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If you want to be a volunteer overseas, we can guess that altruism is at the heart of your goals! There’s no denying that we’ve collectively entered an era where the feeling of wanting to do good for humankind and the Earth is nearly palpable. However, it’s become increasingly important to properly vet volunteer abroad programs prior to choosing an experience, due to issues of unsustainable practices, exploitation, and a myriad of other safety concerns. That’s where we come in! Whether you’re looking for long term volunteer experiences or just want to spend your summer off making a difference, we can help you find the right volunteer project for you, thanks to our thousands of reviews, decades of experience and our compilation of some of the highest quality programs available.

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A Guide to Volunteering Abroad

How to volunteer abroad

If you want to volunteer abroad and you're not quite sure where to start, here’s exactly what you need to do:

  1. Choose which cause you want to support. Most people who decide to volunteer abroad have been inspired by a social or political issue in the world. Whether it’s climate change, LGBTQIA+ rights, refugee displacement, or beyond, it’s important to know what exactly it is you want to lend your time and effort to. There are hundreds of causes out there, but think about which one truly speaks to you?

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My Unforgettable CFHI Experience in Cape Town

by: Natan Hekmatjah - United StatesProgram: Global Health in Cape Town, South Africa
10

Wow! Before embarking on my CFHI trip to Cape Town, South Africa, I truly didn’t know what to expect. Looking back, I can confidently say that it was one of the most incredible experiences of my life! From the clinical learning at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital to the warm hospitality of my homestay family, the breathtaking beauty of Cape Town, and the support of the CFHI team—every aspect of the trip exceeded my expectations. One of the highlights was staying with a local host family. The families who opened their homes to us were incredibly kind, welcoming, and accommodating. They made us feel at home from day one, offering not only a place to stay but also cultural insights, home-cooked meals, and a sense of community. It was an amazing way to truly immerse ourselves in the local way of life. The CFHI coordinators were phenomenal. Whether it was helping us navigate transportation, answering our questions, or ensuring we had everything we needed, they were always available and ready to assist. Their dedication made the experience seamless and stress-free. The hospital experience was equally eye-opening. Being part of the pediatric surgery team at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital gave me an invaluable perspective on how medicine is practiced in a resource-limited setting. I witnessed diseases and conditions I had only read about in textbooks and saw firsthand how doctors rely heavily on clinical skills and creativity to provide care when diagnostic resources are limited. The physicians and healthcare workers were not only skilled but also incredibly compassionate and dedicated, which was truly inspiring. And then there’s Cape Town itself—absolutely breathtaking! It felt like something out of a dream. From the stunning coastline and rugged mountains to the unreal sunsets and rich cultural history, every moment spent exploring the city was unforgettable. Whether hiking up Table Mountain, visiting the Cape of Good Hope, or simply taking in the ocean views, there was always something incredible to see and do. I wholeheartedly recommend CFHI to anyone considering an international medical rotation. More importantly, I cannot recommend the Cape Town program enough! It was a life-changing experience that deepened my appreciation for global health, expanded my clinical knowledge, and left me with memories that I will cherish forever.

Latest Interviews

Jenna Patton

Jenna Patton

Global Citizen Adventure Corps

Alumni

Traveling abroad has been a dream of mine since I visited Spain my junior year of college. Immersing myself in a different culture is incredibly appea...

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Martha Edinger

Martha Edinger

Global Citizen Adventure Corps

Alumni

It was a trip where I knew I'd be safe. Everything was planned and I wasn't the one who had to do the planning. I like that a lot! I also knew Oaxaca ...

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