teen volunteers abroad

Many parents find international volunteering to be a great option for their teenager’s summer or holiday plans. Contact one of our advisors to learn about the benefits of these opportunities for your child.

We have a number of great resources to help you support you in planning with your family. Check these out here!

Why volunteering abroad for teenagers is a great idea!

While you can help make a difference by joining our teen volunteer abroad programs, there are also a lot of ways that you benefit from becoming a volunteer. Our top 4 reasons for teens to volunteer abroad are:

Gain confidence

It might be a little scary to begin with but teen volunteering and working with other people around the world can really build your confidence. By venturing out of your comfort zone and pushing yourself to take on new challenges, you will learn to navigate your way around obstacles and thrive off your accomplishments.

Receive Support

With all of our under 18 volunteer projects, you can have peace of mind that there is always someone on hand to help you. This level of support is what sets Kaya under 18 volunteer projects apart and makes them perfect for our teen volunteers and first-time travelers.

Gain experience

If you are a highschooler looking for a way to explore your passions, our under 18 volunteer opportunities are the perfect way to spend your holidays. Gaining hands-on experience in your chosen subject could be valuable experience to add to your resume. Or it could be a great way to stand out from the crowd on your college application

Work on your CV/resume

If you are not sure of your career path just yet but are looking to make a difference when you travel, the skills you will develop on a Kaya under 18 volunteer program are second to none. The ability to communicate and work alongside others, create and stick to a budget, and adapt to new environments and cultures, are just some of the skills Kaya’s teen volunteers develop while taking part on a Kaya under 18 volunteer program.

Matching teen volunteer’s to the right project abroad

We want everyone who travels with Kaya to have a great time but it is equally as important that our projects and communities get the most out of each volunteer they receive. That’s why we work hard to offer as many ethical projects as possible and is important that we match you to your perfect under 18 volunteer project. Once you have decided on a project you will then need to attend a telephone interview. This is something that we ask of all of our volunteers but is particularly important for our teen volunteers.

Although you don’t need any practical experience to join any of our under 18 volunteer projects, to be considered you must attend a telephone interview. Not only does this allow us to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the project it gives you a chance to ask any questions or raise any concerns you may have. Once you have attended your telephone interview, you must get a letter from a parent or guardian and provide a reference from a teacher or trusted family friend. From that point on, we can advise you on how to organise your flights, visas, and anything else you might need and you’ll be ready to start your teen volunteer adventure!

Take a look through our Volunteer projects abroad for under 18’s

Volunteer in Zimbabwe and take part in important conservation and anti-poaching work, helping to protect vulnerable animals and preserve their habitats.

Join the Enchanted Forest Art Therapy Volunteering in Belize and make a positive impact on local children.

If you want to help a rural impoverished community while learning about the culture and the people of Cambodia, all that while making friends, this is a placement for you!

If you are under 18 join this initiative Volunteering for 16 and 17 Year Olds in Swaziland

Join our volunteering for 16 and 17 year olds in India and spend time with other young people developing global citizenship.

Spend time on Wildlife Research and Conservation volunteering in Zimbabwe and gain an incredible insight into research and conservation efforts taking place in the area.

Girl and women empowerment volunteering in Zambia offers the opportunity to increase access to education, sport, livelihoods and more.

Volunteer and have an amazing time working on this game reserve in Port Elizabeth. Work with South Africa's big 5: lion, African elephant, cape buffalo, rhino and leopard.

Spend your holidays doing something different and help others through volunteering overseas. Work on 1 of 4 projects in Costa Rica that accept teenagers from 15 years old.

Volunteer in India and help with the provision of child care to disadvantaged children as well as participating in a range of exciting activities essential to Indian culture.

Volunteer in Zimbabwe and get first hand experience of wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and release in one of Africa’s oldest wildlife sanctuaries located in Bulawayo.

Become a sports coach and volunteer in Swaziland. Coach disadvantaged children to play football, soccer, tennis, volleyball, netball and more.

As a community sports coaching volunteer you will volunteer in South Africa in a Cape Town township where sports coaching is much needed.

Bring your caring and sharing approach to life and participate in community volunteering in Southern Vietnam.

Volunteer as a music teacher at a local state run schools where music access and development for school children in Belize is limited to only those who can afford it.

Volunteer in Quito and help with the education of children who work upwards of ten hours a day in the markets, streets and countryside of Ecuador to support their families.

If you are interested in environmental science and conservation efforts then volunteer on this project located in the stunning Cloud Forest in Ecuador.

By volunteering in India on a Community Teaching project, you have the chance to give back to a number of communities where support is needed to enhance the quality of teaching.

Our Experience India Tour encompasses charm, culture and care over 10 or 14 nights where you will be able to see the sights, learn about the real India and get a taste of volunteering.

This marine conservation project is perfect for divers or those wishing to learn to dive and contribute to sustainable development for the sea and local communities.

Volunteer in India on this Women’s Empowerment project and help challenge the problems facing women today in local communities.

Volunteer with us on a turtle conservation project in Sri Lanka and help a local team protect five endangered species of turtle.

Join this incredible wildlife photography course to develop skills for taking great shots whilst participating in essential conservation education and activities in the Greater Kruger Area.

Become a community teaching volunteer in South Africa and provide essential teaching support in the poverty stricken communities in the townships of Cape Town.

Volunteer in South Africa on a research and conservation project in the greater Kruger area home to the Big 5; lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard, and more

By volunteering in Swaziland, you can help to care for orphaned and vulnerable children in need at a daycare centre.

Combine travel and volunteering in South Africa with our bespoke Kruger to Swaziland Building and Volunteer Adventure.

Volunteer in Swaziland to help to build family homes for needy families using local building materials and techniques.

Volunteer in Tanzania on a teaching and community work project based on the island of Zanzibar, located just off Africa's Tanzanian coast.

Volunteer on a Dolphin and Marine Conservation project on the island of Zanzibar and help preserve the habitats by monitoring tourist and wildlife interaction.

Volunteer near the amazing Victoria Falls in Zambia on a project working with local communities and do something extra special this Christmas.

Volunteer in Zambia on teaching and community work and support local schools with large class numbers and a small number of teachers.

Volunteer in Zambia on our sports development project, teaching sport skills as well as tackling topics such as HIV, nutrition and living a healthy life.

Easy 4-step application process

APPLY ONLINE

Apply online and pay your application fee to apply for your space on your chosen project. Our advisors will then contact you to guide you through the next steps.

TELEPHONE INTERVIEW

Once we’ve received your application, we’ll review your details and be in touch to arrange your informal telephone interview with your Kaya Placement Advisor.

CONFIRMATION

Following your interview, we will provide you a placement offer. Once you are ready to confirm your placement and dates, you can pay your confirmation fee to book and secure your space.

GET PREPARED

When you have confirmed your project dates we'll send you your Welcome Pack and lots of other helpful information to assist you with preparing for your placement.

Teens & High School Volunteer Abroad Programs | Under 18 Mission Trips

By Sarah Vandenberg

Updated for 2024

Volunteering abroad and high school exchanges are an excellent way for teens and high school students under age 18 to learn about other cultures, build new interests, and of course—do some good. I first learned about volunteer travel programs for teens in college, when my friend’s 15-year-old sister, Hailey, traveled to Costa Rica to study sea turtles. We’ll use Hailey’s experience volunteering abroad to learn about the process of finding a teen travel program, the importance of safety for teens volunteering overseas, and recommendations for specific under age 18 volunteer programs, including service trips to Cuba, which are becoming extremely popular now.

Hailey’s parents agonized over whether to allow their daughter to travel without them, and must have asked hundreds of questions to teachers, other parents, and the tour group before they signed her permission form.

Safety is naturally a big concern for parents  who are thinking about letting their teens volunteer abroad and finding a program that caters to teens and has  robust volunteer safety practices in place is critical in researching programs. A perfect example of such a program is International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), one of the world’s largest volunteer abroad programs. Nearly 20% of IVHQ’s volunteers are teenagers and they offer 16-17 year olds the opportunity to travel independently to 17 destinations around the world.

GoEco  has curated teen programs with chaperone supervision and tours for those who are 15-17 years old for projects ranging from animal care to conservation programs. They also have a list of special programs to participate with parental consent . Another great program for teens is Projects Abroad , which sets the Gold Standard for safety amongst volunteer service providers. Projects Abroad offers safe, dependable trips for high school students . Furthermore, many of their volunteer trips and language courses are open to travelers age 16 and up. Volunteering Solutions is another excellent option for younger travelers. Check out their best summer volunteer programs ,  or wildlife conservation projects for outdoor adventures! The minimum age for most of their programs is 17, and roughly 18% of their volunteers are aged 17-18. They offer 24/7 emergency support and thoroughly vet their projects and host families .

After two weeks abroad with her classmates, Hailey came back thrilled with the work she accomplished, the new friends she made, and the opportunity to put her Spanish lessons to practical use. Given Hailey’s interest in expanding her Spanish language skills, an alternative option that her parents may have considered is  Maximo Nivel’s Summer Spanish Camp  in Costa Rica, which is a highly structured program to learn Spanish, participate in sports, explore Costa Rica, and engage in community service in a safe and guided environment (i.e. 24/7 chaperones).

Parents:  whether you have a teen who is looking for a Peace Corps alternative and wants to volunteer abroad with a school or youth group , or if you’re looking for a new twist on family vacations , this article is for you. We have curated a select group of volunteer organizations that offer projects for teens who are 16+ or offer high school volunteer abroad programs .

Is Under 18 too Young to Volunteer Abroad?

Volunteer programs have different requirements as to how young a volunteer participant can be. For example, the Peace Corps requires that participants be at least 18 years old and most of their projects require a college degree. Some programs may also require an adult guardian to be present if the volunteer is under 18.

International Volunteer HQ offers 17 teen volunteer programs around the world, including pre-departure support and unrivaled safety and support services .

GoEco offers lots of meaningful travel opportunities, including special programs designed for 15-18 year olds , which have been carefully selected and include a higher level of supervision.

Maximo Nivel  is another highly respected volunteer organization that accepts participants as young as 15 through its “ Spanish Camp ” program. Teens can participate in a Spanish immersion program and have the option to spend 3 to 4 hours each volunteering in the host community as well.

Projects Abroad  offers  high school specials  for teens (ages 15 to 18 years) interested in joining students from around the world on programs in  Nepal ,  Thailand , and  Argentina .

African Impact  a highly respected volunteer organization that has been sending volunteers overseas since 2004, is an alternative to the Peace Corps and offers volunteer programs for participants as young as 16. African Impact offers 20 different types of projects for under 18 volunteers, ranging from marine conservation in Tanzania to teaching English in South Africa.

Benefits of Teen and Under-18 Volunteer Abroad Programs and High School Exchanges

Let’s take a look at a few benefits of under 18 volunteering abroad or participating in an exchange program  as a teenager/high school student:

Community Service Experience

Volunteering overseas lends a new perspective to community service, and for high school juniors and seniors, may help boost college applications. With increasingly competitive university acceptance rates, volunteering abroad—coupled with projects in your own community—has the  potential to set one student apart from another .

For students who aren’t very interested in volunteering near home, coupling a service project with a vacation is just one way to inspire them to help those in need. I have friends who never volunteered (unless their parents dragged them along) until taking a service trip with their church or class. After that first project volunteering abroad under 18 years old, they were hooked: many of them changed the colleges they applied to or the majors they declared after volunteering in another country.

Cultural Immersion

The other day I overheard an interview between a campus recruiter and a second-semester freshman. The recruiter needed testimonials for the university website, and the conversation kept coming back to, “I’m so glad to be in such diverse community.”

She’d never traveled outside of the Midwest, and when she made new friends from other countries, or who took vacations abroad on the regular, she felt the need to “catch up.” She valued their experiences, and wished she’d been able to build her own earlier. I would suspect a great number of students feel this way—and being able to do good even for a short time in a different community can make a lifelong impact.

Skill-Building

How many of us have taken foreign language lessons in high school? And how many of us have applied those skills outside of trivia night?

Hailey, who I mentioned earlier, took three years of Spanish classes before ever needing to use the language outside of school. Traveling to Costa Rica gave her the opportunity to challenge herself, and she made a conscious effort to speak Spanish as much as possible. When she came back, she was obviously much more comfortable in her phrasing and I wouldn’t be surprised if her Spanish grades improved that year.

That’s just one example. Teenage volunteering abroad experiences also help with:

Time management:  How do you make sure you get to the 8:15 bus in a place you’ve never been? Budgeting for getting lost, making it to your project on time, and being aware of how long you have to complete it help build valuable time management skills that will be needed later.

Navigation:  Same question as above! If you’re in a community very different from your own—maybe one that’s in a rural area while you’ve always lived in a city—can challenge and grow navigation skills.

Communication:  Even if your host family or the country you’re in predominantly speaks English, there may be cultural barriers to overcome. Learning to speak with people from different backgrounds is an excellent way to build and refine communication skills.

Teamwork:  How do you complete a project with people you may not have met before? And how will you know what to do if it’s a new project, one without lots of clear instructions, or one in which you have zero experience? It can be a daunting prospect even for adults, and you can be sure teamwork goes a long way toward finishing the project (and doing it well!).

Service Learning as a Component of Youth Volunteer Abroad Programs

Service learning  is a growing movement to couple educational activities with volunteering. Teenage volunteer abroad participants and high school students gain a better understanding a subject while making an impact on their community and developing a sense of personal responsibility in their work.

Through service learning, students follow a lesson plan created by their school or other educational program, while having flexibility and creative input into a service project spearheaded by a community-based group. This hands-on approach to learning also engages teens in reflection and discussion about what they’d like to accomplish through their project, how they can change or improve along the way, and what impact their project had in the end.

At the end of this article is a list of volunteer abroad programs that include service learning. You also can learn more about service learning from the  National Youth Leadership Council .

How to Choose a Teen Volunteer Abroad Program

Find organizations that specialize in teen volunteer programs.

There are literally thousands of volunteering abroad organizations in the world yet few specifically cater to under 18 volunteers. Be sure to stick with organizations that offer special programs for teen volunteers. Global Vision International  hosts thousands of under 18 volunteers each year and have an impeccable track records in keeping their young participants healthy and safe. So how do you go about choosing the right student travel program? In most ways, you’ll want to use the same checklist for any other volunteer project:

Set Realistic Expectations

This is tricky for teens and adults alike—what you want to do might not gel with what a volunteer organization needs. And because of age and experience, teens have far fewer options available. Service learning programs are built specifically to be age-appropriate and effective, while general volunteer programs that don’t require much experience—think painting murals or gardening—are perfect for families and groups. It’s also important to keep in mind that programs geared towards volunteering abroad for teenagers are short-term, learning experiences rather than intensive international development projects.

Set a Schedule

There are far fewer teen volunteer abroad opportunities than are available for adults, and many of them have set start and end dates—often occurring over winter, spring, or summer break. As you look at different programs, know any schedule constraints you may need to work with, and be sure to plan far enough in advance to coordinate school, work, or other activities.

Research Your Options

Don’t settle for the first program you’ll find in an online search. Large marketing budgets don’t always equate to the most valuable experiences or responsible programs. Look at a variety of volunteer organizations and find the one that makes the most sense for your family or group.

Read Reviews

Volunteer Forever is the perfect place to start! Reading brochures and websites will only get you so far. Learning what other volunteers have to say can mean the difference between choosing an amazing trip and a letdown. Check out the end of this article for a list of teen volunteer programs and reviews right here on Volunteer Forever.

Ask Questions

For an excellent list of questions you should ask any volunteer organization, click  here .

