Volunteer Abroad for 1-2 Years

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225 1-2 Year Volunteer Abroad Programs
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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Volunteers on the Community Outreach program in Cordoba support local initiatives in low-income and underserved neighbourhoods. You may assist with food outreach, distributing meals or essential items, supporting elderly community members, and helping run social, cultural, or recreational activities
See All 11 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
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GoEco offers more than 60 wildlife and animal conservation volunteer opportunities and internships worldwide! Our programs focus on the welfare and conservation of various species, both wildlife and domestic animals. We offer volunteer opportunities and internships at wildlife rescue centers, wildli
See All 11 ProgramsInternational Medical Aid (IMA)
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IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care
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This program offers a full 8-week "All In" experience combining adventure and cultural exchange in Costa Rica and Cuba. Spend one month in each country embracing the lifestyle, enjoying the best activities, and making a positive impact by supporting local communities. Start in Costa Rica with Spani
See All 3 ProgramsLove Volunteers
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Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to h
Connect-123 Internship Programs
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Looking for an international internship that will set you apart—and give you the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive in your career? Connect-123 designs fully customized programs that match your background and goals, offering hands-on experience in some of the world’s most exciting cities:
See All 2 Programs4.29
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Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g
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Are you interested in collaborating with a local community, focusing on the development of a permaculture initiative as well as protection of biodiversity in an off-the-beaten location known for its global importance? In that case, sign up for a Sustainable Development Program - a field volunteer p
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IPBio has conducted a tree inventory at one of its trails, about 642 meters long and located in an area of the Brazilian reserve that comprises an anthropomorphized secondary forest. This inventory has found 22 species from 15 distinct families. Moreover, IPBio has collected information on morphol
See All 2 ProgramsEco Caminhos
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Eco Caminhos is an international permaculture farm and learning community located in the peaceful mountains of Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, within Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. For more than 12 years, we have been developing regenerative systems focused on agroforestry, bioconstruction, sustainabilit
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Our program in Barcelona offers students and young professionals meaningful international experience in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities. It is designed to strengthen CVs, explore career pathways, improve Spanish, and immerse participants in authentic life in Spain while contributing to real orga
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Jump into a hands-on adventure in veterinary medicine and animal care in Córdoba, Argentina! Make a real difference for domestic animals who’ve been neglected, abandoned, or mistreated. You’ll split your time between a local dog shelter and a veterinary clinic, gaining diverse experience in animal
See All 9 Programs5
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Are you looking for hands-on work experience to help launch your professional career? One of the best ways to impress prospective employers is to complete an international internship! Students appreciate the unique opportunity the Spanish Institute provides through our internship program. With the
Volunteering Journeys
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Become involved with the functions of a medical institution catering to underserved communities in a developing country. Join our medical internship in Cambodia and get the chance to observe procedures in various departments. This program is based in a large state hospital, and your placement will
See All 3 ProgramsFundación Aldeas De Paz - Peace Villages Foundation
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Immerse yourself in the reality of healthcare in the Dominican Republic with this unique opportunity. Gain invaluable hands-on experience alongside medical professionals and volunteers in hospitals or neighborhood health clinics. Witness and have the chance to observe and learn about the differences
See All 7 ProgramsVolunteers For Peace
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Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best w
Involvement Volunteers International
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Volunteer as a part of Turtle Conservation in Bali and help protect the endangered sea turtles of Indonesia. You’ll be whisked away by boat to an island 45 minutes from mainland Bali. Depending on the time of year, you’ll collect turtle population statistics, identify species, gather eggs, monitor n
