Guatemala’s population has grown rapidly over the past few decades, and migration from the country’s rural towns to larger cities has put a nationwide strain on its resources. Poverty has become more rampant, and many Guatemalans are left in poor living conditions without having their basic needs being met. The poverty rates have also created an educational crisis, leaving Guatemala with one of the lowest literacy rates in the world. Participants on this trip will be able to make a difference by helping to combat the low literacy rates through teaching English or by working with local children at a nearby library. There are also projects to improve the living conditions of the poorest citizens, by pouring cement floors in homes, working with women’s groups and setting up personal or community gardens. When not at work, volunteers will be able to explore the Guatemalan culture through Mayan flute lessons, tortilla making, attending a Mayan Fire Ceremony and by exploring the surrounding natural parks. For the more adventurous, optional day adventures are available and can include activities like horseback riding and ziplining! This eight day trip starts at $1,437 per person.
Fight Poverty in India’s ‘Pink City’
India’s “Pink City” of Jaipur is named for its bright building facades dating back to the early 1700s. The city has since become Rajasthan state’s cultural and economic hub. Unfortunately, Jaipur also hosts a large number of impoverished residents whose basic needs remain largely unmet. On this trip, volunteers will help rescued child laborers and disadvantaged children by providing support at schools and day care centers. Participants will also work to improve educational facilities by refurbishing the existing structures. All projects are focused on increasing the quality of life for Jaipur’s disadvantaged communities. During spare time, volunteers can explore Jaipur’s bazaar, take an elephant ride at the nearby Amer Fort, visit a traditional carpet factory or eat with a local family. Volunteers can look forward to enjoying the sights, sounds and tastes of India while bettering the quality of life for those in need. This one-week trip costs $1,557.
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Globe Aware
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Promote English Education in Rural Thailand
Thailand’s Nan province struggles with a lack of educational resources. Many students are children of seasonal farmworkers who lack transportation to schools and suffer from poor attendance and high dropout rates. These schools particularly need English teachers as an understanding of the language has become necessary for many jobs in Thailand. Volunteers for the “Child Education” program provide valuable language lessons while engaging students with activities to drive attendance and promote the importance of an education. This trip is run by Cross-Cultural Solutions, a group that aims to “mobilize cross-cultural impact volunteering that improves education and health opportunities for children who need it most.” The trip can last anywhere from one to four weeks and starts at $1,990.
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Uplift Local Communities in Costa Rica's Orosi Valley
Costa Rica is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. Despite its small size, it is home to around 5% of the world’s known plant and animal species. In terms of sustainability, the nation is a global leader in renewable energy production; it generates more than 99% of its electricity from renewable sources; primarily hydropower, wind, geothermal, and solar energy. In addition, Costa Rica has implemented a range of environmental policies and initiatives to promote sustainability, including reforestation programs, wildlife protection laws, and incentives for renewable energy development. Volunteers can help contribute to these developments in the remote community of El Yaz. Although a natural paradise, villagers struggle to make ends meet. Even low paying jobs are rare. Many residents may not live in a state of poverty, but many of them have no access to hot water, cars, etc. Volunteers can help the community via English teaching at public schools, maintenance to community facilities, fitting reading glasses for the elderly, constructing chicken coops for local families, upgrading local family’s homes, and more. Projects will vary depending on the number of volunteers, which projects were finished with the prior group, what priorities have changed, weather conditions, availability of supplies, and the fitness level of the participants. Additional tasks include (but are not limited to) promoting requested perma-culture gardening to locals via demonstrations, repairing pedestrian bridges, providing environmental education and conservation, painting schools, building fences, and much more. Leisure activities include nature hikes, birdwatching, coffee tasting, visiting Orosi, visiting Guayabo, and more.
Improve Community Needs in the Heart of Ghana
Head to Ghana and lend a hand in Ho, a region still heavily dependent on international aid. Volunteers will spend a week getting to know locals along with providing community support and helping with educational needs. Community support projects range from building wells to helping ease the severity of the area’s dry seasons. Education projects include building and improving schools, spreading awareness of health education and teaching English. When not at work, enrollees can experience facets of the Ghanaian lifestyle through African dancing and drumming lessons, visits to local markets, soccer games and sessions on kente weaving. There is a planned excursion to West Africa’s largest waterfall as well as to nearby monkey sanctuaries. This is a one-week trip that costs $1,467.
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Educate With Teach For America
Want to have a direct impact on eliminating the education disparity and the cycle of poverty right here in the US? Apply to be a teacher with Teach for America. Corps members teach grades pre-K thru 12 in 46 urban and rural regions across the country. You don’t need to have studied education previously, but you will need to commit to 2 years teaching. While you teach, you will receive a full salary and health benefits. Selection is competitive, so start applying today!
