Learn what a parent needs to know about volunteer opportunities for teens abroad. ☆ It finally happened. The day you feared would come has come at last. Your teen expressed interest in traveling abroad, in volunteering abroad, no less. You want them to travel and enjoy the world, but couldn’t they wait until at least their 30s…?
They’re ready to leave the nest! Here’s how best to help them.
We feel you, Mom and Dad. But traveling and volunteering abroad can be some of the most amazing, life-shaping adventures your teen can experience. We know you’ve got questions, so here are some resources, tips, and answers pooled into your ultimate guide to high school volunteer abroad programs.
Why should your teen volunteer abroad in high school?
There are a few reasons high school volunteer abroad programs are great for your teenager. This kind of experience will look amazing on their college applications! Colleges want to know that applicants can rise to new challenges, and an adventure abroad almost guarantees that your teen is capable of that! The fact that their adventure abroad is volunteer work only appeals to colleges even more. It shows that your teen takes initiative, is a hard worker, and has a desire to do good in the world. College applications will be a breeze after your teen volunteers abroad.
Volunteering abroad gives your teen an edge with college applications.
It will give them a chance to disconnect. Teens are constantly on computers, laptops, phones, and tablets. While technology can be very useful, it’s wise to disconnect every once and a while. Your teen won’t have time to check instagram when they’re in Iceland, visiting glaciers and saving the Icelandic environment (or any other equally fabulous volunteer adventure). They’ll have real opportunity to connect in the real world with other teens, with their trip leaders, and with the local people!
Traveling allows personal growth for people of all ages, but especially for teens! Your teen will learn tons about themselves and who they are as a person. They’ll learn self-reliance and gain a newfound confidence in themselves.
FAQs
How do I know my child will be safe?
Let’s get the big one out of the way. Is it safe to volunteer abroad as a teenager? Volunteering abroad can be a great and safe experience for your teen with just a little bit of preparation and awareness from you both :)
Is this volunteer organization legitimate?
Picking a program is an intimidating (and important!) part of the experience. Don’t be afraid to really grill the volunteer organizations. Ask the hard questions—they will be in charge of your child and you have every right to research each organization’s validity, general procedures, and safety policies. You can also use GoAbroad’s verification service to help validate the organizations. Ask your questions, verify with GoAbroad, and talk to previous volunteers! You could even ask for previous parent’s contact information for references.
Just a little bit of preparation and research can give you peace of mind and help your teen have more fun!
Will they provide my teen with the basics?
Specifics differ, but most high school volunteer abroad programs provide housing and three meals a day. Housing can be anything from homestays to hotel rooms, depending on if the program involves traveling in country. Volunteer programs for teens often go the extra mile, including international insurance in addition to the the basics. Besides all the physical basics, volunteer organizations often offer preparation classes, health and safety abroad training, and reverse culture shock tips. Your teen will have all the support they need to have an awesome trip.
Will volunteers have a support system/supervision?
Yes! Most programs to volunteer abroad for teenagers include 24 hour supervision, with chaperones and leaders nearby at all times. Volunteer organizations that work with teens vet their team heavily, meaning trip leaders are background checked, CPR certified, and safety trained. They also ensure a low ratio of staff to participant, so your child will receive the support they need.
That doesn’t mean your teen is smothered though. With some programs, teens enjoy free time in an enclosed and safe area, such as in a museum or a market. They’re always required to stay with a buddy though.
Staying with the group will keep your teen safe and help them make friends!
What if something bad happens?
Volunteer organizations take tons of precautions to ensure the safety of all volunteers. They have 24 hour supervision and stay up to date on international travel warnings for each destination. Check out the health and safety page for GVI, a top teen volunteer organization, for an idea of how organizations take every precaution to keep your teen safe.
In the unlikely event something bad does happen, organizations have detailed emergency action and evacuation plans. There are 24 hour emergency phone lines, so you’ll be notified immediately of any crisis. Read more about safety for high schoolers abroad here.
What else should we do to ensure maximum safety?
Traveling comes with risks, no matter your age or destination. That said, there are some precautions that you can take personally to help minimize the risk. For example, make digital copies of all important documents, so that your teen still has access to them even if they lose their luggage. Teens should listen to their program leaders at all times. These leaders are often local to the destination and have lots of training on how best to keep your teen safe. Volunteers should also remember to act with respect, avoiding talking loudly in English or drawing attention to themselves. Local customs may have different standards for dress or communication, so do your research! Being respectful of local culture and customs will help volunteers to avoid confrontation and blend in.
Where should my teen volunteer abroad?
Choosing the right location will help your teen have a great time.
Location, location, location! Where your child volunteers is an important factor when considering their safety and overall experience. This should be a conversation between you and your teen. Is there a general area or continent you’d like to focus on? Which countries offer programs that align with their interests? What countries is your teen interested in for volunteering? And where do those countries rank on the WorldAtlas safest countries guide? Iceland, New Zealand, Austria, and Denmark are just a few of the options that provide uber safe travel adventures for not just teens, but all adventurers. We’ve also outlined a few of our favorite safe countries for your teen here.