See All 53 ProgramsProjects Abroad
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Nepal is a stunning land of snow-capped mountains, ancient temples, and vibrant traditions. As the home of Mount Everest and the majestic Himalayas, it is a destination that captures the heart of every traveler. By participating in our programs, you’ll go beyond the typical trek to immerse yourself
See All 7 Programs4.53
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We are looking for volunteers and interns with creative teaching ideas, such as playing games, singing, storytelling, acting, etc. The focus should be on developing curiosity about other cultures and experiencing language as a communication tool and part of a culture. You can also organize workshops
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Join our volunteer program in Kisumu, Kenya, where you'll have the opportunity to make a real impact in the lives of women affected by HIV through a transformative tailoring initiative. Volunteers will support women in learning vital skills, from sewing to entrepreneurship, while also helping impro
See All 4 ProgramsVive Peru
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Local children are able to attend school, considering Trujillo’s public school system. But the quality of education, especially arts, is low and limited. And while a study has shown the importance of extracurricular activities in preventing involvement with gangs and crime among at-risk kids, the la
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Education for the Children (EFTC), founded in 2003, is a registered charity in Guatemala, the UK, and the US. EFTC works in partnership with disadvantaged families, children, and young adults in Guatemala to ensure they develop the tools they need to break free from the cycle of poverty. EFTC’s Sch
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The Jaguar Project, located in Campina Grande do Sul (Brazil), aims to protect and restore threatened native Brazilian species by reintroducing them to nature and ensuring a healthy environment for them to live freely. Volunteers participate in daily activities to keep the animals fed and living in
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Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thailand on a comprehensive 6-month journey. Experience an exceptional blend of cultural immersion, wildlife conservation, and community involvement. You'll start your journey by contributing to wildlife conservation in South Africa amidst
See All 2 Programs4.25
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Help save lives in Uganda by volunteering with our nonprofit organization. We aim to reach marginalized children and youths such as orphans, school dropouts, refugees, and members of poverty-stricken families. Today, we bring together over 300 children from the outskirt districts of Kampala, Muben
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We seek volunteers to help address the deprivation of learning and teaching aids and to support and share knowledge with our teachers in less-resourced schools. Help in a range of subjects including Mathematics, Science, Geography, Social Science, History, Business Education, Art, and Music, as wel
See All 2 ProgramsElective Africa
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Elective Africa’s PA Program is suited to meet requirements for electives, internships abroad, clinical preceptorship, and independent study abroad. It is crafted to ensure that you gain supervised hands-on experience, exposure to a different culture, and the development of relevant skills and clini
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Join the Special Needs Support Program in Spain! Individual care makes a significant difference in helping people with disabilities lead meaningful lives. However, finding such care can be challenging, as Spain’s education system is not fully equipped to accommodate these needs. Volunteers provide e
See All 2 Programs5
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We seek dedicated individuals to help us foster peace and understanding in the Kakuma refugee camp and the surrounding host community. As a volunteer, you will play a vital role in developing peacebuilding activities that involve community leaders, youth, and women. Your efforts will empower these g
See All 3 Programs4.5
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The MOLAC program in Tanzania offers a meaningful cultural exchange experience combining volunteer work, Kiswahili language learning, and homestay living with local families. Participants gain deep insight into Tanzanian culture while contributing to community-based initiatives and developing practi
ELEP Volunteer & Internship Programs
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Looking to volunteer abroad with underprivileged children? If so, then the ELEP Volunteer & Internship Programs offer you the opportunity to work with children who have lost their parents, been abandoned, or have no one to love and care for them. Our Orphanage Volunteer program in South America pr
See All 2 Programs5
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A community outreach program is an organized effort by an organization to connect directly with people in a specific community, understand their needs, and provide resources or services that help solve real problems. Rooted in listening: Starts with talking to community members rather than assuming
