Volunteer in Youth Support in Portugal with IVHQ

I had such a great experience volunteering with IVHQ. From the very beginning, the support and communication were clear, and the whole process felt really well-organized. The placement itself was not only rewarding but also gave me the chance to meet amazing people, explore a new culture, and contribute in a meaningful way. I felt safe and supported throughout, and IVHQ made the whole journey easy to navigate. It was honestly one of the best experiences I’ve had, and I’d love to go again in the future. Would definitely recommend IVHQ to anyone thinking about volunteering abroad.

My experience was great since the beginning. When I booked everything I always had a coordinator who will answer all my questions during this months. And when I arrived to Portugal, the local coordinators were always there if you need them. Everybody made it really easy to integrate, we were like a family. The volunteer program was amazing, we felt like we were really useful and helpful, I'm so glad I went to this program, it made me grow a lot as a person by helping others daily.

Travelling has never been something that peaked my interest but when I heard of IVHQ and all the different opportunities I chose to step outside my comfort zone and volunteer with their program in Lisbon, Portugal. As an unexperienced traveller I had so many questions and concerns when I first applied but right away IVHQ made sure that every concern or question I had would be answered with care and in depth. Travelling to Portugal was the best decision I made. I had the chance to meet people from all over the world and develop friendships, experience a whole different culture and challenge myself by volunteering in difficult situations. I recommend to anyone to take a chance and step outside your comfort zone and travel, explore, and create with IVHQ!

My experience on the Lisbon Youth Support Program was incredible. The placement was enjoyable and impactful. The accommodation was friendly, well run and felt like a home away from home (with excellent food!). The support network from the moment I applied to me sat in my kitchen now has been thorough and melted away any nerves throughout this journey. The people I met were from every corner of the globe and we have already organised to meet once more. In short, I cannot wait to go back!

I spent three amazing weeks in Portugal and I would totally recommend it to everyone. The local team was amazing and I've met so many wonderful persons that made this trip unforgettable. You get to know so many personalities for all over the world which makes it so interesting. Lisbon is just beautiful and there is so much to see and to do. Many beaches are close, castels and beautiful viewpoints. I recommend a daytrip to Sintra which is like a fairytale. And I even went to Porto for a weekend. The project was very good too. We had to change the first placement as the kids were all in holidays but the local team helped us to change to another fantastic placement where I had so much fun with the children. Volunteering feels wonderful and I will for sure do it again. So do it! Pack your things and go on an adventure!

This was my first IVHQ project and I had an incredible time. I went to Portugal to help out with a Youth Support program and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience! I was placed at an after school centre for children of all ages where I would help them with their homework, teach English, play games and help with arts and crafts activities. The IVHQ program manager and the local team were so helpful throughout the process. All my fellow volunteers were so nice and now I have friends from all over the world! I hope to go on another IVHQ project soon!