A Few Notes about Safety for Under-18 Travelers

My mom still gets a little on edge whenever I travel. I’m not sure it’s something that ever goes away, but after years of solo trips to countries she knows as “The murder capital of the world,” or “Your dad and I had a friend who was killed there in the 80s” I’ve learned how to approach her most common travel fears (and hopefully yours as well). Below are some especially important considerations for participants in under 18 volunteer abroad programs:

“What if you get sick or hurt?”  It doesn’t matter if your child is in perfect health and has never had a broken bone in his life—it’s still a legitimate concern and one you won’t shake until he gets back home. Three things to do:

• Check with the tour group to see how they address students’ health while abroad. They should have readily-available information about travel health insurance, local clinics or hospitals, and steps to take in case of emergency. As an example, check out Global Leadership Adventures’  Security and Safety page  for answers to common questions about safety, security, and health. Be sure they have the most up-to-date information about your teen as well, including emergency contacts, health insurance provider, and any allergies or other information that could be helpful.
• If you have health insurance, don’t assume your provider will cover trips outside of the country—if it doesn’t, compare other providers and purchase the option that’s right for you. Be sure your teen, the tour group, and any emergency contacts have the most up-to-date information and can get in touch in case something should go wrong.
• Visit a travel clinic to learn about common ailments or injuries that might happen in the country your teen is traveling to, and how to prevent them. You can find a list of travel clinics  here .

“What if you get attacked?”  This one is tough, but the best way to allay those fears may be to talk it over with the tour group, with other parents who’ve sent their teens abroad, and if you can, with your teen’s host family or other contacts in-country. The chances of anyone on the tour being attacked might be the very same (or even lower) as in your home community, but be sure to do your research, and be certain your child knows how to avoid potential danger by staying with his group, by protecting his belongings, and by behaving appropriately for the community he’s in.

“What if you lose your money/bags/passport/other important items?”  This piggybacks on the last point: be sure your teen knows basic safety practices while abroad. Things like not leaving his bag sitting on a table, or resting his cell phone on top of his belongings where it can easily be snatched. Make sure he knows who to talk to as soon as he knows something has gone missing—as with health info, the tour provider should have a plan already in place should someone’s items get lost or stolen.

“How will I know you’re ok?”  This has always been the biggest sticking point for my parents. If they don’t hear from me at least once a day on my travels, they worry. And that’s been tough when I’m in the jungle or trying to scale the Great Firewall of China. I’ve gotten in massive fights with them over calling and emailing because here’s the thing: who the heck calls or writes email updates every day? Do you really need to use those minutes or text charges, and do you really want them to hunt down an Internet cafe for an email? Here’s a middle ground—just ask them to update their status on Twitter or Facebook, or text you on WhatsApp. Chances are they’re probably going to do that anyway, and by seeing Facebook photos and “Ziplining #thisisawesome” fly by on Twitter, you’ll know they’re doing fine.

Here are a few more resources to check out:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention : The CDC has lots of information about traveler health, country-specific vaccinations and common illnesses, and ways to stay safe while abroad.
• U.S. Department of State – Travel : Here you’ll find information about passports, safety guides, emergency contact info, and more.
• Travisa : This is my one-stop-shop for visas, if I ever need them.
• Travelex : A good place to exchange money before travel.

Recommended Teen Volunteer Abroad Programs

Most popular guidebooks, 2024 best volunteer abroad programs, organizations, & projects, medical volunteer abroad programs for doctors, nurses, pre med students, cheap affordable volunteer abroad programs & low cost overseas projects, 200 volunteer abroad & study abroad scholarships & grants, dental volunteer abroad & medical mission trips | dentists & students, volunteer abroad opportunities for seniors and retirees, nursing volunteer abroad projects for students & professional nurses, short term volunteer abroad programs & mission trips (1 week & 2 weeks), long term volunteer work abroad programs & voluntary charity jobs, trending guidebooks, volunteering abroad after the coronavirus outbreak, 2024 best internships abroad: medical care, marine biology & more, volunteer in australia: animals, conservation, ranching and more, 2024 best volunteer abroad programs, organizations, & projects, international volunteer hq (ivhq).

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is an excellent opportunity for teens to volunteer overseas. Since 2007, IVHQ has placed over 130,000 volunteers on impactful and affordable projects in dozens of countries worldwide. With an emphasis on sustainability and safety, IVHQ partners with local NGOs to host volunteers of a wide variety of programs, ranging from wildlife and animal care, to teaching, to sports coaching, and much more. These programs are not only educational, but also opening their eyes to other cultures and life experiences.

Supervised Youth Adventures

If your parents are feeling anxious about your plans to travel abroad, check out IVHQ’s supervised Youth Adventure Packages . Designed for teens ages 15 to 17, these are all-inclusive volunteer abroad experiences that have been created and vetted by IVHQ to deliver appropriate volunteering, accommodation, meals, transport, cultural activities, and full-time coordinator supervision and support. Not only will you have safe volunteer experiences, but your parents will also have peace of mind! There are 17 projects around the world for you to choose from!

Teen Programs

Here’s an opportunity for teens ages 16-17 to travel independently and volunteer on one of 17 IVHQ teen programs offered abroad. Visit Bali, Portugal, or Costa Rica when you choose IVHQ’s traditional volunteering projects that place you alongside volunteers of all ages.

Volunteer in Bali , and stay in Ubud on the island of Nusa Pen. Projects range from Teaching, Kindergarten, Environmental Education, Health Education, Construction and Renovation, and Turtle Conservation. Accommodation is provided in volunteer houses.

Spend your weekend exploring popular destinations like the beaches of Sanur, Seminyak, or Kuta. Try a cycling or trekking tour on Mount Batur, or immerse yourself in the local culture and visit temples. Program fees start at $385 for one week. Read more here .

High School Groups

Expand your horizons and foster cross-cultural understanding while you volunteer on community projects with your peers! If you’re a teen between the ages of 15 and 18, IVHQ has the perfect project for your high school group in more than 13 programs in Africa, Asia, Central America, South America, Europe, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

IVHQ can create customized itineraries that provide a safe environment for your high school group to learn, grow and challenge yourselves. IVHQ offers a range of services, such as detailed pre-departure training and access to an alumni network of more than 130,000 volunteers.

You’ll have 24/7 support from local IVHQ partners and teams, airport pickups, and volunteer accommodation in a safe community near your placement. Imagine doing rewarding volunteer work in Cusco, Peru , before taking an unforgettable week-long mini adventure exploring the world-famous Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley! This is one example of a destination that includes important volunteer work that you can perform while on a group trip. Program fees vary depending upon group size. Learn more and apply here!

GoEco teens in Bali

Since 2006, GoEco has offered affordable volunteer abroad programs and internships in over 40 countries throughout Africa ,  Asia ,  Australasia ,  Central America ,  Europe , the  Middle East , and  South America . With more than 150 different programs, including programs specifically for teens , and under 18 programs with parental consent , GoEco is a great organization to check out if you’re looking for a variety of impactful trips to choose from, from wildlife conservation  to  teaching English . As a volunteer, you will have 24-hour support from the GoEco team, from start to finish. Currently, GoEco is offering a special travel grant where you can stay for the 3rd week free! The featured programs below all qualify !

Rainforest, Wildlife & Volcanoes for Teenagers in Costa Rica

Discover the Costa Rica Teen Program, a two-week journey blending conservation with cultural immersion for 15-17-year-olds. Adventure through San José, ascend Volcan Poas and partake in rainforest conservation. Enjoy snorkeling, cooking classes, and wildlife tours, all while staying in communal accommodations with peers. This program offers a structured, supportive environment with a focus on ecological stewardship and cultural appreciation, priced at $2,880 for an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Another amazing Wildlife conservation and Expedition nearby is in Ecuador!

Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation in Sri Lanka

Get your teen excited to volunteer to help endangered sea turtles in Sri Lanka! This program is great for 16 years old and over with parental consent. Not only will your teenager learn about sea turtles, they will work in the hatchery, participate in beach clean ups, and give back to the community by promoting awareness about sea turtles conservation. Hatchery tasks include feeding, nursing sick and injured turtles, cleaning them and their environment, and releasing baby turtles to the ocean. During nesting periods, your teen may also experience camping out on the beach at night to protect the nests. 

Located in the coastal town of Galle, in southern Sri Lanka, the program will be close to beautiful world-class beaches, as well as ancient buildings and museums, and trendy shops and boutiques. It is also regarded as one of the safest destinations in Sri Lanka. GoEco has a 24/7 emergency hotline, as well as an experienced local team so parents can rest assured of their safety. Here is more information ! 

Check out other similar programs: Sea Turtle Conservation for Teenagers in Bali and Sea Turtle and Community in Bali . 

Food Rescue in Lisbon, Portugal

Another educational and rewarding program to consider for your teen is the Food Rescue program in Lisbon, where they will learn about the worldwide dilemma of food waste. They will be part of the mission to reduce food waste to redistribute them to feed the hungry. Tasks may include food collection (from restaurants, shops, and supermarkets), preparation, packaging and distribution to individuals and families in need so that these foods do not go into the rubbish. They will work up to 4 hours daily in evening shifts. The minimum age for this program is 16 years old with parental consent. 

During the day, there is plenty of time to explore Lisbon, which is a generally safe city. They can wander the city streets, or travel outside to nearby quaint towns. Accommodations include living in a sustainable hostel with three meals provided. For more details, visit GoEco ! 

GoEco – Climate Change & Wildlife for Teenagers in Kenya

The Climate Change & Wildlife for Teenagers program in Nakuru offers a unique two-week experience for 15-17-year-olds, blending cultural immersion, wildlife conservation, and environmental stewardship. Participants engage in activities like Maasai cultural experiences, wildlife tracking, combating invasive species, and community projects. The itinerary includes exploring Nakuru National Park, Thomson Falls, and Lake Naivasha, along with educational elements such as Swahili lessons and environmental workshops. Accommodations in a secure gated community and comprehensive support ensure a safe and enriching experience. Priced at $1,550, this program is an ideal blend of adventure, education, and meaningful volunteering, tailored for teens during spring break.

African Wildlife Orphanage in Zimbabwe

Your teen can also join one of GoEco’s best volunteer programs in a world renowned and successful wildlife sanctuary in Zimbabwe, perfect for those considering a career as a wildlife veterinarian or zoology. This program is open for 18 and up, but also accepts 16-17 year olds with parental permission. Your teen will work alongside professionals to care for injured wildlife that are abandoned, abused, or orphaned. They will also learn and be involved in nature conservation research, educating the public about conservation, and hands-on care for the animals.  To get started, here is more information !

Maximo Nivel

Maximo Nivel  is the top-rated volunteer abroad organization on Volunteer Forever , and for good reason: it offers  affordable ,  safe , and  impactful  programs perfect for high school students. Maximo Nivel has a variety of volunteer abroad programs and Spanish language courses in Latin America and has hosted  over 25,000 participants  since it was founded in 2003.

Spanish Camp

Through its  Spanish Camp program , high school students aged 15 and up are invited for a full Spanish language immersion program at COSI, the Costa Rica Spanish Institute.

Maximo Nivel offers a service learning component to language learners, who can spend three to four hours per day volunteering with local communities to support children’s programs, assist with construction projects, or learn about sea turtle conservation. Monday through Friday each week, you’ll take Spanish classes and take part in your volunteering track – on weeknights, you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to take part in salsa lessons, movie nights, and much more.

Included with the program is airport pickup and drop-off, 24/7 in-country support, 8:1 student-chaperone ratio, housing with a host family, private transport for all activities, and program and safety orientation. To learn more about Maximo Nivel’s Spanish Camp, visit:  http://maximonivel.com/spanish/spanishcamp

High School Abroad

Through Maximo Nivel’s high school abroad program, you’ll spend a full semester or full year at an accredited, private high school in Costa Rica. All of your classes are taught in English, while Spanish is taught as a second language.

You also may be able to earn credit toward the International Baccalaureate Diploma, and take AP courses. During your stay, you’ll live with a host family and have assistance from a cultural advisor to help navigate you through cultural and language differences – plus, you can take part in optional tours, social events, and much more to gain the most from your adventure in Costa Rica.

This  study abroad  program includes airport transfer, housing, meals, school tuition and textbooks, orientation, private Spanish classes, and much more. Click here to learn more:  http://maximonivel.com/study-abroad/high-school/

High School Group Volunteering

Maximo Nivel offers several different  travel options for high school groups , including  volunteering abroad , a  volunteer adventure , and a  native Spanish program . Your itinerary can be designed to focus on Spanish language, service learning, cultural travel, or any combination of those programs, and all trips are carefully supervised by Maximo Nivel staff who are here to focus on your educational goals. Trips are available for summer, winter, and spring breaks, or year-round. Click here to learn more:  http://maximonivel.com/groups/high-school/

Volunteer Adventure

For two weeks, you’re invited on Maximo Nivel’s volunteer adventure, which includes five days of community service and six days of travel through Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru. Volunteer activities you can take part in include working with kids, teaching English, construction, conservation, animal care, or medical / healthcare.

In Costa Rica, you’ll go on a cultural night or city tour; 3-in-1 tour of Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfall, and coffee tour; a catamaran Tortuga Island tour, and a trip to Manuel Antonio National Park.

In Guatemala, you’ll go on a hike to Volcano Pacaya, take surf lessons in El Salvador, embark on a zip line tour, and spend the night in Tikal.

And in Peru, you’ll take a Cusco city tour, Sacred Valley tour, a two-day tour of Machu Picchu, and a two-day tour of Lake Titicaca and Puno. Learn more about Maximo Nivel’s volunteer adventure trips here:  http://maximonivel.com/adventure/full/

Projects Abroad

With  Projects Abroad , you’re never too young to discover the world of volunteering. That’s why this organization has specially designed trips for  teens . Their team will be with you every step of the way to make sure you’re safe  to get the most out of your trip, and they even offer some  escorted flights  to certain destinations!

Check out some volunteer projects below. Program fees start from $925 per week.

High School Specials

If you’re between 15-18 years old , you can team up with like-minded teens from around the world. Together with new friends, you’ll experience life in a different country and help disadvantaged communities or protect the planet. And, you’ll gain self-confidence to help you pursue future dreams and overcome challenges. These trips are ideal for gaining  community service credit .

High School Special trips have fixed dates with set itineraries filled with fun and high impact activities – here are a few of the most popular trips:

• Volunteer with children in  Nepal  or  Ghana
• Gain medical experience in South America while learning Spanish in  Argentina
• Discover the archaeological world of the ancient Incan Empire in Peru

Projects Abroad’s staff go above and beyond to make sure teens, parents, and teachers feel confident about the trip. If it’s your first time overseas, staff will give you all the support you need to have an amazing time.

What volunteers say – Review from Cassia

“Working with children is magical. Having worked with those children made me a better person. They were all so friendly, always offering us a happy smile when we played together. Two weeks sounds like a very short period of time, but they were enough for me to miss them.”

African Impact

African Impact is a responsible, sustainable volunteer travel organization that has won multiple industry awards, including being voted the world’s Top Volunteer Abroad Organization by volunteers on GoAbroad four years in a row. Since 2004, they have hosted over 35,000 participants on 20 projects across 7 countries. The organization believes in the spirit of Africa and that the volunteer experience is just as important as the impact made. It is also recognized as a trusted specialist on volunteering and interning in Southern Africa. African Impact offers internships, as well as group, family, and high school projects. The minimum age requirement for their projects is 16, making African Impact a great option for teen and high school volunteers. 

African Impact manages its own projects and is able to provide tangible, real achievements on a regular basis. The organization has a clear Child Protection Policy and ensures that volunteers complete a criminal record check prior to involvement. Experienced staff is on the ground to support volunteers day-in-day-out and the organization does not use volunteer support in replacement for a local person.