What are the most popular teen volunteer opportunities abroad?
There are tons of great programs out there. Here’s a of great list of teen volunteer opportunities to help get you started. We’ve picked out a few of our favorites here as well.
1. For Teens: Australia and New Zealand Service
Does your teen have an affinity for all things in the land down under? This program will whisk them through the gorgeous Australian outback where they’ll have the opportunity to volunteer with local organizations to help the wildlife and habitat. They’ll love cuddling koalas or petting kangaroos and they’ll be fully immersed in Australian and Maori culture. This program also includes a visit to the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge, so your teen will get a chance to site see during their volunteer work.
2. GoBeyond - Inspiring Iceland
Iceland’s landscape is as amazing as it is varied, from gigantic glaciers to lush forests, and your teen could volunteer to help preserve it all! They’ll rack up over 30 hours of community service working to protect Iceland’s environment through reforestation and coastal cleanups. GoBeyond’s Iceland project offers participants amazing experiences like snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Silfra fissure, hiking a glacier, observing over 20 species on a whale watching trip, and bathing in a steaming lagoon. Your teen will have a great time learning about and protecting the environment while having adventures in Iceland.
3. High School Volunteer Abroad and Adventure Experience in Thailand
“Work first, play later” is the motto of GVI’s volunteer program in Thailand. Volunteers spend a week working with sea turtle conservation, marine debris collection, and other regional projects before taking a week to explore Thailand. The week exploring Thailand will teach volunteers about conservation, responsible tourism, and local Thai culture by visiting several National Parks, tropical islands, and the city of Phuket. Plus, GVI is a parent run organization, so they get you, and they’ve got tons of resources made just for concerned parents like you.
[View ALL Volunteer Programs for Teens]
What’s the average cost of high school volunteer abroad—and how do we afford it?
The cost to volunteer abroad for teenagers largely depends on the length and location, as well as what extras are included. A month long program in France would definitely cost more than say a two week program in Brazil. Some programs offer cultural experiences, which are cool but might add to the cost (they’re often worth the price though). You should also account for airfare costs, which are typically not included in program fee and can also vary based on destination. Don’t forget to factor in some spending money for your teen as well. The costs of teen volunteer opportunities abroad can add up quick!
When it really comes down to it, though, this is your child we’re talking about. We know that you’d spend extra on a program if it meant they would have a better time or be more safe. But keep in mind that the most expensive programs are not necessarily the best. Do your homework when researching these programs to make sure the benefits are worth the cost for you.
That all said, we know traveling can get expensive. We’ve got an entire section of resources dedicated to finding scholarships and funding your travels. GoAbroad’s ebook, The Complete Guide to Student Travel Scholarships, is another excellent source of information. The info, and the scholarships, is out there, just waiting to make your teen’s adventures more affordable
Can I keep in touch with my child while they volunteer abroad?
Keeping in touch is important in moderation.
Absolutely! With today’s technology, your child can contact you from almost anywhere in the world. We’ve even laid out some options for phone plans for you. However, it’s important to remember that every phone call or text is taking your teen away from the moment. Set reasonable expectations before they go and stick to them. If you’re really worried, look for volunteer organizations that will send a daily or weekly email updating parents about the group’s activities.
How can I help my teen get the most from this experience?
If your teenager is interested in volunteering abroad, they’re likely to want to take the initiative. Let them! Encourage your teen to research programs on their own and pitch their top three options to you. Let them take the driver’s seat with applying and registering for programs.
You should definitely be involved and know all the important information. However, volunteering abroad is a fantastic way to build your teen’s independence and autonomy. They’ll get the most from the experience if they are able to do it for themselves as much as possible. Here’s more about how to empower your teen to have a successful experience abroad.
Other helpful links
- 12 Reasons to Do High School Volunteer Work Abroad
- Funding for Volunteering 101
- 10 Pieces of Advice for Parents of Travel-Bound Teens
- Your Child is Overseas, Now What?
- What Your Child Wants You to Know About Reverse Culture Shock
- General Articles for Parents
You’re ready to help your teen volunteer abroad!
They might get a little messy, but they’ll have a great time!
Volunteering abroad is a great experience for teens. They’ll gain valuable skills, build their resume and college applications, and grow as a person! As their parent, you’ll play a big role in their volunteering experience. You’ll encourage them when they’re feeling frustrated with researching programs. You’ll back them up when they’re trying to figure out budgets. You’ll bouy them up when they’re feeling nervous about departure or homesick abroad. Even if they are a teen and won’t admit it, your words and support mean a lot to your fledgling volunteer child. With some preparations and team work, your teen will have the adventure of a lifetime.
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