See All 2 Programs5
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Founded in 2015, The Shami Institute in Jordan offers intensive Levantine and Jordanian Arabic courses, online Arabic lessons, and a variety of volunteer, internship, and community programs in Amman. Participants can learn Arabic, meet new people from around the world, and engage with local commun
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Join Kyosei in Tanzania and embark on a unique journey merging humanitarian missions, cultural exchange, and fundraising for a noble cause. We welcome volunteers from all age groups to engage in diverse projects, explore nearby attractions, and exchange cultures. Whether solo, with a partner, family
See All 3 Programs5
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Share a welcoming, bilingual home with fellow travellers while you teach, create, or explore Rio de Janeiro. No need to be fluent in English or Portuguese—just a little of either helps. Our main program: Join the Escola Casa do Mar English Teaching Program and support free English classes for 120 s
Our Generation Voluntary Organisation
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This Our Generation Voluntary Organisation project focuses on the construction and renovation of orphanages, clinics, community centers, toilet facilities, and libraries; the building of classrooms, roads, and drainage systems; and the digging of wells. Volunteers have the opportunity to meet chief
See All 5 Programs4
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Flowers Children's Centre welcomes passionate volunteers to join our family! We offer an immersive experience where you'll provide care and supervision to our children while embracing the vibrant Tanzanian culture. Become a mentor and confidant, assisting with daily activities like mealtimes, playt
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Join Future for Africa in Sogakope, Ghana, for a volunteer and cultural exchange experience in partnership with Healthmates Nutrition. This program blends meaningful community service with authentic cultural immersion, allowing you to give back while experiencing Ghana personally. You’ll support loc
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Make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable children in rural Uganda by volunteering with us. Our program focuses on improving access to education for children who face barriers such as lack of school fees, inadequate scholastic materials, and limited learning resources. As a volunteer, yo
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Our Medical Volunteer in Arusha, is perfectly designed for medical students or those with a medical background looking to volunteer abroad! Here, you will work alongside experienced, English-speaking doctors and Nurses assisting in the care of the patients. Please note, that as this program is based
See All 2 Programs0
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Volunteer in Togo (West Africa) with Jordan Mission! Teach English, IT, and music, or support vocational training in plumbing, electricity, sewing, etc. at our Youth Center in Badja, 45km from Lomé. Help young adults gain skills for jobs while also running wellbeing and community programs. What yo
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Active Volunteers Abroad (AVA) is a leading volunteer NGO trusted by more than 4,000 volunteers. AVA offers volunteer abroad programs starting from just US$25 per day, including accommodation. With AVA, you can volunteer overseas for periods ranging from 1 to 24 weeks. Programs are available year-ro
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Organica Farmcampus is a hands-on learning center located in Mikindani Mtwara, southern Tanzania, dedicated to sustainable agriculture and natural wellness. The campus itself is built using ecological, low-impact materials and techniques, giving volunteers the opportunity to learn about eco-friendly
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Join our community in creating lasting change by helping us build a brighter future for children through education. Our school has already completed four nursery classrooms, providing a safe learning environment for young children. We are now working to construct six additional classrooms for upper
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Teach and inspire students in Ho, Ghana, through our Teaching Volunteer Program. Volunteers support local teachers in public and community schools by assisting with English, Mathematics, Science, ICT, reading, arts, and extracurricular activities. No teaching experience is required—just enthusiasm,
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Join us in the rural village of Takure, Sindupalchowk, Nepal, and become a part of a community-driven volunteer program focused on sustainable development, agriculture, and environmental conservation. Whether you are passionate about making a positive impact, learning new skills, or experiencing a
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Volunteer with My Shepherd Ministry Uganda and experience rural life while supporting sustainable agriculture in Kamuli District. Work alongside local farmers to plant crops, prepare gardens, harvest produce, plant trees, and promote environmentally friendly farming practices that improve food secur
See All 6 Programs0