In addition to making a positive impact, African Impact also believes that volunteering abroad should be enjoyable. The organization offers a range of activities for volunteers, including teaching children in South Africa , assisting with wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe, working in hospitals or clinics in Kenya, and carrying out dolphin and marine research in Zanzibar .

Early Childhood Development Project in Cape Town

The Early Childhood Development Project in Cape Town offers volunteers the chance to work with vulnerable children in underprivileged townships. Volunteers will support children in foster care homes and pre-schools, providing them with access to education and care that they may not otherwise have access to. The project aims to make a positive, long-term impact on the lives of disadvantaged children by providing them with the support and education they need to succeed.

In addition to working with children, volunteers will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Cape Town and all it has to offer. Cape Town has been named the Most Beautiful City in the World for the past 5 years, and is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Volunteers can take advantage of the many activities available in the city, such as hiking up Table Mountain, going paragliding, kayaking in the ocean, or visiting historic sites such as Robben Island.

Volunteers will live in a spacious guesthouse in the center of town, with shared dorm-style accommodation and shared bathroom facilities. The guesthouse is close to the main sights of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, and the Company’s Gardens. A team on site will be available to support volunteers and help them with any needs they may have during their stay.

Volunteer to Teach English in Zanzibar, Tanzania

Thinking of majoring in education? Find out if teaching is right for you with a  teaching placement in Tanzania with African Impact. If you’re 16 years or older, you can provide assistance in under-resourced primary schools, helping students practice their English-speaking skills, and tutoring students with math. You’ll also provide support to remedial classrooms for persons with disabilities, and mark tests, check homework, and prepare learning material for the next day. Get the children active by playing sports – particularly football and netball – while supervising and coordinating activities.

While in Zanzibar, visit the Zanzibar Butterfly Center or Cheetah’s Rock, a fantastic wildlife sanctuary that lets you get hands-on with rehabilitating animals. Take a trip to see the monkeys at the Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, or relax on one of many beautiful beaches.  Learn more and register today !

Dolphin and Marine Conservation Project 

Volunteer in Zanzibar on African Impact’s Dolphin and Marine Conservation Project and make a real difference to the sustainability of dolphin tourism. As a volunteer, you will monitor human-dolphin interactions, promote ethical dolphin tours, and contribute to the conservation of marine life in the area. This project is ideal for those passionate about marine conservation and the environment. In your free time, you can explore the beautiful coastlines and vibrant culture of Zanzibar. You will live in a private volunteer house near the coastal village of Kizimkazi and work with local communities and organizations to protect the marine ecosystem. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact while enjoying a truly amazing location.

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

Searching for a transformative volunteer abroad experience? Involvement Volunteers International (IVI) , established in 1989, is a non-profit and charity that beckons individuals to be part of 25,000 volunteers who’ve positively impacted 112 projects in 23 countries. They have an excellent safety record, in-country 24/7 support & emergency assistance. Most programs accept 16+, but would need parental consent. Take a look at the below programs suitable for teens.

Kindergarten Volunteering Coral Coast, Fiji

If your teen is interested in a career working with children, then consider this program to give them experience working with kids. Travel to the Coral Coast in Fiji to assist teachers with primary aged children. Volunteers will help in assisting classes for 4-7 year olds alongside a teacher in teaching basic English, plan activities to encourage and engage learning English, and play with the children. Building a relationship with these kids will make an impact in each other’s lives. Coral Coast is famous for its beautiful beaches and coastlines with plenty of activities to do such as surfing, and other water activities. It will be hard to get bored for your teen! Start planning for this adventure here !

Turtle Conservation Program in Bali 

Check out this program if your teen loves the beach and turtles. This popular program is located on the beautiful island of Nusa Penida, which is a 45 minutes boat ride away from Bali. Volunteers will help endangered sea turtles by collecting data on turtle population, clean & feed turtles, collecting eggs, and monitoring their nests. In addition, they will also help with cleaning up the beaches, helping the local community with practicing English, and educating on environmental issues. Activities to do during your free time will be plenty such as hiking, diving, snorkeling, island hopping, or just relaxing on the beach. For more information on how to plan a vacation with volunteering, click here!

English Teaching in Peru

Here is another amazing project for teens to help disadvantaged kids in Cuzco, Peru. This project will undoubtedly open volunteers’ eyes to the hardships (especially lack of education)  that children may face in less developed countries. The minimum age requirement is 16+. Volunteers will help teach English to children, teens, and adults in different settings such as schools, day cares, and community centers.You will get to learn how to create daily lessons and educational activities. The teaching can be one-on-one or group classes. And don’t worry if you do not have experience with teaching, you will be provided a crash course in ESL teaching. And in your free time, immerse yourself in the local culture, with many sightseeings in this ancient civilization. For more information, visit IVI here !

Volunteering Solutions

Volunteering Solutions (VolSol) offers lots of amazing travel opportunities for high schoolers who want to explore the world and make a positive impact through community service. Founded in 2007, VolSol has placed nearly 17,000 volunteers on 150 meaningful projects in 27 countries worldwide. And with a starting fee of just $200, Volunteering Solutions is one of the most affordably-priced volunteer organizations in the world – even offering travel insurance for just $12 per week.

You can find lots of teen, high school, and family volunteering opportunities through VolSol – and the three programs listed below are just a few of the amazing projects you can sign up for that are monitored by VolSol staff, who make sure these trips are safe and provide the very best experience possible for first-time travelers.

Wildlife Conservation in South Africa

If you love animals, VolSol’s wildlife conservation opportunity in South Africa may be the perfect choice for you! For two weeks to two months, you’ll have the chance to work at a wildlife reserve that’s home to Africa’s Big 5 species and many more. While your tasks will depend on what’s needed by the project when you sign up, you may be able to help with lion tracking and monitoring, tree planting and landscaping, elephant sanctuary support, wilderness trail walks and patrols, game counts, and much more.

This program starts from $1,100 for your first two weeks, and is an amazing way to learn about wildlife conservation, enjoy safaris and game drives, and so much more.

Summer Volunteer Program in Thailand

Volunteering Solutions’ Thai volunteer and adventure tour is an incredible way to explore Thailand and experience its culture while helping a local community through volunteer work. You’ll start your trip with a weekend in Bangkok, and after that you’ll travel to Surin, where you’ll learn about Thai history, daily life, and so much more while volunteering at a local child care center. You’ll play games with children, and help with renovating and improving the facility so the children can learn and play in a safe, fun environment – and later during your tour of Surin, you’ll have the chance to volunteer with elephants, visit Khao Yai National Park, and embark on a jungle trek. If you decide to stay for a full month on your Thailand adventure, you’ll spend your final week at the gorgeous beaches of Koh Phangan. Learn more here !

Volunteer Vacation in Nepal

VolSol has several different volunteer vacation options in Nepal , including a language and orientation week, a summer volunteer adventure, an orphanage program, and a teaching placement. VolSol’s summer adventure in Nepal is perfect for high school travelers who want to visit this amazing country in the Himalayas while volunteering with a local community.

This 22-day program starts with an orientation in Kathmandu, where you’ll start your volunteer experience at an orphanage, school, or center for mentally or physically disabled children. As a volunteer, you can provide care and affection, help with basic English lessons, guide the children with basic hygiene practices, and take them out on small excursions. You’ll also take city tours, visit gorgeous and historic temples, embark on a safari, go sightseeing, and so much more. Click here to learn more about volunteering in Nepal!

Global Vision International (GVI)

Founded in 1997 by Richard Walton, Global Vision International (GVI) is an award-winning organization that provides volunteer and internship opportunities in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Latin America, and North America. GVI is unique from other volunteer programs in three ways: they operate their own volunteer projects to ensure real, sustainable impact on the ground; they provide 360 degree support before, during, after your placement; and lastly their alumni network provides increased access to higher education and career development opportunities.

In addition, as a parent-run organization , GVI prioritizes volunteer safety, especially for its under 18 programs. Since 2012, they have provided ethical and responsible programs for teens , with health and safety as their top priority. GVI’s compliance with British Standards 8848 demonstrates their commitment to safety, as they take extra measures to ensure the safety of their teen volunteers. This makes their programs appealing to parents who trust them to care for their children. Here are some samples of their teen programs.

Rainforest and Wildlife Conservation Teen Volunteering In Costa Rica

This popular program is for 15-17 year olds to learn about rainforest conservation in Gandoca, on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. This program will get your teen physically active while exploring Costa Rica’s natural environments such as jungles, mangrove forests, and beaches by hiking, swimming, and boating. They will see many native Costa Rican wildlife during their adventures while learning about wildlife conservation. They will also learn leadership skills, teamwork, resilience, etc through many projects such as the sea turtle surveillance program, mangrove forest restoration, and climate change. Power is limited, so they will get to enjoy the abundant wildlife surrounding them as the reserve is in the middle of the jungle! Get your teen excited by reading other teens’ reviews and videos of this project!

Sea Turtle Conservation and Adventure Teen Volunteering in Thailand

Here is another amazing opportunity for your teen. This teen volunteer program located in Southern Thailand, for 15-17 year olds, allows them to experience Thai culture while helping a local sea turtle conservation center and renovating schools. Specifically, the tasks will include cleaning sea turtle habitats, providing medical treatment to green sea turtles, and recording their growth; as well as cleaning up the nearby beaches, and helping to renovate local schools. For fun, they will have guided tours of the region, learn about responsible tourism, and visit national parks, and Phuket. Click here to get started and make friends around the world!

PADI Diving and Marine Conservation Teen Volunteering in Mexico

Is your teen interested in marine biology and marine life or interested in getting PADI certified? This is an exciting opportunity to learn about marine conservation and what it is like being a marine biologist. This volunteer program is based in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, where the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is located. There are many projects that your teen can participate in such as coral reef monitoring, endangered sea turtle research, and beach clean ups. The program also includes training and practice for PADI Open Water certification in the beginning of the program. For more details such as itinerary and costs, visit GVI !

Dolphin and Whale Conservation Teen Volunteering in the Canary Islands

Here is another marine conservation program specifically designed for 15-17 year olds, on the other side of the world, located in Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Instead, this program focuses on dolphin and whale conservation. This program is invaluable to gain knowledge about the effects of climate change, plastic pollution, and other environmental issues. Specific tasks for this volunteer program may include data on mammal health, population numbers, behavioral patterns, and surveys on the water and beaches. Click here for more information!

Plan My Gap Year

Another summer volunteering program for high school students is  Plan My Gap Year . PMGY offers affordable and impactful volunteer travel opportunities for people of all ages to help with childcare, community projects, wildlife conservation, and much more throughout Africa and Asia. And with awards such as the Shell LiveWire Grand Idea Award, Thailand Green Excellence Award, and Special Recognition from the United Nations in Sri Lanka, Plan My Gap Year prides itself on transparency, safety (all volunteer programs are personally vetted by PMGY staff), and quality placements abroad.

Volunteer in Sri Lanka

If you’re ready for a tropical adventure, check out PMGY’s  Sri Lanka volunteer program . Along with many other volunteer opportunities, PMGY is offering a Sri Lanka Volunteer and Adventure Experience for travelers aged 16 and 17. For two weeks, you’ll explore and volunteer, with highlights including visiting an elephant orphanage, watching leopards at Yala National Park, relaxing on the beach, and volunteering on four different projects focusing on construction, English teaching, elephants, and sea turtles. This program costs $750, plus a $249 registration fee, and includes housing and meals, in-country transport, volunteer handbook, 24-hour UK-based support, and much more.  Learn more here!

School Trip Abroad

If you’re looking for a customized experience, Plan My Gap Year offers  school trips  where you can volunteer, explore, and immerse yourself in a new culture. These all-inclusive, tailored trips are customized to your group’s needs, with a UK expedition leader ensuring that your trip is safe, stress-free, and fun. With trips organized throughout Africa and Asia, there’s so much variety to the types of volunteer projects you can take on, or adventure opportunities you can try out.  Learn more about PMGY’s school trips here!

Volunteer in Bali with Wildlife

Join other young volunteers with Plan My Gap Year at the  Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre , and help care for animals that were victims of poachers and traffickers. Each day, you’ll provide upkeep for the center and care for endangered animals, enriching their lives—and your own—in the process. Tasks include feeding, enclosure cleaning, general maintenance, and spending time interacting with the animals, helping them to socialize to ward off depression and poor behavior. There are nearly 40 types of animals at the center, so there’s no shortage of meaningful ways that you can help out as a volunteer. Fees for this program begin at $270 for one week.  Learn more here!

Teach English in Fiji

With more than 750 primary schools in the  island nation of Fiji , there’s a great need for assistance from volunteers – especially those who speak English. Volunteer in Suva with Plan My Gap Year and help to teach and care for children! They will be excited to learn about your culture and life experiences – as a volunteer, you will assist a local teacher with their day-to-day classes, and may even have the opportunity to take the lead in lessons. Younger students enjoy a relaxed and informal teaching experience, so this is a wonderful chance for volunteers who want to be creative and incorporate singing, storytelling, and dance in the classroom. Stay for two weeks or longer, with an affordable starting fee of $390.  Learn more about volunteering in Fiji here!

Love Volunteers

With more than 20,000 travelers placed on impactful trips abroad since 2009 (and 4,000 in the past year!),  Love Volunteers  is one of the fastest growing volunteer organizations that you can be a part of right now. All of Love Volunteers’ trips are affordably-priced, starting from $259 for your first week abroad, depending on where you travel. Love Volunteers has placements in 34 countries worldwide, with more than 120 different projects. Some popular destinations include:

• Asia:  Nepal ,  Thailand ,  Bali
• Latin America:  Peru ,  Costa Rica ,  Ecuador
• Africa:  South Africa ,  Kenya ,  Zambia ,  Tanzania

While most of Love Volunteers’ programs ask that you be 18 or older to sign up, volunteers aged 17 can travel with consent from a parent, while those under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Education Support in Nepal

Located in  Kathmandu , this wonderful program aims to provide quality education to some of Nepal’s poorest children. As a volunteer, you will work alongside local teachers to help with subjects such as English, math, science, history, and geography – you also will play games and read to the children in English to help them develop their language abilities for future education and career prospects. You are invited to stay for one week or longer on this volunteer program, and outside of your work, you will have time to explore Nepal’s colorful capital city as well as its beautiful and historic monuments and temples.  Learn more and sign up here!

Elephant Village Program in Thailand

Based in  Surin , this volunteer trip gives you the opportunity to care for elephants that have been abused and neglected – first used for logging work, which was outlawed in the 1980s, and later used as tourist attractions to help pay for their care. Through Love Volunteers, you can work with an initiative that takes the elephants out of the cities and cares for them in their natural habitats, while also providing livelihood support for their mahouts. This program starts from one week –  click here to learn more!

Turtle Conservation in Costa Rica

If you want to visit the beach and do good, check out Love Volunteers’  turtle conservation program in Costa Rica ! Through your efforts, you can help save sea turtles from extinction by assisting in hatcheries, helping with conservation projects at the beach, releasing hatchlings into the sea, and patrolling hatching grounds to protect eggs from poachers and predators. This project starts from one week –  learn more and apply here!

Education Support in Kenya

On this program, you will travel to  Mombasa, Kenya  to provide classroom support in a primary school or high school, special needs residential school, or a language school for adults. While volunteers with experience and qualifications in education and special needs support generally are placed in the language school and special needs school, those volunteers who are younger or do not have a background in education can find lots of opportunity to work with the younger children through sports, games, and other interactive activities. This program starts from one week –  learn more and apply here!