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Empower Kids Through Play in Malawi
Experiencing all aspects of education and development is crucial in a well-balanced childhood. Unfortunately, many children around the world are lucky just to be taught the basic elements of schooling and are deprived of knowledge or experience in arts and sports. This program offers volunteers the chance to work with kids in Malawi, in sports, dance, music, art and creative writing. Also, it's an opportunity to experience Malawian culture, tour a village and spend one night of the trip on safari with wild elephants, monkeys, impala and on boat, crocodiles, hippos, and exotic birds. This 11 day trip costs $1,399 per person.
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Volunteer to Help Rebuild Cambodia
Cambodia has a long, violent history of war and genocide, but since the mid-90’s, peace has come to the country and is a safe place to visit. The years of war, however, left a lasting impact on the Cambodian people, leaving most of them in extreme poverty and with a countryside strewn with unexploded landmines. As a volunteer time will be spent in Siem Reap, near the famous Angkor Wat temples, helping with a variety of projects—from teaching English at the Buddhism Association School to distributing wheelchairs to the Cambodians who are left injured by the leftover mines. Upon arrival on this trip, volunteers will receive a set itinerary that will include different projects to participate in, depending on the need for volunteers at the time. During downtime, volunteers can explore the Angkor Wat temples and the floating village on the Tonle Sap Lake, or simply wander the streets of Siem Reap.
Teach English to Locals in the Philippines
Palawan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, drawing visitors from around the world to see its lush rainforests and tropical beaches. However, the Philippines also deals with systemic issues of inequality, especially when it comes to equal access to education. This volunteer project brings travelers to a local school in Palawan, where they will help teach English to primary and secondary school children. Other subjects may also include math, science and art. All teaching is supervised by a local teacher, allowing volunteers to plan out lessons while also engaging with local students. Outside of teaching, volunteers will get the chance to explore the natural wonders and culture of Palawan and the Philippines.
This volunteer travel opportunity is offered by International Volunteer HQ. One week of volunteering costs $260 per person, with the ability to extend volunteering for up to six months. No prior teaching experience is required, but it is recommended that volunteers complete a Teaching English as a Foreign Language course before departing. International Volunteer HQ focuses on providing volunteer travel opportunities around the world by partnering with local community organizations focused on long-term positive impacts.
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International Volunteer HQ
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Teach Refugees Art and Music in Jordan
Amman is not only the capital of Jordan, but is also a cultural and historical mecca of the Middle East. Yet, the city is located in a region where refugees, many of whom are children, flee to escape conflicts in neighboring countries. For those interested in teaching art and music, volunteers have the opportunity to aid in facilitating workshops for refugees, helping them make positive impacts within their own lives and communities. Volunteers will teach students art and music while focusing on themes such as diversity, gender equity and sustainability. A typical day may begin with breakfast at a local homestay followed by volunteering at a workshop, with time at the end of the day to explore the rich culture and sites of Amman.
This volunteer experience is offered by International Volunteer HQ, and costs $645 per person for one week of volunteering. International Volunteer HQ provides volunteer travel opportunities around the world by partnering with local community organizations focused on long-term positive impacts.
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Empower an Ecuadorian Community Through Volunteering
The Ecuadorian capital of Quito is known for being one of the best preserved historic cities in Latin America, with architecture influenced by European and Indigenous designs scattered among its hilly streets. Yet just beyond this vibrant Andean city lies the Valle de los Chillos , a region where extreme wealth inequality is worsened by limited access to education, health care and infrastructure. This cycle of poverty is pervasive throughout the region, but it is one that can be broken. Volunteers can work with adults and children to teach English, run educational workshops on nutrition, and work with local women to discuss empowerment while doing handicrafts. A regional community center allows residents to socialize, engage in workshops and use computers to access learning material. Whichever opportunity volunteers choose, every project is based on a commitment to improve the health, education and livelihood of this Ecuadorian community.
Volunteering opportunities are run by Manna Project International, which offers volunteers the option to enroll in short-term programs for one to two weeks, or a summer internship for five to 10 weeks. Short-term programs cost $750 per week, while summer internships cost $2,100 for a five-week position and $3,900 for a 10-week position. For those looking to be part of a long-term project, volunteers can also become a program director and work in Ecuador for more than a year. Manna Project International is a Florida-based nonprofit organization that operates programs in Ecuador and Nicaragua. Since its inception, the group has been able to help more than 3,000 community members each year.