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Volunteer in Costa Rica's Ostional Wildlife Refuge and contribute to the conservation of olive ridley sea turtles at one of the world's most important nesting beaches. Working alongside local conservationists, you'll participate in day and night patrols, beach monitoring, nest protection, data colle
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Over 80% of South African 10-year-olds struggle to read for meaning, indicating a serious literacy crisis. After-school academic support programs have proven effective in improving educational outcomes, especially in under-resourced communities. These programs help reduce educational inequality by o
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TWESA is a local NGO based in Karonga, Malawi, which was established on 1st December 2015. TWESA aims to positively impact the citizens of Karonga district to create a healthy, educated and gender balanced society. TWESA is working in five thematic areas: Women and Youth Empowerment: Training in in
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Learn Spanish in Guatemala with El Nahual Spanish School! Located in Quetzaltenango (Xela), Guatemala, El Nahual Spanish School offers a personalized and immersive learning experience for students of all levels. Our native-speaking teachers provide one-on-one classes tailored to each student’s goal
Kilimanjaro Volunteers Tanzania
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Most volunteers in Tanzania are near Kilimanjaro. KVT puts you on it. This program places you directly in villages on the slopes of Africa's highest peak, where you'll work alongside local communities while having full access to Tanzania's most iconic adventures. Unlike large international operator
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Join our volunteer programs for a meaningful opportunity to create a positive impact in local communities while immersing yourself in Africa's vibrant culture, traditions, and stunning landscapes. Tailored for individuals, families, and groups, our programs focus on meaningful engagements in key are
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ZIVO is a community-based internship and volunteering organization located in Zanzibar, dedicated to creating meaningful impact through healthcare, education, community development, and cultural exchange programs. ZIVO connects international volunteers and interns with local communities, providing o
Centre for Eco-Cultural studies
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Are you ready to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world conservation? For more than two decades, Centre for Eco-Cultural Studies (CES) has been a trusted global leader in experiential education. We have proudly hosted international students, academic researchers, and university cohor
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Dive into community service and a life-changing experience while volunteering with Local Hope Guatemala/Xela AID. Engage in cultural immersion and exchange as you work daily with our local staff and the local kids, adults, and seniors in our programs. Visit their homes, learn about their lives, and
See All 2 ProgramsA Broader View Volunteers Corp
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Embark on an unforgettable journey with abroaderview, volunteering amidst the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Cusco, Peru. Set amidst the majestic Andes Mountains, Cusco is a city steeped in history, offering a perfect blend of ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and vibrant
See All 2 Programs0
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In Africa, there’s a saying: Sometimes a true friend means more than family. For countless children facing poverty, early marriage, limited access to education, and adult responsibilities as early as age 12, a kind word can make a lasting impact. The Pen Pal Program was created to bring hope throug
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The Childcare Program is designed for volunteers passionate about supporting children’s growth, education, and well-being in underserved communities. Participants work in orphanages, daycare centers, and community outreach programs, providing essential care, educational activities, and emotional sup
See All 3 Programs0
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Our teaching program accommodates teachers at every stage of their careers. It provides aspiring educators with immersive, hands-on classroom experience in a culturally diverse setting, accommodating the requirements of any certification program, such as TEFL/TESOL or a university student teaching p
See All 3 Programs0
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Volunt2Thai – Volunteer in Thailand Since 2013, our project has supported disadvantaged children in Northeastern Thailand through village development and education initiatives. About Volunt2Thai Project - Volunteer to Thailand อาสาสมัครประเทศไทย Be a guest in a Thai village, learn from the locals,
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Background information Cacilia Primary School is the school found in a small city mkwajuni -SONGWE region in southern of TANZANIA Cacilia provide education both children from 3 years up to 12 years...... Cacilia school is located at Songwe region within the Songwe district near with small city mkwaj