A Broader View Volunteers Corp (ABV)

Founded in 2007,  A Broader View  has placed  >24,000  volunteers on meaningful adventures worldwide. This US-based  nonprofit organization  currently hosts 245 different projects for individuals, groups, and students ( high school and college ) in 25 countries throughout Latin America, Asia, and Africa.

With more than $3 million donated to impactful programs since A Broader View’s founding, this organization truly aims to make a positive impact through its partnerships and volunteer placements. Depending on where you’d like to travel and for how long you’d like to stay, volunteer placements start from $820 for your first week – with flexible start dates – and may be tax-deductible for travelers from the United States.

Student Trip

A Broader View offers 10- to 28-day  trips for students  to visit one of 15 different countries throughout Latin America, Asia, and Africa. These trips combine service learning and leadership, allowing you to learn about global development issues, such as poverty or public health, as well as solutions being put forth within the communities you’ll visit.

Through these programs, students and faculty will have the opportunity to develop a curriculum that fits your educational needs, with hands-on volunteering and adventures such as rafting, tours, and hiking incorporated into the trip. 10-day experiences start from $1,400 per student, and include a custom-designed itinerary and curriculum, housing and meals, in-country transport, adventure activities, presentations, in-country support, academic credit opportunities, and more. Learn more and sign up for a student trip at:  http://student-trip.abroaderview.org

Costa Rica: Sea Turtle Conservation

Through this program, you’re invited to the  Pacific coast of Costa Rica  to volunteer for sea turtle protection. As a volunteer, you will be patrolling the beaches at night to look for nesting sea turtles, collecting eggs as they’re laid and moving them to a nearby hatchery, counting and monitoring eggs in the hatchery, releasing baby turtles to the ocean, and much more to help preserve these endangered animals.

Through your work, you’ll help with ongoing projects being undertaken by researchers and marine biologists in Central America, and you’ll even learn a bit about marine biology and conservation along the way. This project starts from two weeks at $1,300, and is open to individual travelers and to groups. Click here to learn more and to sign up:  www.abroaderview.org/programs/sea-turtle-conservation/costa-rica-pacific-volunteer

Tanzania: Dance Program

On this project, you are invited to  Arusha, Tanzania  to develop dance workshops for local schools and orphanages. Dance is just one of the many amazing aspects of the primary education system and culture that you’ll learn about in Tanzania, and you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to volunteer with children, learn about their culture and dances, and teach them about your culture and background as well. You’re invited to stay for one week or longer, starting at $850. This is a truly unforgettable experience, and if you want to have fun, immerse yourself in an African culture, and volunteer with kids, click here:  https://www.abroaderview.org/programs/dance/tanzania-dance-projects

Cross-Cultural Solutions

Since 1995,  Cross-Cultural Solutions  has provided  high school volunteering programs , international internships,  gap year  experiences, and volunteer trips in Costa Rica, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, India, Morocco, Peru, Tanzania, and Thailand. Volunteer programs can range from child development, to girls’ and women’s empowerment, to global health. So far, nearly 35,000 travelers have trusted Cross-Cultural Solutions (with a 99% approval rating from past participants), which has some of the highest standards of safety and well-being in the volunteer abroad industry. As an organization dedicated to quality programming, CCS received  Special Consultative Status with the United Nations  in 2003, has received GreatNonprofits’ top award for the third year in a row, and is accredited by the American Gap Year Association.

Volunteer in Ghana

Cross-Cultural Solutions offers a wonderful opportunity for high school students to  volunteer in Ghana . Through this program, you can choose to focus on education, technology, health, sports leadership, or even embark on a global health internship. Placements last one week, two weeks, or one month, and you’ll volunteer alongside other travelers all aged 14 to 18.  Click here to learn more about summer volunteering opportunities in Ghana!

Volunteer in India

Based in the  Himalayas , this program is a great way to immerse yourself in Indian culture while volunteering on an educational or sports leadership project. If you’re interested in the education program, you will have the chance to provide hands-on tutoring and instruction to local students, or make improvements to libraries and classrooms. If Cross-Cultural Solutions’ sports volunteering program catches your interest, you’ll be able to coordinate sports activities for youth while also building and making improvements to recreational equipment and infrastructure.  Learn more here!

Volunteer in Morocco

Another volunteer opportunity perfect for teens and high school students through Cross-Cultural Solutions is their  Morocco program , where you will be able to travel for one, two, or four weeks to this beautiful country and help with education, health, technology, or sports leadership activities. CCS also offers a four-week global health internship this summer, where you will have the chance to learn from local health care professionals, visit medical facilities, and much more.  Learn more and sign up here!

Raleigh International

For more than 30 years,  Raleigh International  has offered trips for high school students to visit and volunteer in Nepal, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Tanzania. Projects focus on clean water and hygiene, sustainable use of natural resources, and community building, and each of Raleigh’s programs incorporates a youth leadership and development component as a way to engage young volunteers and their counterparts in the countries that they serve. With a commitment to quality and support, Raleigh International helped design and currently holds the BS8848 Safety Standard for organizing and managing visits, fieldwork, expeditions, and adventurous activities outside of the UK – and so far, 400,000 young volunteers have traveled with Raleigh International, with another 800 expected to sign up this year. If you’re looking for a great volunteer experience for your summer or spring break, or a gap year before enrolling in college, Raleigh International offers a wide variety of volunteer experiences with a real impact led by multicultural and multinational teams.

Tanzania Expedition

If you’re looking for a summer break adventure, check out Raleigh International’s  Tanzania expedition . On this trip, you will be able to combine volunteering and adventure by helping out with community development and environmental projects, plus picking up wilderness survival skills on a trek to the Southern Highlands.  Volunteer work  can include planting trees, improving access to clean water, and helping with hygiene awareness events. You also will be able to see animals up close on a trip to Ruaha National Park on this expedition, which lasts five, seven, or 10 weeks.  Learn more and sign up here!

Global Leadership Adventures (GLA)

One excellent organization that’s perfect for teen and high school travelers is  Global Leadership Adventures , which is the  top-ranked teen-focused volunteer program  on Volunteer Forever. Founded in 2004, Global Leadership Adventures combines community service, hands-on learning, and adventure travel.

As a youth-centered organization, GLA places a great emphasis on  safety and support , which you can see outlined in its  five-point safety system . And as a forerunner in international service learning, Global Leadership Adventures has a database of nearly 2,000 references willing to vouch for the impact of their programs – in fact, the organization’s co-founder was  recognized by President Obama  for making a positive impact in Africa.  Click here  to learn more about under-18s projects with Global Leadership Adventures!

Dominican Republic: Spring Break Service Adventure

If you want to do more with your spring break, check out Global Leadership Adventures’ Spring Break Adventure in the Dominican Republic. Through this program, you’ll volunteer to build schools and community centers, and help with reforestation or water filtration projects, plus have the chance to visit beaches, explore freshwater lagoons and underwater caverns, and much more. This eight-day program costs $1,899, and 2017 dates are now open for registration –  click here to learn more .

What Volunteers Say: Review from Elizabeth

Last summer, in between my Sophomore and Junior year of high school, I had the pleasure of traveling to the Dominican Republic.  I would strongly recommend this trip to anyone looking to do global community service. The schools that we made (using bottles for insulation) truly made an impact on me because I felt like I was doing something for a new community! Additionally, we did fun activities like zip lining and snorkeling. This trip did an awesome job combining fun with service. Additionally, there was not one time during the trip where I felt unsafe. We were always provided with clean water, knowledgeable mentors, and safe transportation. Finally, this program established people who were culturally-aware. My eyes were opened to a new culture and I was enriched with new experiences. Again,  I would recommend this to anyone who is thinking about doing on a service trip!

Reach Out Volunteers

Since 2010,  Reach Out Volunteers  has provided culturally rich and high-impact volunteer programs for travelers who want to make a difference in impoverished communities, help endangered wildlife, and much more. To date, about 3,500 travelers have signed up with Reach Out Volunteers, with an additional 1,000 expected to embark on trips in 2017.

Reach Out Volunteers also prides itself on the sustainability of its programs, with all projects initiated by the communities in which they work, and all programs employing local, skilled laborers to work alongside their volunteers. For teens and high school students 17 years old and younger, Reach Out Volunteers invites you to sign up if you have written permission from a parent or guardian or if you’re traveling with a legal guardian.

Depending on the program you sign up for, Reach Out Volunteers’ program fees start from $1,599 for a two-week trip, and includes airport pick-up and drop-off, ground transport, food, housing, excursions and activities, project materials, educational materials, and much more.

South Africa Volunteering Adventure

If you’re looking for a unique summer vacation, Reach Out Volunteers is offering a  month-long South Africa Volunteering Adventure  where you’ll be able to volunteer at a local daycare center and at wildlife sanctuaries and parks. Through this program, you’ll help teachers with their lessons and help renovate classrooms at a day care center, and later have the chance to learn about animal conservation, tracking, and much more at sanctuaries and preserves for cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, and other game. In addition to your volunteer work, you’ll be able to go surfing, explore the St. Lucia UNESCO World Heritage Site, go shopping in local markets, visit a Zulu village, and much more. Click here to learn more and to sign up:  www.rovolunteers.com/africa-volunteer-programs.htm

Volunteer Machu Picchu Inca Trail

If you’re looking for a shorter placement, check out Reach Out Volunteers’  volunteer program in Peru , where you’ll have the wonderful opportunity to visit Cusco, Machu Picchu, and much more. As a volunteer, you’ll work with a village to build greenhouses, which help to extend the short growing season to add to the community’s food supply – a vital service for families whose children are at risk of malnutrition. During your stay in Peru, you’ll take cooking lessons, go zip lining, hike Machu Picchu, and lots more. To apply, please visit:  https://www.rovolunteers.com/Volunteer-Machu-Picchu-Inca-Trail.htm

Volunteering Journeys

Volunteering Journeys  got its start in 2014, and is growing quickly, offering volunteer abroad placements in India, Thailand, Nepal, Cambodia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Bali.

Volunteering Journeys’ founding story informs and inspires the work carried out by its team and travelers every day: after quitting her job as an investment banker, founder Ridhi Patel took time off in 2009 to volunteer for three months in South Africa. This life-changing experience encouraged her to build a volunteer organization in her home country of India, where she could bring together travelers who wanted to explore the world, give back to their host communities, and learn more about themselves along the way.

Volunteering Journeys prides itself on personal attention and tailored experiences for all participants, as well as high-quality service and placements that actively engage scientists, doctors, teachers, and community leaders. Right now, Volunteering Journeys is offering many different opportunities for teen and high school travelers, including family volunteer holidays,  summer volunteer programs , and teen-friendly placements on many different projects in Africa and Asia.

Construction Projects for Group Volunteering

One excellent volunteer opportunity for volunteer work for teens is Volunteering Journeys’  construction program  in India, Nepal, or Thailand. The purpose of these programs is to build better homes and lives for communities in need, whether it’s through rebuilding houses, churches, schools, day care centers, or other structures. From two-week house building programs in Thailand, to earthquake reconstruction in Nepal, to school construction and renovation in India, there’s lots of opportunity for you to make a positive impact no matter your age. Learn more and sign up  here !

Sea Turtle Conservation in Sri Lanka

Another volunteer opportunity you should definitely check out is Volunteering Journeys’  sea turtle program in Sri Lanka . This program focuses on rehabilitating endangered sea turtles, including green turtles, hawksbills, loggerheads, leatherbacks, and the olive ridley turtle. Perfect for volunteers of all ages, this program invites you to work alongside marine biologists and conservationists to collect data and help with vital research through marine life monitoring, safeguarding eggs, beach cleanup, and releasing hatchlings into the wild.  Learn more and sign up here!

Winter, Spring, and Summer Volunteering in India

If you’re planning a winter, spring, or summer break abroad, Volunteering Journeys’  winter and summer volunteering program in India  should be on your radar. For three weeks, you will have the chance to pursue an incredible adventure where you’ll visit amazing sites in India, volunteer with a community in need, and learn about the cultures of this country. You’ll spend your first two weeks in Kerala, where you’ll volunteer in one of three different programs: English teaching, working with disabled children, or supporting a women’s empowerment initiative, all of which contribute to life skills development and self-confidence for the people you’ll work with. During your third week, you’ll go on a Golden Triangle tour of North India, where you will visit Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, including a stop at the Taj Mahal, and much more.  Click here to learn more and to sign up!

Global Volunteers

Founded in 1984,  Global Volunteers  invites travelers – including high school and college groups – to embark on volunteer vacations and teach abroad placements in 17 countries around the world. Global Volunteers truly makes a difference in the 200 communities in which they work: in 1999, they were granted  Special Consultative Status with the United Nations , and in 2008 formalized  a relationship with UNICEF .

Global Volunteers also emphasizes safety on all of their projects, with CPR and first aid certification provided to team leaders, emergency medical evacuation insurance provided for volunteers serving outside of the US, and emergency contact available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Depending on where you’d like to go, Global Volunteers’ placements start from $1,045 for your first week abroad.

Costa Rica Volunteer Program

On this program, Global Volunteers invites school groups to take on  service-learning  and volunteer projects in  Costa Rica . Through a partnership with the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, your group can help with maintenance and development of the reserve while learning about organic farming, rural tourism, conservation, and gastronomy. During your weekends and free time, you’ll be able to take Spanish lessons, learn Costa Rican history and culture, go horseback riding, and much more. Learn more and sign up at:  https://globalvolunteers.org/costa-rica

Greece Volunteer Program

If you want to visit Europe, check out Global Volunteers’  Greece volunteer program , where your high school or college group can teach conversational English to local students, encourage young adults with special needs, or support children who have been displaced from their homes.

Along with your volunteer experience, you’ll be able to participate in local Cretan dance and music, learn raki making, and truly immerse yourself in the culture while learning some basic Greek language, learning about customs, and much more. Volunteer placements in Greece are customizable to your group’s schedule and goals so you can gain the most from your experience. Learn more and sign up at:  https://globalvolunteers.org/greece

Cuba Volunteer Program

Global Volunteers also is offering an amazing opportunity to volunteer in  Cuba , where you’ll travel to Havana, Ciego de Ávila, or Sancti Spíritus to work alongside community partners to practice conversational English, tend community gardens, improve local buildings, help women with sewing and other crafts, and much more. You’re invited to sign up for one week or longer (starting at $2,595), and in between project work, you’ll have the chance to engage in people-to-people cultural and educational exchange activities.

St. Lucia Volunteer Program

On Global Volunteers’  St. Lucia volunteer program , you’ll support children who are facing challenges in nutrition, healthcare, and education. In partnership with local schools and community organizations, you’ll provide maternal and infant support, present childcare workshops to parents, help with early childhood education, teach health and hygiene lessons, assist with building repair and maintenance projects, tend school gardens, and much more. This project starts from one week at $2,695, with family and group opportunities available as well.

Other Programs to Consider

International Student Volunteers  (ISV):  ISV also has a five-star rating at Volunteer Forever, with sustainable development and conservation programs offered worldwide. University students may be eligible for academic credit for participating as well. Learn more and read reviews  here .

Beyond Student Travel :  With programs in China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Fiji, Panama, and Zambia, Beyond Student Travel programs a wide variety of youth volunteer abroad projects for high school students wanting to volunteer and see the world. Most projects last two to three weeks, and incorporate service learning, career building, language learning, and leadership. Click  here  to learn more.

Walking Tree Travel :  Walking Tree offers internships, alternative breaks, and other volunteer projects in English teaching, environment,  community development , and lots more in a dozen countries. With a mission to inspire individuals to become global citizens and take an interest in the world around them, Walking Tree Travel provides trips geared towards volunteer opportunities for high school students that actively engage travelers within their host communities. Click  here  to read more.