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Lend a Hand at a Women’s Co-op in Rwanda
Rwanda may be one of Africa’s smallest nations, but there’s much to discover in this diverse East African country. Its lush and hilly landscape makes prime territory for the cultivation of tea and coffee. Those looking to create positive outcomes for local communities can volunteer with the Abagore Farming Cooperative in Rwamagana, a collective that provides women the opportunity to earn money while working in agriculture. Volunteers will help the cooperative grow crops like corn and carrots, as well as raise pigs to sell at local markets. Working with community members not only helps raise money for local women, but also combats food insecurity and helps women become more independent. On the trip, volunteers can also teach their fellow workers English, visit the Nyungwe Forest National Park, and learn about the Rwanda genocide at the Genocide Memorial in Kigali, the country’s capital.
This opportunity comes through Love Volunteers and costs $379 for a two-week experience. Volunteer opportunities last a minimum of two weeks and can be extended for up to 12. Love Volunteers is a New Zealand-based company that partners with local charities around the world to provide affordable volunteering experiences abroad.
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Lead Community Development Projects Across Ecuador
Long-term community engagement works two ways. On one hand, those looking to experience a new country and culture gain a newfound understanding of a place through helping a community develop and thrive. On the other hand, the community gains access to resources and opportunities that benefit the people living there. For those looking for this kind of experience, volunteers can become program directors to positively impact a community in Ecuador. Program directors lead events that allow volunteers to work alongside locals to help the community, such as teaching English and running workshops for youth. Directors even have the opportunity to design their own programs based on personal education and experiences. Either way, program directors will use their skills to create new opportunities and bring forward positive change.
This opportunity is made possible by Manna Project International. Program director positions range from three to 13 months in length, and cost between $700 and $1,300 per month depending on the length of the position. Short-term programs and a summer internship are also offered, which range from one to 10 weeks in length. Manna Project International is a Florida-based nonprofit that operates programs in Ecuador and Nicaragua. Since its inception, the group has been able to help more than 3,000 community members each year.
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Fundraise to Go Build a School in Panama
On this trip for high school students, travel to the mountainous Veraguas region in western Panama after fundraising to build a school. Team up with skilled construction workers in the Ngabe-Bugle Indigenous zone to build a school for local communities in need of sustainable education infrastructure. In your free time, hike the rainforest in Santa Fe National Park and visit the Panama Canal. School the World, the organization that runs these trips, commits to at least five years of community engagement in order to create schools that run independent of foreign aid. Students are expected to fundraise $3,650 through School the World’s fundraising training program, and this covers all trip costs and fees.
This trip runs throughout the year and lasts one week.
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Volunteer at a Refugee Shelter in Mexico
On this trip, volunteer at a migrant and refugee aid shelter in Guadalajara, Mexico—the second largest metropolitan area in the country. At the shelter, work closely with social workers and lawyers to support people fleeing conflict and persecution in Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador. Throughout the trip, participants will provide basic living necessities, collect data for demographic purposes, and help refugees transition between journeys. Over 25,000 migrants and refugees travel to Mexico in search of economic opportunities and safety each year, with many hoping to continue on to the United States. Volunteers will stay with a host family in Guadalajara, so this is also an opportunity for volunteers to learn about Mexican culture and practice conversational Spanish.
This volunteer program begins at $2,900 for two weeks, but volunteers are encouraged to stay longer for greater impact. All accommodations and meals are included in the cost.
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Teach Soccer to Children in Ghana
Ghana, located along the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, used to be known as the “Gold Coast” for its mineral riches. The capital of Accra is known for its vibrant beaches and markets, incredible food and its wonderful music scene. However, Ghana is still home to many disadvantaged populations and volunteering can be one way to have an impactful experience. One possible trip includes coaching soccer to help develop sports skills for teenagers from disadvantaged backgrounds. As long as you are passionate about soccer and love working with young adults, this volunteer trip is right for you.
This volunteer opportunity is located in Accra with working days from Tuesday to Saturday to incorporate weekend games. Off days can be used to explore the city, get to know other volunteers and spend time with your host family. Most work will be done in the afternoons when students can visit the soccer club after school; however, there will be meetings earlier in the day to discuss coaching strategies. The trip is a great opportunity to help students improve their health and fitness, develop motor skills, and learn life skills such as teamwork and discipline. This one-week minimum volunteering experience is run by Projects Abroad, a travel company that aims to create sustainable and impactful trips overseas. One week of volunteering costs $2,270 and volunteering is possible for as little as one week to as long as a year. Start dates are very flexible and the trip itself requires a short application.