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St. Miracle Works Educational Foundation invites midwifery interns and volunteers to support our partner hospitals and clinics across Ghana. These health facilities deliver essential services such as maternity care, diagnosis and treatment of malaria, typhoid, and diarrhea, as well as contraceptive
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Mokolodi Nature Reserve, located just outside Gaborone, Botswana, offers an immersive wildlife conservation programme designed for university students and individuals interested in environmental science, ecology, and conservation. This programme provides participants with a unique opportunity to ga
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Make a meaningful impact in children’s lives and communities in Kenya. Volunteers engage in education, football, environmental initiatives, girl empowerment, and administrative support, contributing to sustainable programs and community development. Education: Assist in classrooms, tutor children,
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Sub-Saharan African countries are suffering from a huge number of orphans left behind after their parents die from illnesses such as HIV/AIDS, resulting in a larger number of orphanages in countries such as Tanzania. Contributing to this disproportionate number of orphanages is the fact that, in so
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Synergy for Resilience is a multi-sectoral initiative by Village Synergy aimed at strengthening self-reliance and sustainable development across Northern Uganda. Addressing the interconnected challenges of post-conflict recovery and climate vulnerability, the program integrates Health, Education, Li
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CAYE is a registered youth charitable organization in Mzuzu, Malawi. Established in 2014, CAYE works in the Northern Region and parts of the Central Region to empower young people, women, and small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development. CAYE focuses on yo
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Based in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, our Medical Volunteer Program is built on long-term partnerships with trusted local clinics and health initiatives. Our work is led by the needs of these organizations, so volunteers are placed where they are genuinely wanted and can contribute responsibly. Healt
See All 2 Programs0
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Children’s Hope Organization is a community based NGO located in Tanzania that supports children from low income families through education, care, and community development programs. This volunteer experience is designed for individuals who want to make a real impact while immersing themselves in lo
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Moonlight Children’s Home established in April 2009 provides a home for the abandoned homeless and orphan children of Nepal. MCH is a registered (NGO) non–profit, non-government organization of Nepal to provide home, food, education, clothes, a healthy environment and entertainment to the developmen
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Join NAFF Foundation on a life-changing volunteer program in Mbita, Kenya, supporting the Heal and Empower Mbita’s Elderly and Youth initiative. Volunteers help provide physiotherapy care for the elderly and create educational opportunities for underprivileged youth. You can work remotely or on-site
United Planet
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United Planet works with refugee support centers in Chișinău, the capital city of Moldova. Both skilled and unskilled volunteers and interns are needed. Participants work in refugee support centers that provide temporary housing or daytime services, along with a diverse range of services to Ukrainia
See All 2 Programs0
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Monastery & Nunnery Support Program Impact Lives in Nepal, the Birthplace of Buddha. Volunteer with the Good Karma Foundation to teach English to monks and nuns. This unique program allows you to learn about Buddhism and monastic life while empowering future leaders. Many young monks and nuns are
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Join a one-of-a-kind volunteer building experience deep in the lush jungles of Dominica. You'll work alongside skilled local carpenters to build cottages and infrastructure for a future healing retreat at our ten-acre dog rescue sanctuary. Using local materials like bamboo, roseau, raw wood, and riv
See All 2 ProgramsOtra Cosa Network
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In this role, you will work under the supervision of the Program Manager to handle all things related to our Recreational and Educational Centre (REC) in Cerrito de la Virgen, a neighbouring settlement. You will be responsible for coordinating our Huanchaco Education and Learning Programmes (HELP) a
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Rwenzori Royal Institute and Mohama (RWEMO) is a community-driven organization dedicated to environmental conservation, education, and women’s empowerment in the Rwenzori region of Uganda. We believe that protecting nature goes hand in hand with uplifting people. Our mission is to safeguard natural
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The Pongola Game Reserve is a private wildlife reserve situated along the Pongolapoort Dam in northern KwaZulu-Natal province. This program encompasses monthly Nile crocodile daytime and spotlight counts, as well as terrestrial herpetofaunal surveys, which are conducted for a week each month during