Envoys :  With volunteer and study opportunities for middle- and high-schoolers, Envoys blends education, research, and international travel for a one-of-a-kind learning experience. Projects range from environment, to ecotourism, to  community development , and beyond. Learn more about Envoys  here .

Amizade:  Amizade offers service learning, volunteer, and skills-based programs worldwide for teens and young adults. While Amizade’s service learning projects are available only at the university level, volunteer opportunities for high school students, alternative spring breaks, and other volunteer opportunities are available to teens. Learn more  here .

As you can see, there are tons of great volunteer abroad opportunities outside of the Peace Corps (which requires participants to be 18 and older) that are  available fto younger volunteers—they’re an excellent way for your teen to learn more about the world, build incredibly useful skills, and work with a community program that’s tackling local issues, all while providing an adventure of a lifetime. And as with any volunteer abroad project (perhaps even more so in this case), it’s very important to take your time and do your homework to find an organization that has appropriate placements for students who can contribute the very best they can to a great cause.

Big heart, but little wallet?

Check out our list of  affordable volunteer organizations .

P.S. If you’re still looking for a volunteer opportunity, check out our list of  best volunteer abroad programs  and recommended volunteer projects in  Africa ,  Central America , and  Thailand . You can also read about 7  Great Medical and Veterinary Volunteer Abroad Projects ,  10 Dental Volunteer Abroad Program and Medical Mission Tips for Pre Dental Students , and  nursing volunteer abroad projects for students and nurse professionals . Or, if medical volunteer projects aren’t for you, be sure to read about our  sports and coaching volunteer abroad ,  wildlife conservation and veterinary  abroad,  teach abroad , and  intern abroad  programs. Lastly, if you’re under 18, you may be interested in a  teen volunteer abroad  program from one of our many great partners.

Sarah Vandenberg · Director of Partnerships

Sarah has worked as a researcher and consultant in the volunteer travel world since 2004. With a BA from the George Washington University and background working with both public and private sector volunteer organizations, she enjoys exploring the world and collecting and sharing stories, trends, and advice with travelers who want to volunteer, intern, or teach abroad.

• Follow Sarah Vandenberg:

Related guidebooks

• Prof. Development

Summer Study Abroad Programs for High School and College Students

Volunteer Abroad for Community Service Credit: High School & College Travel

Top Volunteering Holidays Around the World

Learn About Gap Year Programs

Traveller type

• Solo Travelers
• First Time Travelers
• Female Travelers
• Senior Citizens
• Family & Group
• Teen & High School
• Volunteer Abroad
• Intern Abroad
• Teach Abroad
• Study Abroad
• Professional Development

To stay in touch! Enter your email address to get travel recommendations and be the first to know about our $500-$1,000 travel scholarships!

Thanks for signing up!

Your first email will arrive shortly

Don't let age hold you back from making a difference

Structured and safe projects for under 18's

Under 18 programmes

Under 18 but still want to volunteer abroad? Well look no further! With The Mighty Roar, your age won’t stand in the way. We have over 20 projects for 17 year olds in some of our most popular destinations.

You will get to travel to some of the most amazing parts of the world, where you will get to explore a new and exciting country with your new found friends. Whether you are r eleasing baby sea turtles in Sri Lanka or looking after children in Bali, your time will be spent helping on rewarding and fun programmes.

All of the programmes include extensive pre-departure information and support, as well as assistance with all aspects of your trip from our UK team. Our dedicated in-country co-ordinators are there to provide you with local support throughout your placement and depending on which programme you choose, also your airport pickup, orientation, accommodation and meals.

Pre-departure buddy lists so you can talk with everyone else travelling at the same time

Ideal for first time and / or solo travellers

24/7 UK and in-country telephone numbers for you & your parents / guardians

Comprehensive pre-departure support and assistance with all aspects of your trip

No previous experience or qualifications needed

Choose the right programme for you...

Simply select your preferred option to show the best programmes available to you.

Under 18 volunteering programmes

Sri lanka sea turtle conservation.

• Duration 1-24 Weeks
• Accompanied age 5+
• Minimum age 17+
• Start dates 1st & 3rd Saturday

More information

Bali Marine Conservation

• Start dates 1st & 3rd Sunday

Tanzania Childcare Volunteers

• Duration 1-24 weeks

Sri Lanka Childcare Volunteers

Ghana childcare volunteers, india childcare volunteers, bali childcare volunteers, sri lanka travel & volunteer experience.

• Duration 2-4 Weeks
• Accompanied age 12+
• Selected start dates between Jan & Sept

Tanzania Dog Sanctuary

Bali diving conservation.

• Duration 1-8 Weeks
• Accompanied age 10+
• Start dates 1st & 3rd Thursday

Vietnam Childcare Volunteers

Bali travel & volunteer experience, vietnam teaching volunteers, bali teaching volunteers, india teaching volunteers, tanzania teaching volunteers, sri lanka teaching volunteers, india medical experience, montenegro dolphin research.

• Duration 4-12 Weeks
• 1st of every month

India Travel & Volunteer Experience

• Selected start dates in July & August

Madagascar Sea Turtle Conservation

• Duration 1-12 Weeks
• Start dates 1st & 3rd Monday

Ghana Medical Experience

Sri lanka street dog rescue, ghana teaching volunteers, costa rica travel & volunteer experience, sri lanka elephant conservation.

• Start dates Every Monday

Zimbabwe Elephant & Rhino Sanctuary

India special needs childcare volunteers, sri lanka medical experience, ghana mental health & psychology experience, madagascar marine conservation, sri lanka mental health & psychology experience, zimbabwe horse riding & wildlife conservation.

• Duration 1-2 Weeks
• Selected Mondays throughout the year

Discover a new you. Experiential study abroad with Arcos.

9 Amazing Teenage Volunteer Summer Programs Abroad

by Kendall Dick March 20, 2024

GoAbroad has the scoop on summer volunteer programs for teens, and here's the tea.

You’re probably here because you are equally dumbfounded and in awe of your teenager's desire to do something productive and beautiful with their life this summer. To help you navigate the hows and what’s and why’s of shipping your high schooler overseas, we’ve compiled not only a list of eight amazing summer volunteer programs for high school students abroad but also some advice and words of encouragement as you figure out where in the world you can send your kid off to volunteer abroad under 18 and stay safe!

Your kid cute, but let’s be real, they’re on their phone toooooo much. Too much!

Why your teen should spend their summer giving back 

Summer volunteer programs for high school students abroad span the gamut. Teens can work with large nonprofits, in community development projects lead by small enterprises, on farms, in the water. But why should you let your baby boy or girl run off on teenage volunteer summer programs—especially abroad?

It will spiff up their college apps. 

A nice bullet point about teen summer volunteer experiences will surely give admissions officers something to be impressed about (even more so when they took their community service internationally). Their experience might even trigger the start to a captivating essay. Bonus: They may also have picked up a little foreign language to add to their application. 

To disconnect. 

Wi-Fi is limited during summer volunteer opportunities for teens, so volunteers can spend their downtime connecting with real human beings and being where they are. The only time they will be spending on their phone will be to call you and let you know that they are more than okay (these are safe volunteer abroad programs, after all!). And what better souvenir can you give your kid than the chance to realize their dependence on their phone is—dare we say—a tad unhealthy? 

They will grow up. 

When you volunteer abroad under 18, high school students are responsible for more than just themselves. This fosters intense tolerance, independence, confidence, self-resilience, and adaptability. Getting them in the door at a summer job or internship instead may seem de rigueur for teens to hold their own in a competitive economy—but what they really need is to hone their soft skills, like how to be caring and compassionate, before moving on to those technical skills. Plus, summer volunteer programs for teens often do a great job of teaching both hard and soft skills, depending on their project.

[ Use MyGoAbroad to bookmark & compare programs ]

Instill a sense of wonder in your teen from a young age

Is summer volunteering for high school students safe? 

It takes some pre-planning, but there are many safe volunteer abroad programs out there. Students under 18 years old can gain immense benefits from the process of managing their health and safety while abroad. Volunteering abroad may even keep high school students much safer than if they were to stay at home partying all summer. If wanting to participate in summer community service programs for high school students is the biggest act of rebellion coming from your teenager—count your lucky stars!

Steps to ensure safety in teenage volunteer summer programs

You should absolutely vet organizations independently before you consider sending your kid abroad on one of their programs. You can do this easily with the help of not only Google but also your direct interactions with the organization itself. Don’t be afraid to ask hard-hitting questions of your program advisor . These can range from their emergency protocols should something horrible happen while traveling (rare, but of course it’s best to be prepared!) to how often they encourage students to keep in touch with parents.

You might also request contact information for past participants’ parents. They have no motivation to tell you anything but the truth regarding their teen’s experience through their summer volunteer opportunities abroad. Again, continue to ask questions, and don’t settle until you’ve heard the answers that tick off all of your safety boxes.

GoAbroad’s verification system can also help you sort the bad apples and good apples. No one wants to get scammed, and lucky for you, most organizations are legit (unless they hired a bunch of teens to go on fake programs and post their favorite photos online?!). We are on your team when it comes to ensuring your kid’s safety as a teen summer volunteer.

[ More Comforting Words on High School Abroad Health & Safety Concerns ]

One piece of advice for hyper-connected parents.

We know you’re not quite at the stage of the trip planning process where you’re actually discussing life while your kid is abroad, but it bears repeating, even early on, that you should establish reasonable expectations for your communication while your kid is on summer volunteer programs for high school students abroad. Every time you talk to your kid, you’re taking them away from the present and pulling them towards home. This can be counterproductive to their immersion experience or learning potential.

Be conscious about your expectations and how it is contributing to your kid’s overall international summer volunteer experience.

[ Get Personalized Program Recommendations to Volunteer Abroad ]

Summer volunteer programs for teens abroad could be the start of something great.

9 summer volunteer programs for high school students abroad 

Alright! We now know why we should support our child’s interest in teenage volunteer summer programs abroad, and are feeling at least a little calmer about the safety-factor. Now we’ve arrived to the good stuff—the go-to list of organizations that not only run international volunteer programs for teens, but run GREAT international volunteer programs for teens. 

1. Global Vision International (GVI)

These summer volunteer programs for high school students abroad tackle critical local and global issues through education and training programs on sustainable development projects around the world. GVI programs even run in in partnership with acclaimed international partners like Save The Children, WWF, The Red Cross, and PADI.

• Popular countries: South Africa, Laos, Thailand
• Popular projects: Teaching, Wildlife Research, Marine Conservation 
• Read GVI reviews  

2. Arcos Journeys Abroad

High school students can combine an authentic immersion experience and leadership skills that will set them up for an advantage in college admissions and future job opportunities. These summer adventure programs abroad focus on developing lifelong skills while gaining global perspectives and learning another language. 

• Popular countries: Spain, Costa Rica, Mexico 
• Popular projects: Public Works Projects, Wilderness 
• Read Arcos Journeys Abroad reviews  

3. Global Works - Travel with Purpose

Full cultural immersion is the best way for high school students to gain skills needed to thrive in an increasingly multicultural, interconnected, and competitive world. These high school summer volunteer programs abroad promote the type of intercultural understanding, mutual respect, and social responsibility necessary for future success.

• Popular countries: Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Spain, Ecuador, France, Fiji, Peru, Dominican Republic 
• Popular projects: Community Service, Disaster Relief, Conservation, Construction
• Read Global Works - Travel with Purpose reviews

4. Projects Abroad

High school students can volunteer abroad in incredibly meaningful and worthwhile projects in developing (and safe!) countries with topnotch in-country support from program staff to ensure a safe and fun experience.

• Popular countries: Fiji, Philippines, Belize 
• Popular projects: Teaching Sports, Conservation, Public Health Projects 
• Read Projects Abroad reviews

5. The Experiment in International Living

These high school summer volunteer abroad programs equip students not only with essential cultural skills, but also with a deeper awareness of and sensitivity to global issues. Students will walk away with invaluable new skills, connections, awareness, and knowledge that help them to thrive in diverse environments.

• Popular countries: Argentina, Nicaragua, Costa Rica 
• Popular projects: Sustainability, Community Service and Development 
• Read The Experiment in International Living reviews  

6. Volunteering Journeys

Authentic high school summer volunteer abroad experiences unfold when students are immersed in local living with the communities they are serving. These programs focus on building relationships, showing the value of personal growth, and seeing how strong real life learning comes through volunteering abroad in high school.

• Popular countries: Nepal, India, Sri Lanka 
• Popular projects: Sports Coaching, Sea Turtle Conservation 
• Read Volunteering Journeys reviews  

7. Academic Programs International

These affordable, high-quality summer volunteer abroad programs for students are designed to offer students meaningful travel opportunities that allow them to transform their lives while transforming the lives of others.

• Popular countries: Costa Rica, Ecuador 
• Popular projects: Conservation, Farming, Sustainability 
• Read Academic Programs International reviews

8. Broadreach

Responsible, hands-on volunteer abroad experience helps students gain a new perspective on the world and learn more about themselves. These programs also help students earn relevant certifications (scuba, sailing, first aid, etc.) as hard proof (and another impressive line on their resume) of their achievements.

• Popular countries: Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Bahamas 
• Popular projects: Marine Conservation, Community Service and Development 
• Read Broadreach reviews

IVHQ is a heavy-hitter in the world of teenage volunteer opportunities abroad, with destinations spanning from Madagascar, Bali, Sri Lanka, Peru, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Ecuador, Laos, the Philippines, Vietnam, and even Portugal. So whether you picture yourself racking up community service hours in Europe, Latin America, Asia, or Africa, IVHQ is bound to have a program that's right for you.

• Popular countries: Madagascar, Guatemala
• Popular projects: Turtle Conservation, Construction, Renovation, Child Development
• Read IVHQ reviews

[ Browse Other Summer Volunteer Programs for Teens Abroad ]

The world is their oyster when it comes to teenage volunteer summer programs!

Now what? Next steps towards summer volunteering for high school students 

When you and your teenager are ready to talk logistics, check out these helpful resources to get the ball rolling:

Finding summer volunteer programs for teens:

• GoAbroad Online Advisor —Get 5+ recommended programs based on your expressed interests and preferences
• MyGoAbroad —Hook your kid up with a “MyG” account so they can bookmark and compare teenage volunteer summer programs abroad more easily

Advice for summer volunteering for high school students:

These great articles are must-reads for your teen—

• 12 Reasons to Volunteer Abroad in High School
• What Do You Get Out of Volunteering Abroad
• First Time Volunteers Abroad eBook

Teenagers desperately want to connect deeply and engage meaningfully with the world and high school summer volunteer abroad programs are the perfect way for them to do so. It may seem scary at first and you may think the world is going to eat your teenager for breakfast, but resist the temptation to hold them back. See how they shine. You will definitely be left having a #proudparentmoment.

Find More Ways to Become a Teen Summer Volunteer

Want to Get Matched with Programs?

Use MyGoAbroad to Save & Compare Programs!

Get to a hospital at HOME. Global transport & security benefits!

Related Articles

10 best high school volunteer abroad programs (this year), a parent's guide to volunteering abroad in high school, everything you need to volunteer abroad under 18, 12 reasons to do high school volunteer work abroad, how to get pre med experience while in high school, 8 ways to study abroad in germany during high school, popular searches, recommended programs.

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

Arcos Journeys Abroad

GoBeyond Student Travel

For Travelers

Travel resources, for partners.