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Empower Women and Girls in Zambia
Join a women and girls’ empowerment program in Livingstone, Zambia, with African Impact. Zambia, a landlocked country in southern Africa, is home to many national parks and safari areas with diverse wildlife. Livingstone is a popular destination due to its proximity to Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and the Zambezi River. Victoria Falls, also known as “The Smoke that Thunders,” is one of the world's largest waterfalls and is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The volunteer program includes three distinct phases. The first phase focuses on teaching women and girls about health and wellness topics. These topics include HIV and pregnancy prevention along with tips to mitigate risks of violence. The second phase includes financial well-being advice including career coaching and planning for the future. The final phase teaches women and girls how to express themselves through leadership and communication workshops, public speaking programs, and work to boost individuals’ self esteem. The trip also offers opportunities to explore Livingstone and Victoria Falls through ziplining and whitewater rafting. This journey is run by African Impact, an organization that aims to take volunteering, internships and group travel to new heights. The trip can be taken for 10 days at a cost of $1,375 or up to 12 weeks for $5,745. It requires a short application to be considered.
To learn more about African Impact’s efforts in Zambia, check out CATALYST’s Travel and Purpose Podcast in which Alison Vorsatz is interviewed about her experience volunteering on this trip.
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Do Long-Term Volunteering and Hiking in Tanzania
Tanzania is one of Africa’s most renowned destinations. Home to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest mountain, and Serengeti National Park, home of the wildebeest and zebra migration along with local wildlife such as giraffes, rhinos and lions, Tanzania is a country with exotic animals and a rich culture. On this trip, travelers have the opportunity to volunteer in the Kilombero and Mvomero districts of Tanzania. Kilombero, located in the Morogoro region, is made up of vast flood plains, while Mvomero is situated near farms and rivers.
The trip is a three-phase volunteering program lasting up to 10 weeks. However, there are also shorter options for four, five or seven weeks. The first two phases of the trip include living with a host family. The first phase of the trip is the “community” phase, in which volunteers work on water, sanitation and hygiene projects in rural areas. The second phase is the “environmental” phase, where the primary goal is to increase awareness about protecting natural resources. This includes replanting trees in deforested areas, going to schools to talk about climate change and protecting national parks. The third and final phase is a trekking expedition that serves to build leadership and teamwork skills. This phase is a backpacking expedition through the Morogoro region or Tanzania’s southern highlands. The Morogoro region is found in eastern Tanzania and is known for its game reserves and mountain scenery. The southern highlands, on the other hand, are home to vast plateaus and volcanic mountains. The ten-week trip is run by Raleigh International, a young adult-oriented (ages 17 to 24) volunteering company that seeks to promote leadership and civic duty. The trip itself costs $5,500.
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Volunteer to Teach in Peru with Vulnerable Populations
The Latin American Foundation for the Future (LAFF) is a United Kingdom-based organization that works with partner organizations in Peru to help disadvantaged children and young adults build a better future. LAFF has various volunteer opportunities available in Peru. To learn more about these opportunities, you can visit LAFF and check out volunteer positions such as communications coordinator, program coordinator, fundraising coordinator and more. If you have experience with Spanish, there is the opportunity to work directly with partner organizations in Peru to make a difference in the lives of the children they work with. These educational projects are located throughout Peru’s Cusco department including in the city of Cusco, surrounding Quechua communities, the Sacred Valley and the town of Oropesa.
Cusco is a city in southeastern Peru located in the Andean highlands. It was once the capital of the Incan empire. Cusco is known for its ancient ruins, but the city faces many educational problems that LAFF aims to conquer. The Sacred Valley is a region of Peru’s Andean highlands near Cusco that encompasses the famous ruins of Machu Picchu. The Quechua people are a group of Indigenous people in Peru and Bolivia who speak Quechua. LAFF works with these communities to strengthen their education systems. Finally, Oropesa is one of 12 districts in Peru’s Quispicanchi province. This district is located southeast of Cusco and is surrounded by many Incan ruins. In order to volunteer with LAFF, you must fill out an application. This volunteer opportunity is variable in terms of length with a minimum of three months but a recommended stay of six to 12 months. The cost of these volunteer opportunities is only flights, accommodations and food which volunteers are responsible for covering themselves.
To learn more about Peru and LAFF, check out CATALYST’s Travel and Purpose Podcast in which Steph Dyson, a travel writer and educator, is interviewed about her experience volunteering with the organization.
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LAFF
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Join One Day School Visits with Room to Read in Southeast Asia and Africa
Room to Read is a global organization that seeks to increase educational opportunities for low-income students in the developing world. Room to Read has impacted students all over the world, especially in Southeast Asia and Africa. Specifically, Room to Read has either partner schools or a literacy program in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Zambia, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Grenada, Indonesia, Rwanda, Jordan and Myanmar. By working with individual communities and the local government, Room to Read hopes to develop literacy skills among primary schoolchildren while additionally supporting girls as they complete secondary school. Room to Read has field trip opportunities to visit their worldwide literacy programs. The trip consists of a visit to the school to learn more about the program and meetings with students to participate in learning activities and discussions. The trip lasts for one day and requires a $25 donation to Room to Read. These trips are ideal for those that are already visiting countries with Room to Read schools and programs.
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