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ASPIRE Training & Education is a non-profit, volunteer-run school and home for poor, homeless, and orphaned children in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Since 2012, it has provided free education, life skills, and a safe living environment through donations and volunteers. Volunteers teach English, art, music,
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We are Bronx Familia Animal Shelter, located on the beautiful island of Crete, Greece, where we care for over 300 rescued dogs who have been given a second chance at life. Many of our dogs were rescued from streets or difficult situations where they faced hunger, abuse, or neglect. Here, they enjoy
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As a volunteer at Amazon Shelter, you’ll be immersed in every part of our vital conservation work. From preparing specialized diets and feeding the animals to enriching their enclosures, collecting fresh leaves for our Howler monkeys, cleaning habitats, and assisting with repairs and maintenance, yo
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Join MDF in shaping the next generation of climate leaders through the STREAMS model, a unique approach blending Science, Technology, Research/Robotics, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Sports/Scuba. As a volunteer, you will work directly with children and youth aged 5 to 26 years, helping them c
See All 2 Programs0
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Welcome to the heart of Kenya’s rural education landscape, where every international participant plays a crucial role in shaping the future of young minds. As a volunteer teacher at a rural primary school, you’ll embark on a transformative journey, venturing into communities where educational resour
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Are you ready for your volunteer adventure in Togo? Let the Young People in Actions Without Borders, or Jeunes en Actions Sans Frontières (JASF), help you find the best humanitarian mission abroad. Africa is, perhaps, the best destination for a humanitarian mission abroad. Health and education teach
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Join Empower NGOs in Arusha, Tanzania, a unique program for volunteers who want to strengthen grassroots impact through fundraising and project development. Twiga Vision is a local NGO undergoing a complete organizational rebuild after losing its main sponsor. We're now reimagining our structure, s
See All 3 Programs0
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Volunteer in Uganda – Make a Real Difference Join Msafiri Tours for a life-changing volunteer experience in Uganda. Contribute your time and energy to schools, rural communities, and impactful projects nationwide. Opportunities Include: -Teaching & Education: Support local schools, tutor children,
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This volunteer program focuses on ensuring an organized and respectful environment for worshipers during their visits. By assisting in structured entry, exit, and footwear management, volunteers play a critical role in maintaining the sanctity and order of the worship spaces. Volunteers are neede
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Join the Humane Society of the United States as a Humane Policy Volunteer Leader to advance crucial federal, state, and local animal protection legislation. Volunteers build professional relationships with legislators, submit comments on regulations, and mobilize their communities to advocate for an
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Join the Hawai'i Marine Animal Response (HMAR) team to protect and preserve Hawaii's marine wildlife. Our volunteers play a crucial role in various programs, including field support, rescue and stranding response, animal care, marine debris removal, and operations support. Each program offers unique
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Choose between 2 volunteer program activities: Hospital Playground Volunteering Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young patients? Join our NAVES Hospital Playground project and become part of a team dedicated to providing play therapy support to children in need. We welco
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Marine Rescue NSW (MRNSW) offers opportunities for individuals passionate about maritime safety and community service to join their team. Volunteers are vital to maintaining operational standards, conducting rescues, and educating the public on boating safety. Roles include radio operations, vessel
A Guide to Volunteering Abroad for 1-2 Years
Why Volunteer for 1-2 years?
While the benefits of volunteering for any length of time are invaluable, long-term volunteering programs that last 1-2 years have off-the-chart potential. 1-2 year volunteer programs abroad are sure to be a life changing experience for both volunteer and the local communities.
Perhaps the most compelling reason to dive headfirst into long-term volunteering is to truly become a part of the community you are serving. Plus, you will get to stick around long enough to really see a project through and watch it evolve. But that won’t be the only thing that evolves. Like most who are passionate about volunteering, your ultimate goal is probably to help people. But intentionally or unintentionally, volunteering will also change you in countless ways.