© Copyright 1998 - 2024 GoAbroad.com ®

• Study Abroad
• Volunteer Abroad
• Intern Abroad
• Teach Abroad
• TEFL Courses
• Degrees Abroad
• High School Abroad
• Language Schools
• Adventure Travel
• Jobs Abroad
• Online Study Abroad
• Online Volunteer Programs
• Online Internships
• Online Language Courses
• Online Teaching Jobs
• Online Jobs
• Online TEFL Courses
• Online Degree Programs

Call us on:  (+1) 619 320 2424

Request Info

Volunteering for Teens: High School Specials

Hassle-free overseas volunteer trips for teenagers

Make your summer one to remember!

As a teen volunteer abroad, you can travel, make a difference, and meet people from around the world! Our teen volunteer abroad programs are tailor-made for 15 to 18-year-olds.

On our volunteer opportunities for teens, you can expect : 

• A fully-supervised program from arrival to departure.
• Support from our staff who help everyone settle in, even if it’s your first time abroad.
• The company of other teen volunteers who you’ll get to know through projects, cultural activities, and excursions.
• Fixed start and end dates. You’ll follow a set itinerary, offering a structure that suits school students.
• A certificate of completion and reference letter on request.

Our High School Special volunteer projects provide experiential education while making a positive impact in communities.

You could help children learn through play, conduct research on a safari, or gain medical work experience in hospitals.

Our most popular High School Special projects include :

• Conservation in Peru
• Medicine in Nepal
• Conservation in the Galapagos
• Medicine in Peru
• Childcare in Ghana
• Medicine in Argentina

On all our youth volunteering opportunities, you'll learn by doing. Let us help you find your perfect volunteering opportunity for high school students.

Take inspiration from other young volunteers and interns

View High School Special testimonials >

Want to gain academic credit while working towards a Level 3 Diploma? Check out our International Volunteering Diploma to find out how this exciting course fits perfectly with our High School Special programs.

Choose a High School Special

1- 3 of 36 Projects

Medical Internship in Peru for Teenagers

• Price: $3,175 USD for 2 weeks
• Extra Weeks: $600 USD
• Start Date: Summer/Winter Break
• Minimum Duration: 2 weeks
• Ages: 15-18

Medical Internship for High School Students in Tanzania

Conservation Work and Volunteer in Ecuador

• Price: $3,775 USD for 2 weeks
• Extra Weeks: $700 USD

What are High School Specials?

Our High School Specials are volunteer abroad trips for teenagers. We’ve tailor-made these trips for groups of 15 to 18-year-olds. They come with a set itinerary, giving structure to help you make the most of your experience.

What makes High School Specials perfect for teenage volunteers?

• They run during the school holidays
• They last 2-4 weeks, giving you enough time to make a difference
• They offer a mix of pre-planned activities and independent travel
• You’ll work with a group of young volunteers, forming long-lasting friendships

By volunteering abroad as a teenager, you can expect to : 

• Leave a sustainable positive impact on local communities. 
• Meet and work on your project alongside teens from around the world.
• Enjoy the constant support of Projects Abroad staff.
• Join organized trips and social activities.

On a personal level, you will : 

• Safely step out of your comfort zone
• Engage with a group of diverse people from around the world
• Develop soft skills like communication, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork
• Gain a deeper understanding of global issues

Want a more flexible and independent experience? Take a look at our Flexi Trips for anyone over 16.

My time in Peru, even if short, was very sweet and left me memories that I will always remember! I went alone, something which I was scared about at the beginning, but actually turned out to be the best option and really helped me with my confidence. On my program, I had the chance to meet some really wonderful people, who I still talk to this day. - Jordana B, Childcare & Community High School Special in Peru

Read more: The impact of high school volunteers >

What are the benefits of volunteering overseas as a teenager?

Our trips exist to help you make the most of your time volunteering abroad.

All our teenage volunteers enjoy :

• The security of traveling with a trusted organization with decades of experience.
• Working with in-country staff who know the local community well.
• Developing confidence, skills, and friendships.
• A unique experience for university and job applications.
• Learning about other cultures and the challenges faced overseas.

Summer volunteer programs for high school students

Summer is the busiest time of the year for us. Book a place ahead of time to make the most of your summer holiday.

When schools close for the summer, you can pack your bags, hop on a plane, and travel overseas.

Our High School Specials take place over fixed dates throughout the summer months of June, July, and August. We also have winter dates in December and January.

Whichever project you choose, expect to :

• Meet and work with young people your age
• Live with a local host family or in shared accommodation
• Take part in fun, worthwhile activities at your placement Join cultural activities with your group and our staff
• Have support from our staff 24/7 during your trip

Join one of our volunteer opportunities for young people and discover what you’re capable of!

Want to join a volunteer abroad trip for teens?

Contact us to get started!

Fields marked with * are compulsory!

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Talk to our friendly Project Experts today

to start planning your project

Not quite what you're looking for?

Take a look at the following pages where you'll find other types of trips:

Flexible Trips & Volunteer Projects

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

Team Trips: Bringing People from Different Countries Together

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

Volunteer Abroad for over 50s

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

Projects Abroad Language Courses

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

Spring Break Programs for College Students

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

Study Abroad

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

Medical Programs for Pre-Med Students

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

Our accreditations

• Apply to GIVE
• All Trips, Packages & Pricing
• All Trip Dates
• Southeast Asia (Thailand I Laos)
• USA: Hawaii
• USA: Pacific Northwest
• WILD (WFA) Course
• What’s Included

Trips for Teens (16-18)

• Young Adults (Age 18+)
• Trips for Adults (40+)
• Educators & Cohorts
• Hosted Trips
• Earn Academic Credit
• Our Mission
• What Sets Us Apart
• Our Projects
• Our Reviews
• GIVE Foundation
• How It Works
• What’s Included
• Travel Details
• Extending Your Trip
• Worry-Free Bookings
• Fundraising & Payment Plans
• GIVE Gift Cards
• Reviews (Volunteer & Parent)
• GIVE Threads Clothing
• Global Citizenship
• GIVE Groups
• Become a GIVE Ambassador
• Start a Student Group
• Your GIVE Profile

Volunteer Trips for Teens

• Who Can Travel
• Teens (Ages 16-18)
• Young Adults (18+)
• Adult Travelers (40+)
• Families & Friends

GIVE Trips for Teenagers

(ages 16-18).

GIVE’s responsible travel and volunteer programs for teenagers take you off the beaten path to explore rural communities and truly connect with the community and their fellow volunteers through cultural immersion, sustainable volunteer projects, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Along the way, you will gain a greater understanding of yourself, the world you live in, and the people you share it with. Explore the web pages below to learn more about our volunteer programs for teens!

Details >

Sea Turtle Conservation Ambassador

Volunteer and save turtles, make a difference and meet one of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Join us in Pacific Costa Rica! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="1" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Whale Shark Conservation & Diving

Feel the thrill of swimming with a whale shark, the excitement of spearing the invasive lionfish, and the satisfaction in helping protect coral reefs. 🐋 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="2" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Rhino & Elephant Conservation

Volunteer in Africa and help secure the future of the endangered black rhino and elephant. Experience daily life on a 10,000 acre family-run private conservancy. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="3" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Bali Wildlife Rescue & Environmental Volunteers

Help within a number of conservation and rehabilitation efforts whilst participating on the Bali wildlife program in traditional Tabanan. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="4" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sri Lanka Turtle Conservation Volunteers

Help protect and rehabilitate at-risk sea turtles whilst also taking part in community development projects. Experience a different side of Sri Lanka. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="5" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Invasive Species Management

Make a difference by removing lionfish, an invasive species decimating reef ecosystems. Learn to dive while culling lionfish. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="6" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Marine Conservation - Research Assistant

Conduct Manta Ray research, Reef Check surveys, and assist with community projects as a Barefoot Conservation Research Assistant! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="7" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Bali Childcare Volunteers

Stay in the rice bowl of Bali in the traditional town of Tabanan and give that most precious commodity of all, your time, to local children eager to learn! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="8" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Eco Nature and Coastal Conservation

Eco Volunteering in Wildlife & Marine Conservation. Uncover the whole big picture of our Eco-System for a better understanding of Nature & learn how to make a difference! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="9" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Bali English Teaching Volunteers

Teach English in this amazing location set amongst rice paddies and local culture. Invest your time in Bali’s children and ensure their future is bright! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="10" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Reef Conservation on a Caribbean Island

Hands-on ocean conservation on a picture perfect Caribbean island located on the Belize Barrier Reef in the Sapodilla Marine Reserve Park in Belize. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="11" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Turtle Conservation Assistance

Help protect the endangered sea turtles of Indonesia. Contribute to the collecting of turtle population data, collecting eggs, cleaning tanks, and monitoring nests. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="12" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Animal Welfare Helper

Volunteer at animal shelters and give your love and care to animals that have been abandoned or abused by their owners and are looking for a new home 🐕. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="13" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Whales, Sharks and Penguins Conservation

Experience not only Whale, Dolphin, Shark and Penguin research and monitoring but also community education, environmental issues, ecology and ecotourism landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="14" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Save Turtles and Sloths

Patrol along a wonderful beach and help to guard the nests of endangered marine turtles. You will also help monitor sloths in their natural habitat. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="15" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Tanzania Childcare Volunteers

Leave a lasting impression on the lives of some of Tanzania’s most disadvantaged children by assisting with childcare and education in a childcare center. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="16" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Force-free Equine Sanctuary Assistant

Join our team! Care for horses, improve the sanctuary, and promote equine welfare, all while honing your force-free horsemanship skills. 🐴😊 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="17" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Animal Sanctuary Helper

Help out at an animal and bird sanctuary giving hands-on assistance with a variety of exotic and indigenous animals that are in captivity and non-releasable landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="18" 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="19" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Amigos de las Américas (AMIGOS) Teen Summer Volunteer Programs in Latin America AMIGOS operates in nine countries throughout the Americas — in Costa Rica, Panamá, and Ecuador, Peru and Paraguay. With AMIGOS, you'll be immersed in another culture, collaborate with your host community on a development project, and work side by side with local youth meanwhile building your own leadership skills. AMIGOS summer projects range from 4-9 weeks and are open to students from 16-25 with basic Spanish proficiency. AMIGOS programs focus on youth leadership in the fields of public health, children's rights, environmental sustainability, creative expression, social enterprise and sports and fitness.

Earthwatch Institute Teen Expeditions Teens ages 15-18 can connect with leading scientists, learn new skills, and appreciate the power they have to change the planet through tailored volunteer projects.

GVI Teen Volunteering Abroad Traveling abroad is a great way for young adults to explore, learn about global citizenship, service learning and gain a better insight into the world and different cultures. GVI offers world-class, action-packed volunteering opportunities for teens aged 15 to 17 years olds. Our Under 18’s programs are specially designed, intended to fully immerse and challenge students in a variety of different ways, providing ample opportunities for learning. Programs focus on wildlife conservation, marine conservation, construction, sports or animal care. Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Visit our website for further details.

GoBeyond Student Travel Global Service & Travel Adventures For High School Students Backed by over 40 years of experience in the field of experiential education, GoBeyond Student Travel offers quality international travel, outdoor adventure, and community service programs for teenagers during the summer. Destinations include Australia, the British Virgin Islands, China, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Iceland, India, Peru, Spain and Sri Lanka.

Greenheart Travel Teen Volunteering in Costa Rica Immerse yourself in a vibrant culture and improve your Spanish through a service project in a wildlife rescue center in the heart of Costa Rica’s rainforest! Learn new skills while you experience a new world and help those in need. Volunteers live with host families and assist with locally run volunteer projects in children's programs, education and the environment. Placements include room and board with carefully screened, welcoming host families. Our friendly and experienced staff in Costa Rica provide support and assistance throughout the program. Programs are open to participants ages 16+. Greenheart Travel is non profit founded in 1985 and run by friendly and seasoned travel enthusiasts who regularly participate in their own cultural exchanges.

International Biosphere Stewardship Program Teen Summer Volunteer Service Camp in Bali, Indonesia Set in Bali, Indonesia, the program inspires students to be intelligent stewards of our earth’s biosphere. Students are introduced to the beauty of the Bali Barat National Park, hiking in the mangrove forest and monsoon forest and snorkeling on the coral reefs, learning about their value and the challenges they face. Students are introduced to the farm and the city and the concept of human activity as an integral part of the biosphere. Students take part in hands on volunteer service work with the projects of the Biosphere Foundation. Half the participants are Balinese teens and there is plenty of opportunity for cultural exchange.

Smithsonian Student Adventures For 170 years, the Smithsonian Institution has inspired generations through its steadfast dedication to the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.” In a globalized world, it is more important than ever to promote the Smithsonian values of Discovery, Creativity, Excellence, Diversity, Integrity, and Service. This is why the Smithsonian, in collaboration with Walking Tree Travel, a premier service-focused student travel provider, is pleased to offer a new collection of dynamic programs for high school students. Smithsonian offers summer service programs in Argentina, Australia, China, Costa Rica, Ecuador, France, Italy, Germany, Guatemala, Japan, Morocco, Peru, Senegal, Spain, and Thailand. See their excellent website for details.

The Road Less Traveled Summer Community Service, Language, and Adventure Travel Programs for Middle and High School Students Life-changing education travel that is relevant, collaborative, and responsible. Students connect with others different from themselves while exploring humanity and the world. We offer domestic and international programs that focus on community service, language, environmental, animal and marine conservation, cultural immersion, and wilderness adventure. Our aim is to cultivate leadership, openness, sensitivity and a sense of social awareness and environmental activism.

A variety of programs are offered throughout the summer as well as Gap Year, Family and Custom programs. Each program offers its activities such as Animal Conservation, Backpacking, Biking, Black History Education, Boat Exploration, Community Service, Cooking Lessons, Cultural Immersion, Environmental Service, Hiking, Hot Springs, Kayaking, Language Lessons, Marine Biology, Meditation Classes, Organic Farming, Rainforest Hiking, Rock Climbing, Safari, PADI Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Surfing, Swimming, Teaching English, Whitewater Rafting and Ziplining. The Road Less Traveled offers travel to a variety of destinations (see the website for specifics), including in Canada, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Iceland, Azore Islands (Portugal), Thailand, Vietnam, Tanzania, as well as many themed trips located within the United States of America.

Volunteers for Peace Teen Volunteer Projects Worldwide Short-term programs, also called volunteer work camps, welcome teens in countries worldwide, including special projects for those under 18. Placement fee starts at $500 (over 18) and $650 (under 18) for a 2-week project.

Volunteering Programs Abroad for 15 - 16 Year Olds

If you are aged 15 - 16 or know someone who is they might like to do something different and volunteer abroad.

There are lots of volunteer work programs overseas specifically designed for 15 and 16 year olds where you can volunteer on a meaningful holiday and enjoy one of the most amazing experiences of your life.

How to Apply

On our website you can find a range of volunteer organisations who offer short and long term volunteer programs in countries all around the world.

Hundreds of 15 and 16 year olds join group trips like these and volunteer abroad, this is a really worthwhile experience where you will be able to help overseas whilst gaining valuable personal and professional experience for your CV / resume.

You do not need to worry about not having done anything like this before, or have any experience as the organisations we work with will provide full training and health / safety advice.

These trips are very safe, all organisations have professional staff with years of experience. Durations can depend on what project and what destination you pick, some programs like 1-2 weeks whilst others are longer.

You can join programs like this all year round, summer volunteering trips for 15 and 16 year olds are really popular where you can spend time during the school holidays going abroad to do something like this. You will get a totally new and different experience unlike anything you have done before.

Don't worry you won't be volunteering alone! This is one of the most common questions we get asked but there will always be other people in your age group and from your home country with you.

A lot of volunteer organisations have years of experience placing students and young people on volunteering trips abroad and they will be able to care of everything from flights, placements, accommodation and transport.

These types of trips are great if you are seriously thinking about a long term gap year overseas or you just like traveling and seeing new places. Its also a great way to escape your comfort zone and do something to make all your friends and family jealous. 

Projects are amazing voluntary work experience placements which offer you an exciting opportunity to help others whilst traveling and seeing new places. This is something a lot more meaningful than just sitting on a beach in Spain.

Places You Can Go

Places you volunteer include Europe , Africa , Asia and Latin America . You will see a new country possible unlike anywhere you have ever been before and have the most rewarding and eye opening experience of your life.

You can choose your project and destination and there is a lot of choice, from helping wildlife in Africa to teaching in Asia or working on conservation programs in Central or South America the world really is your oyster. 

Popular destinations include China , Costa Rica , Ethiopia , India , Mexico , Peru , South Africa and Thailand but there are more volunteer trips in other countries.

Trips can include working on archaeology programs, coaching sports like football - a hot favourite, working within developing communities,  volunteer helping wildlife and conservation or joining internship style programs with law, human rights and medical programs. 

Best Companies

These are the volunteer organisations we recommend applying with:

• Duration: 2 weeks
• 25+ years experience
• +30,000 participants

So you’re looking for an exciting adventure that empowers you to make a difference in the world? You’re in safe hands with GVI's award-winning range of teen volunteer programs. Designed for young people who are keen on challenging themselves, you’ll contribute to ethical on-the-ground conservation initiatives.

Choose between projects in Costa Rica, Mexico, Tenerife, South Africa, Greece, Thailand and Nepal.

Participants don’t need any previous experience, just 100% commitment, and it’s a great way to make a difference while developing a fabulous skill. 

Volunteers are provided with an extensive pre-departure support service, airport pickup, orientation, meals, accommodation, project transportation and local support throughout their placement.

Eligibility

Don't worry if you are planning on apply by yourself to do something like this, you won't be alone, you will be placed on a group program with more people from your age group.

This is a great way to meet new people and make friends, some people travel from all around the world to participate on programs like this. You will have have experienced staff with you incase of any problems and full orientation and training will be provided. If you are currently aged 14 you will need to wait for your next birthday to join an experience.

“The experience has made me more confident and I have had the opportunity to meet other teenagers from all around the world. Furthermore, it has made more independent as I travelled alone and the whole experience will be useful in my future university application (as I plan to be an international student).” -  Thomas, UK

Due to age restrictions you will usually need to pay a fee to participate on these programs, this generally includes placements, flights, transfers, accommodation, meals and in country support. The cost really depends on where you choose to go and how long you participate for.

Other Option s

• You could also apply to volunteer as part of a group e.g. an organsed school trip
• Volunteer with your family

If you are slightly older you might like to view our  volunteer programs abroad for 17 year olds  page. You can also view all opportunities on our  volunteer abroad  directory or search  gap year programs .

Related Opportunities

Canada horse ranch.

• Fronteering
• North America, Canada
• 4 weeks to 4 months
• 1750 to 3000+ $ Dollars (US)

Coral Reef Restoration

• Bali Dyslexia Foundation
• 2 weeks to 6 months
• 1000 to 3000+ £ Pound (UK)

Divemaster Internship in Indonesia

• Gili Shark Conservation
• Gili Islands Indonesia
• 2 weeks to 3 months
• 2000 to 3000+ $ Dollars (US)

Galapagos Island Hopping Volunteer Experience

• LEAD Adventures South America
• Galapagos Islands
• 1 week to 3 weeks
• 1250 to 2000 £ Pound (UK)

Mexico Marine Conservation Internship

• Puerto Morelos
• 4 weeks to 3 months
• 3000+ to 3000+ £ Pound (UK)

Teach English in Public Schools in Naples

• International Napoli Network
• 3 weeks to 3 months
• 100 to 1500 € Euro

The Elephant Freedom Project in Sri Lanka

• The Elephant Freedom Project
• Between Colombo and Kandy
• < 1 week to 2 weeks
• 100 to 750 $ Dollars (US)

Volunteer & Learn Arabic In Palestine

• The Excellence Center in Palestine
• 1 week to 3 months
• 100 to 2500 $ Dollars (US)

Related Articles

Volunteering programs abroad for 17 year olds.

There are lots of volunteer work abroad programs for 17 year old's where you can travel abroad and help communities, the...

Volunteer Abroad in 2024

Find the best volunteering programs in 100+ countries worldwide. Search short and long term projects incuding structu...

Family Volunteer Projects Abroad

Volunteering abroad with your family can be an amazing life changing experience. If you researching a trip to volunte...

Volunteer Programs for Teens & Under 18s

Aged under 18? Would you like to volunteer abroad? There are short term programs for teenagers worldwide.

Peace Corps Alternatives

If you have always wanted to spend time volunteering abroad but don't have the time for a 2 year placement with Peace...

Volunteer in Europe

Are you looking to do something rewarding? Apply to volunteer in Europe! There are programs throughout the continent...

Gap Year World

Volunteering Abroad for Teenagers & Under 18’s

Aged 15, 16 or 17? Keen to volunteer abroad? There are lots of volunteering programs around the world open to teenagers and under 18’s where you can help animals, communities and the environment. Search opportunities and apply for an amazing experience today.

Best Volunteering Projects for Under 18 Year Olds

Wildlife Conservation Volunteering in South Africa

• 2 weeks • Age: 15-17 • £2,645

Dolphin & Whale Conservation in the Canary Islands

• 2 weeks • Age: 15-17 • £2,595

Sea Turtle Conservation & Adventure in Thailand

• 2 weeks • Age: 15-17 • £2,245

PADI Diving and Marine Conservation in Mexico

Sea Turtle And Marine Conservation in Greece

• 2 weeks • Age: 15-17 • From £1,500

Rainforest and Wildlife Conservation in Costa Rica

• 2 weeks • Age: 15-17 • £2,895

Himalaya Trek and Community Development in Nepal

Featured companies.

Over 30,000 teens have volunteered abroad with GVI and helped make a sustainable difference while enhancing personal and professional experience. Choose from award winning life changing volunteer projects around the world.

Popular Projects

Here are some of the most popular projects you can join:

• Animals • Building • Childcare • Community • Environment • Medical • Teaching

How to Apply

Browse our featured trips around the world and see which destination and project appeals to you. For under 18’s there are fewer opportunities but you can still choose between so many fantastic programs and locations.

Most trips are structured and you will need to pay a fee to participate. This generally includes placements, flights, transfers, training, accommodation, meals and in-country staff and support.

What Age Do I Need to Be to Volunteer? Each volunteering organisation is different and some offer special volunteer programmes that are ideally suited to first time volunteers who will be 15, 16 or 17 on arrival when they travel abroad.

Age limits can be lowered on some programs due to the following components which are offered:

• Group volunteering activities (rather than individual placements). • Over 10 years experience of supporting under 18s. • Shared volunteer housing altogether (rather than private family homestays). • Door to door transfers on arrival. • Experienced in-country team who regularly manage large school and sixth form groups. • Full support organising weekend tours and free time activities.

For example, if you are planning to study health related courses later such as nursing, social care or medicine then medical volunteering would be a great option where you can try out basic first aid perhaps for the first time.

Can Under 16s Volunteer? Yes under 16 year olds can volunteer abroad if accompanied. Some families with very young children participant, whilst schools and other companies arrange group trips! Some organisations accept a growing number of families every year and have exciting opportunities available.

Will I Need Permission to Volunteer Under 18? If you will be volunteering under 18 you may need permission or formal authorisation to board your flight. Some countries may also require some kind of permission or formal authorisation.

The minimum requirement if travelling independently will be usually be written permission from parents or guardians. It is a good idea to check with the airline, the embassy and your volunteer sending organisation.

For example, if you are in the UK and searching on google for ‘under 18s travel to south africa’. You will find detailed information from a variety of sites including the British Government, the Post Office and British Airways and South African Home Affairs on the new change in requirements.

Why Volunteer Abroad When Under 18?

Here are some top reasons to volunteer abroad if you are under 18:

1. It Gives You a Time Advantage Volunteering can give you a massive advantage over young people a year or two older than you. For example, many 18 year old volunteers, unless they are taking a gap year will have already applied for University when they volunteer so it will be too late to make use of it on their personal statements.

Many first time volunteers at 16 or 17 years old often make similar second and third trips abroad, exponentially increasing their confidence, team working and organisation skills. The effect this has on the way you perform at job or course interviews and assessments later on cannot be underestimated.

2. Because it Fits in With Exams Most under 18s based in the UK will be volunteering in the summer at either 16 or 17 years old. Sixteen year olds can travel at the end of their GCSE exams, which although there are a lot of them to study for, they are probably not game changers at this point.

So if you get a grade lower here or there because you were dreaming about the children’s smiles or beaches in Africa, this will probably not mean you have to change career plans. Volunteers heading out at 17 years old after their first year of A levels or BTECs know they have another year to concentrate before the important exams.

3. Great Cure for Shyness Volunteering under 18 can help shake off any shyness or nerves and it’s not always for the obvious reasons. Increased confidence often comes from an unexpected source.

In-country teams have often remarked that for the shyest volunteer in the team, it will be a new arrival that makes the shy volunteer realise quite how far they have progressed.

Faced with a newbie asking them where everything is in the accommodation, how to use the shower, or ask for a bottle of water at the local shop, he or she will start to feel like they are the go-to person. This can skyrocket anyone’s confidence.

4. To Try Out New Things Most volunteer programmes offer a range of activities to try out. It is always a good idea to do more than one thing on your programme if available. A teaching volunteer in a school may realise they prefer teaching the infants after teaching all age groups or discover a natural aptitude for painting and decorating that they helped with after classes. Trying out different things may inspire you to follow up a new career path when you get back home.

5. To Make New Friends Volunteering brings everyone together in one place and going through the same experience for the first time. You can be pretty certain that for 80% of your volunteer group this is their first time they are doing anything like this.

Typically this shared experience is quite unique from most back at home. Many first year university students can struggle with others they connect with who might be studying different courses or living in another hall of residence. Staying in touch after your trip is so much easier with FB these days. Do make sure you keep in touch, many volunteers like to organise annual reunions.

6. Great Preparation for University Many first year University students can struggle with being away from home for the first time. When and where to eat? How to manage your laundry (or not)? Making new friends? By volunteering a long way from home, you will have already been through this on your project in far more adventurous circumstances. University life will feel like a walk in the park.

7. Less Pressure Many younger volunteers will hear other volunteers at some point saying, ‘wow, you’re so young, I wish I had had the courage or knowledge to do this when I was your age’. This can be quite a nice feeling in itself and boost your confidence.

Some younger volunteers find they experience less pressure being younger which helped them to relax and go with the flow where older volunteers may feel the need to compete to perform and achieve the best results by nature of their age, background or interests. If everyone knows how old you are you may find they’ll be more than happy to show you round and take you under their wing.

8. Something to Talk About Because you will be ahead of everyone else by starting younger, you will have a lot more to say when you and your friends get together. There is sure to be one or more funny stories involving toilets, insects, mosquito nets and countless other challenges you overcame.

9. To Gain a Reference It is a good idea to keep a journal of what you do each day. Highlight work you achieved or challenges you overcame rather than a more personal diary. It is a good idea to take some photos or video footage which highlights you in action.

At the end of your trip, ask one of the senior members of your local team to provide a written reference for you which includes your main areas of work and achievements and don’t forget to make a note of their contact details. Your sending organisation should also be able to provide you with a reference for a future job or study application but check with them first.

10. It Demonstrates that You Mean Business If you are under 18 when you volunteer you know you are in the minority and that it is something special an unique. It shows to family and friends you are prepared to push yourself that bit further. Providing you come back with more than just safari and beach pictures you may find people around you take your personal ambitions more seriously and may help you to achieve future goals more actively from now on.

Advice for Parents

The prospect of sending your child on a volunteer trip overseas to the developing world can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. These trips are very safe and thousands of youngsters from around the world participate every year. Please contact us if need any help or advice and we will be happy to advise which programs might suit you best.

Similar Opportunities

Work Experience Abroad

Summer Volunteer Programs

Gap Year Jobs

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

Based on Zip Code Change

• Shop the Red Cross Store

Youth Opportunities

• Share via Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on LinkedIn

Volunteer Opportunities for Teens

Urgent Need for Volunteers!

The Red Cross welcomes volunteers in all of our service areas. However, at this time, there are a few roles that need to be filled most urgently. If you are open to exploring those opportunities, please click the button below. 

Join Us to Learn, Teach, Experience and Contribute

Red Cross youth volunteers learn valuable lessons in how to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, mobilize communities and create positive change. They hone their leadership skills, make new friends, and explore new interests, all in a friendly, encouraging and age-appropriate environment with visible results. Volunteering today can be the start of a lifetime of generous service to good causes.

Youth Volunteers Share the Spirit of Service with Their Schools & Communities

If you believe in standing up for things you believe in, volunteering with the Red Cross can help you multiply your impact by connecting you with people who share your commitment. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

• Red Cross Club Member – High school and college students can join or start a Red Cross Club, doing service and educational projects to benefit school and community. 
• College Student Internship – Current college students can intern in areas relevant to their studies, building professional skills & gaining real world work experience.  

Note: the volunteer positions available to you will vary depending on your location and the needs of your local community .

• Click the button below to complete our online application. It takes less than 10 minutes!
• A member of our Volunteer Services team will get in touch. Taking the time for a personal conversation enables us to match you with a role that will be both meaningful and enjoyable.
• We’ll provide all necessary training to ensure you can be successful in your volunteer role.  

Related Links

Learn More About Red Cross Disaster Services

Become a Volunteer

Volunteer with Disaster Services

Volunteer with Service to the Armed Forces

Volunteer with Red Cross National Headquarters

Volunteer with Red Cross Blood Services

Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.

• EN - English
• PT - Portuguese
• ES - Spanish
• How it works
• Become a Host
• Download the app

Top Destinations

United States

• United Kingdom

What type of experience are you looking for?

• Non-Profit School
• Permaculture project
• Eco Village
• Holistic Center
• Guest House
• How Worldpackers works

Learn from the most experienced travelers of the community

Traveling with worldpackers, planning and budgeting for travel, make a living while traveling as a lifestyle, travel with worldpackers.

• Using Worldpackers
• Work exchange
• Social impact

Plan your trip

• Women traveling
• Budget travel
• Solo travel
• Language learning
• Travel tips
• Get inspired
• Digital nomads
• Travel jobs
• Personal development
• Responsible travel
• Connect with nature

Top destinations

• South America
• Central America
• North America
• More destinations
• WP Life WP Life
• Exclusive discounts Discounts

Travel as a volunteer

Have safe and life-changing experiences by collaborating with verified hosts from our community, and make a positive impact on the world!

Why try volunteer travel?

• Make a real, positive impact in the world
• Collaborate, learn, and exchange experiences with hosts
• Get immersed in the local culture and practice languages
• Develop new personal and professional skills
• Connect with locals and international travelers
• Travel to new places affordably by saving money on lodging

What you offer

Each host will require your help for a certain number of hours per week.

Welcoming guests

• Housekeeping
• Party Promoter

Teaching & Sharing

• Social Work
• Animal Care
• Teaching Languages
• Teaching Sports

Hands-on activities

• Building & Repairing
• Painting & Decorating

Marketing & Communication

• Social Media
• Content Writer
• Video Making
• Photography
• Web Developer

Kitchen & Bar

• Kitchen Hand

Cultural activities

What's the average hours requested by the worldpackers hosts, the maximum hours allowed is 32 hours per week, what you get.

In exchange for your help, you get accommodation and other benefits unique to each host.

And, obviously, new friends, learning, and connections of course!