Popular Locations
You know you want to volunteer abroad for a year or two, but getting started can be intimidating. The world is so big, and the choices are so bountiful! To turn your volunteer dreams into reality, check out a few of these popular locations:
Tanzania. Many are drawn to Tanzania for a hiking experience to awe-inspiring heights atop Kilimanjaro, a safari through the Serengeti, or lounging on the beach in Zanzibar. However, the real experience comes from greeting the bright smiling faces of the local children who rush to say hello to a long-term volunteer they’ve come to know and love. Long-term volunteer work in Tanzania gives people a chance to not only experience this beauty, but also the beauty of diving into a new language, culture, and way of living, all while making a huge difference in a community in need.
New Zealand. Help save the beautiful biodiversity of New Zealand ecosystems! Long before New Zealand was known for hobbits and wizards, this island was home to wonderfully diverse ecosystems. New Zealand is the perfect location for volunteers who are passionate about protecting this natural environment and combating the threats to this island nation’s landscape. Long-term volunteers can contribute in numerous ways and even spend time off exploring all that the real life Middle Earth has to offer hobbits and humans alike.
India. There is no middle ground in India: the rich are rich and the poor belong to some of the biggest slums in the world. Despite the major efforts made to combat poverty, it is an epidemic that rules the country. From volunteering abroad in local schools or providing care to the sick, to taking a stand in promoting human rights, there are many areas that could benefit from long-term volunteer support in India. Your perspective will change and eyes will open as you fall in love with a complex community that appreciates your hard work.
Popular 1-2 Year Volunteer Abroad Projects
If you’re planning to invest a year of your life in a long-term international volunteer program, chances are you’ve already dipped your toes in the water of short-term volunteering and you have a pretty good idea of how you want to allocate your skills and spirit. If you’re still undecided, siphon some inspo from these programs:
Medicine. Medical volunteering abroad can fulfill any giving spirit and allow long-term volunteers to gain a deeper insight into what healthcare looks like in different areas of the world. Often, hospitals in urban areas abroad are underserved in terms of medical professional staff, while rural clinics in developing countries operate vastly differently and usually with limited supplies and resources. No matter what your qualifications, there are always ways help those less fortunate live healthier, happier lives.
Conservation. Wildlife and environmental conservation is one of the most popular areas for volunteering abroad around the world. From working with endangered sea turtles in Central America to elephants in Southeast Asia, there are a huge amount of conservation volunteer opportunities out there for compassionate volunteers who strive to preserve the world’s ecological diversity.
Education. For many students in developing countries, going to school and doing homework is considered a luxury, instead of a chore. Access to quality education is a fundamental issue in the world today, and one that deserves a significant amount of international attention to resolve. If you want to make a sizable impact on one of the most undervalued, but highly necessary, fields in the world today, become a long-term volunteer abroad in education.
GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop
Relationships. The relationships you build when you do a 1-2 year volunteer program abroad are the rock solid, in it for life kinds of relationships. Long-term volunteers are not just pop-in visitors—they’re family.
Homesickness. Leaving behind everything you’ve ever known and trading it in for a life in a strange land for years to come is bound to bring about some bouts of homesickness here and there. No one is immune. The best way to combat this? Invite your friends and family to come visit you in whatever super rad country you now call home!
Be the Change. While short-term volunteer projects often place the emphasis on accomplishing short-term goals and changes, long-term volunteers are the ones backing these changes. They are much more rooted in the creation of transformational aspirations. Long-term volunteers are the ones who work towards the systemic changes that many aspire to accomplish. Volunteering is not an excursion but a lifestyle change.
There are those who point at what’s wrong and hope someone else will put in the hard work to change it, and then there’s you. You are among those who get out there, roll up your sleeves, and try to make this planet better for all. Long term volunteering takes a lot of grit, dedication, and no shortage of elbow grease, but we think you’re up for the task.
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Voluntours Colombia
I was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to move beyond traditional tourism and experience a country in a much deeper, more meaningful way. I had ...

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Cambodia Volunteer Foundation
I've always had a strong desire to explore the world, experience different cultures, and connect with people from all walks of life. After going throu...
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