Really often

May include

What isn’t included

Who can volunteer.

Who are our hosts

They’re friendly people who open their doors for travelers to have a collaborative exchange. Worldpackers hosts are open to exchanging learning experiences, and foster an atmosphere of connection through mutual, responsible, sustainable help.

What thousands of Worldpackers are saying about it

Conjepta and her family are wonderful hosts. They were very welcoming and friendly. The accommodations are nice and they made us feel at home.

I think Dreamsea was the best place to stay easing into solo traveling! The community and atmosphere was so welcoming and really helped to feel not anole despite arrive alone. You get soo much considering how little you pay for your stay! 10/10 recommend.

This was a great first experience for me with worldpackers, the people were very welcoming. They all had just gone through a fire and everything was a bit in the air, I think the many goal for me was to bring a little bit of orden and peace in daily tasks in the midst of the caos.

Wanna learn even more?

Watch all videos of the Academy certificate and learn everything about how the volunteering experience works, the responsibilities of all parties involved and how to make the most of it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i travel with a friend or partner.

Sure! To do so, you need to choose the Worldpackers couples/friends plan , which allows you to apply to and confirm only two-person trips during the plan’s validity.

Can I travel as a family and/or with pets?

If you’d like to take children, minors, or animals with you, you first of all have to ask your host about the possibility. Hosts may not want to accept these travel companions because of unsuitable living situations, so a good conversation to get you on the same page will clear everything up for you.

What do I do in terms of a passport and visa?

You are responsible for all of the documents needed to enter another country and arrive at your destination, be they visas, documentation, insurance, or vaccinations, for example. As every country has different requirements, it’s a good idea to check your destination country’s embassy website . Learn more about Visas and Immigration .

Does Worldpackers offer any financial assistance?

No. Worldpackers is a community based on win-win, collaborative relationships, where exchanges are opportunities for learning, development, and cultural exchange. For our volunteer experiences, you can easily see what is and is not included on each position’s page: accommodation, meals, trips, lessons, etc. All other related logistics are the sole responsibility of the traveler.

Can hosts charge supplemental fees?

Social and ecological hosts may indeed charge a supplemental fee. This is because they are nonprofits, and can ask for a contribution from travelers during their volunteer period. To learn which hosts request these fees, all you have to do is look through a position’s description, where you will find the cost in question, if any.

Are tickets included?

Worldpackers is a platform that connects hosts and travelers to foster collaborative experiences, exclusively. All other related logistics are the sole responsibility of the traveler, such as airfare, local transportation, passports, visas, insurance, etc.

Become a member!

Have life-changing experiences. Develop new skills. Make a positive impact.

• FIND A PROJECT
• SOUTH AFRICA
• SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA
• CONSERVATION
• WHO VOLUNTEERS
• GAP & STUDENTS
• WORKING HOLIDAYS

Blogs & News

Special Under 18 Turtle trip to Greece

We are delighted to launch our  Turtle and Marine Conservation Under 18 trip to Greece ! 

The trip is a 1 week hands-on educational experience for 16-17 year olds which focuses on the conservation of sea turtles and coastal ecosystems. This is an amazing opportunity to monitor turtle nests and survey turtles and their habitats. The trip is to the stunning Greek island of Kefalonia which has sandy beaches, friendly locals and warm crystal blue waters of the Ionian Sea.

This is a special fully supported group trip which includes Pod Volunteer leaders on site, so it’s ideal for our younger volunteers. The trip has been developed to allows participants to gain many life skills and return home with a deeper understanding of marine environment and the pressures humans place on the natural world.  

How long is it and when does it take place?

The trip is 1 week long and starts on 17 July 2024.

Can I join for my DofE Gold Residential award? 

This placement has been approved by the DofE as meeting the requirements for the Residential section of the Gold Award and is a ideal project to help become a global citizen. 

Pod Volunteer is an Approved Activity Provider for The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE). 

I don’t have any experience with research or conservation, can I still join? 

You don’t need any conservation or research experience to join, as you will be taught everything you need to know when you arrive. You will attend conservation presentations where the team will explain the research, how your work will help and how you can collect the data.

While you are on the island you’ll learn about turtle physiology, behaviours, habitat, the threats that they face as a species and what you can do to help protect them.

As part of the research, the team will snorkel to survey the seagrass meadows so you will need to be able to swim and you should try snorkelling out before you join. If you haven’t snorkelled before you can either head to the beach or your local swimming pool to give it a try, it’s incredible to explore the underwater world! 

Can I join with friends? 

Absolutely, this is a lovely project to join with friends plus a great opportunity to make new friends from all around the world! 

I’m not from the UK, can I still join?

Yes, any nationality can join this project! 

Head over to our Under 18 Turtle and Marine Conservation page to find out all about the project and how you can join -  www.podvolunteer.org/projects/turtle-and-marine-conservation-u18-trip

AWARDS AND ACCREDITATIONS

Woman allegedly kidnapped ex-boyfriend‘s kids, threatened to keep them unless he returned her belongings

NASHVILLE, Tenn. ( WSMV/ Gray News) - A 30-year-old woman allegedly kidnapped her ex-boyfriend’s kids and threatened to leave them in a cold car if he didn’t give her stuff back.

According to the arrest affidavit, Jenny Men reportedly picked up her ex’s kids from the bus, then sent a text to their dad saying that he would get them back after he returned her belongings.

WSMV reported that police spoke with Men’s brother, who called her and demanded she speak with police about what she was doing. However, she hung up the phone.

Police said Men then messaged the kid’s father again, saying she was taking the children on a “road trip,” and would “leave the kids cold in the car.”

Officers told WSMV that they were able to locate Men’s location by pinging her phone and found her traveling on the interstate.

Authorities then called Men and convinced her to bring the children back.

The 30-year-old told officers she never made the alleged threats to the children’s father, but the phone number matched the messages sent to his phone, officers shared.

Men was arrested and charged with aggravated kidnapping of a person under the age of 13.

Her bond was set at $100,000.

Copyright 2024 WSMV via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Search warrants show Jamey Noel, wife charged New Chapel $300k for vacations, $50k for cigars

Teacher faces termination after calling in sick for 2 days to attend a concert in Nashville, district says

Several changes are coming to Texas Roadhouse this year, report says

Woman who walked away from her home near Shelbyville found dead Wednesday

Neighbors upset with former MLB player building baseball field in backyard

Latest news.

At least 11 hurt when bus carrying college students blows tire on Mississippi highway

Lawsuit naming Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs as co-defendant alleges his son sexually assaulted woman on yacht

Make Ends Meet: Navigating economic stress

Drivers urged not to stop in the middle of road when the eclipse happens

Where have you been? Dog missing since summer found more than 2,000 miles away

Call us on:  01273 007 230

Request Info

Volunteering for Teens: High School Specials

Hassle-free overseas volunteer trips for teenagers

Make your summer one to remember!

As a teen volunteer abroad, you can travel, make a difference, and meet people from around the world! Our teen volunteer abroad programmes are tailor-made for 15 to 18-year-olds.

On our volunteer opportunities for teens, you can expect : 

• A fully-supervised programme from arrival to departure.
• Support from our staff who help everyone settle in, even if it’s your first time abroad.
• The company of other teen volunteers who you’ll get to know through projects, cultural activities, and excursions.
• Fixed start and end dates. You’ll follow a set itinerary, offering a structure that suits school students.
• A certificate of completion and reference letter on request.

Our High School Special volunteer projects provide experiential education while making a positive impact in communities.

You could help children learn through play, conduct research on a safari, or gain medical work experience in hospitals.

Our most popular High School Special projects include :

• Conservation in Thailand
• Childcare in Cambodia
• Medicine in Nepal
• Conservation in Botswana
• Childcare in Kenya
• Medicine in Ghana

On all our youth volunteering opportunities, you'll learn by doing. Let us help you find your perfect volunteering opportunity for high school students.

Take inspiration from other young volunteers and interns

View High School Special testimonials >

Are you looking to get some more UCAS points whilst gaining a Level 3 Diploma? Check out our International Volunteering Diploma to find out how this exciting course fits perfectly with our High School Special programmes.

Teenagers: Get Your Medical Internships Guide

Are you interested in Medical Internships abroad but don't know where to start? If you're a high school student, then we have the perfect resource for you!

Our Ultimate Guide to Medical Internships Abroad for Teenagers is full of useful information. It will help you take control of your future medical career. Download your free guide now!

Get your free guide >

Choose a High School Special

1- 3 of 36 Projects

Medical Internships in Nepal for Teenagers

• Price: £1,630 for 2 weeks
• Extra Weeks: £355
• Start Date: During school holidays
• Minimum Duration: 2 weeks

Rainforest Conservation in Peru for Teenagers

• Price: £1,905 for 2 weeks
• Extra Weeks: £405

Volunteering with Children in Cambodia for Teenagers

• Price: £1,580 for 2 weeks
• Extra Weeks: £330

What are High School Specials?

Our High School Specials are volunteer abroad trips for teenagers. We’ve tailor-made these trips for groups of 15 to 18-year-olds. They come with a set itinerary, giving structure to help you make the most of your experience.

What makes High School Specials perfect for teenage volunteers?

• They run during the school holidays
• They last 2-4 weeks, giving you enough time to make a difference
• They offer a mix of pre-planned activities and independent travel
• You’ll work with a group of young volunteers, forming long-lasting friendships

By volunteering abroad as a teenager, you can expect to : 

• Leave a sustainable positive impact on local communities. 
• Meet and work on your project alongside teens from around the world.
• Enjoy the constant support of Projects Abroad staff.
• Join organised trips and social activities.

On a personal level, you will : 

• Safely step out of your comfort zone
• Engage with a group of diverse people from around the world
• Develop soft skills like communication, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork
• Gain a deeper understanding of global issues

Want a more flexible and independent experience? Take a look at our Flexi Trips for anyone over 16.

My time in Peru, even if short, was very sweet and left me memories that I will always remember! I went alone, something which I was scared about at the beginning, but actually turned out to be the best option and really helped me with my confidence. On my program, I had the chance to meet some really wonderful people, who I still talk to this day. - Jordana B, Childcare & Community High School Special in Peru

Read more: The impact of high school volunteers >

What are the benefits of volunteering overseas as a teenager?

Our trips exist to help you make the most of your time volunteering abroad.

All our teenage volunteers enjoy :

• The security of travelling with a trusted organisation with decades of experience.
• Working with in-country staff who know the local community well.
• Developing confidence, skills, and friendships.
• A unique experience for university and job applications.
• Learning about other cultures and the challenges faced overseas.

Summer volunteer programmes for high school students

Summer is the busiest time of the year for us. Book a place ahead of time to make the most of your summer holiday.

When schools close for the summer, you can pack your bags, hop on a plane, and travel overseas.

Our High School Specials take place over fixed dates throughout the summer months of June, July, and August. We also have winter dates in December and January.

Whichever project you choose, expect to :

• Meet and work with young people your age
• Live with a local host family or in shared accommodation
• Take part in fun, worthwhile activities at your placement Join cultural activities with your group and our staff
• Have support from our staff 24/7 during your trip

Join one of our volunteer opportunities for young people and discover what you’re capable of!

Want to join a volunteer abroad trip for teens?

Contact us to get started!

Fields marked with * are compulsory!

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Talk to our friendly Project Experts today

to start planning your project

Not quite what you're looking for?

Take a look at the following pages where you'll find other types of trips:

Flexible Trips & Volunteer Projects

Aged 16+, wanting flexible dates, independence, and a volunteer project or internship tailored exactly to your needs

Team Trips: Bringing People from Different Countries Together

Aged 18+, wanting to join a small group of like-minded travellers to explore, engage and make a difference together

Volunteer Abroad for over 50s

Aged 50+, wanting to join a small group of like-minded travellers to give something back and learn about new cultures

Projects Abroad Language Courses

Aged 16+, wanting to learn and practise a new language by immersing yourself deeply in a community and new culture

Our accreditations

Kilvington Grammar School charged by WorkSafe over death of diabetic student Lachlan Cook on 2019 overseas trip

A Melbourne school and an adventure travel company have been charged following the death of a student on an overseas trip in 2019.

Sixteen-year-old Lachlan Cook suffered diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of type 1 diabetes, while on a school trip to Vietnam.

He died in Melbourne's Royal Children's Hospital after an emergency flight home.   

WorkSafe has charged Kilvington Grammar, a private school in Melbourne's south-east, for "failing to ensure that persons other than employees were not exposed to health and safety risk".

"WorkSafe alleges the school failed, so far as was reasonably practicable, to reduce the risk of illness or death to diabetic students on school trips," it said in a statement. 

The company that organised the trip, Wold Challenge Expeditions Pty Ltd, faces three charges of a similar nature. 

The matter will appear before the Melbourne Magistrates' Court later this month.

• X (formerly Twitter)
• Courts and Trials
• Death and Dying
• Royal Melbourne Hospital

• Moscow Tourism
• Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Bed and Breakfast
• Moscow Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Moscow
• Moscow Restaurants
• Things to Do in Moscow
• Moscow Travel Forum
• Moscow Photos
• All Moscow Hotels
• Moscow Hotel Deals
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Best SVO lounge for 8 hour layover with 7 year old son - Moscow Forum

• Europe    
• Russia    
• Central Russia    
• Moscow    

Best SVO lounge for 8 hour layover with 7 year old son

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Central Russia forums
• Moscow forum

My 7 year old son and I will have an 8 hour layover AT SVO. We arrive in Terminal D from JFK at 1200 and depart from Terminal E for Cairo at 2040. Can anyone recommend the best place to rest and or sleep for us? I saw Space lounge has sleeping rooms but not sure if they are extra. I saw the free children's rooms which would be perfect but it says they only allow kids up to age 7. My son turns 7 the day before we arrive, so not sure how strict they are about ages upon entry. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Don't know about sleeping in lounges but there is a hotel right in the terminal E: https://v-exp.ru/en/terminal-e/

Your whole layover is in daytime - are you sure you will want/be able to sleep? Maybe you should visit the city for a few hours? Yes you will need visas for that.

I do seem to recall a lounge in Terminal E - think it was Space lounge that had very small capsule type "rooms"...off to the right as you enter...(with shower room, etc)

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Train Booking Moscow to St. Peter Mar 29, 2024
• Union Pay debit card Mar 27, 2024
• Russian trying to book a hotel in Jerusalem Mar 14, 2024
• Dual Citizen Arrested in Russia Mar 12, 2024
• about clothes Feb 27, 2024
• NOTE - border crossing from Finland into Russia closed Feb 09, 2024
• Snow boots in Red Square Feb 04, 2024
• Travelling to Moscow & Murmansk with toddle in winter Feb 02, 2024
• Anyone traveling from London to Moscow this week ? Jan 27, 2024
• Booking accommodation Jan 11, 2024
• Traveling friends (Designers preferred) :) Jan 05, 2024
• Are shops and things closed during Christmas and New Week ? Dec 15, 2023
• Traveling to Eastern Russia Nov 17, 2023
• Travel to russia september 2023 tips welcome Oct 17, 2023
• Moscow to St Petersburg train or air?? 32 replies
• New Sapsan Express Train from Moscow to St Petersburg 18 replies
• New year's in moscow 8 replies
• Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour 5 replies
• How do you purchase Bolshoi Ballet tickets at a great price? 2 replies
• Select-a-room.com Are they legitimate? 3 replies
• Weather Moscow and St. petersburg in May 8 replies
• Night train to St Petersburg 3 replies
• ATM Access 12 replies
• Visa needed if on layover at Moscow Airport??????? 15 replies

Moscow Hotels and Places to Stay

• Where can I get initial answers to ANY question?