Health Volunteer Programs in Asia

I joined the CFHI Program, Global Health in the Philippines for 4 weeks, during the month of July, 2026 and I received the Friends of the Philippines scholarship. To be able to join a program such as this was an honor for me. It was a wonderful journey, with a great group of people to be with. CFHI has provided plenty for us during the course of the program and made sure that we were able to soak in the Philippines' beauty, culture, and healthcare. As a Filipino, I appreciate how we got to share our first-hand experiences to our companions from abroad. One of the students with us was also studying medicine, and we appreciated how we were using almost the same materials for our respective degrees. It did not matter whether she was studying in the US, or we were studying in the Philippines, although some information might be tweaked, for example, for diseases endemic to our countries. The girls we were with for the program were just the loveliest of people to be with, along with the local communities that we went to for the program. Our group went to the municipality of Torrijos in Marinduque. During our stay at the municipality, we were not only exposed to the RHU (Rural Health Unit), but because they had an ongoing Barangay Caravan, we also were able to explore different places in the municipality. As an aspiring physician here in the Philippines, it was a great experience to be able to shadow local doctors in the area, knowing that I would be doing the same thing in the future. We got tips on how to talk to patients, how to interact with the locals, and most importantly, how to handle medicine in areas far from the capital. It was a sad realization to hear that the municipality lacked equipment for crucial diagnosis, but we knew that the doctors there are doing their best of their capabilities to provide care for the people despite the disadvantage. Dr. Gellie Ocampo, our local preceptor made sure that we were well taken care of while we were staying there at the island. Ma'am Joan Azares, and her daughter Marnie Azares took us in as guests at their house, and they could not have been more hospitable. To them, we are most grateful for ensuring that we have a roof above our heads and meals to eat that they so lovingly prepared. Before we even got to the island, Ma'am Anabelle Rioflorido made sure that we were safe on the journey from Manila to the homestay in Marinduque. Finally, I would also like to share my gratitude to Dr. Paulo Medina, and Ms. Mae for making sure that the whole program would be smooth and there would not be any mishaps. I am just so immensely happy to be able to participate in such a program, and I hope CFHI is able to continue giving scholarships for deserving students to get in the program. All the best for Child Family Health International!

I was, probably like some of you, a bit sceptical when initially applying due to the low price compared to other organisations. However, the experience I had was absolutely amazing and I have learnt so much about not only myself, but about different cultures and etiquettes. My program manager, Marissa, was absolutely fantastic at answer all of my questions and adjusting any mistakes I submitted onto my application such as flight number and pick-up time. Despite the huge time difference between Marissa and myself, she was able to reply to my email promptly and with extreme care - I was really at ease throughout the whole process and that made the experience a bunch better. Everything on my volunteering was as described on the program guide and there were no surprises when I landed, everything that happened during my week I was prepared for. I would really recommend this company and I want to thank them once more for the fantastic and truly life-changing experience they provided for me.

I had such a wonderful experience in Split! I met so many amazing people from different countries and made memories that I will definitely never forget. The Youth Support program gave me the opportunity to connect with the local community, experience a different culture and grow personally at the same time. The local team was very welcoming and supportive and I always felt comfortable asking questions or getting help when needed. I especially loved the international atmosphere and meeting people with completely different backgrounds and stories.besides volunteering, I had enough time to explore Split, enjoy the beautiful beaches and nature and experience Croatian culture. This experience helped me step outside my comfort zone, become more independent and see things from new perspectives. I’m really grateful for all the people I met and everything I experienced during my time here. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to travel, volunteer, meet new people and create unforgettable memories abroad. ❤️

The support and organization of IVHQ was strong and great. Traveling and volunteering with a family of five, with 3 Jr High School kids but was amazing. Very comfortable and things were laid out well, we all felt extremely safe and comfortable the entire experience.

The preparation before trip was so detailed that I don’t have anything to worry about. It got everything listed and made it so much easier to tick off what I’ve done and what they need. The communication with the manager for the volunteer was so smooth and fast, and I was able to get a reply current evening or next morning (due to different timing in different countries). I wanted to change my volunteer from rural teaching to turtle reservation, it was so fast that there wasn’t any problems with the money nor arrangements, everything just went so smoothly, really impressed. The local team there really helped a lot, the driver, the leader, everyone was just so nice, even the cook and the receptionist. This volunteer as itself also helped me a lot on raising awareness for the sea turtles, learnt a lot and really hope to help them consistently. This is such a memorable trip and I hope to do these volunteers with IVHQ next summer with my friends.

My Jamaica experience was great because it allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, connect with new people, and make meaningful memories while serving others. I loved being able to learn about the culture, build relationships with the local community, and see the impact that small acts of kindness can have. The experience challenged me to grow in my faith, gratitude, and appreciation for the opportunities I have. It was rewarding to work alongside others who shared the same passion for helping people and creating a positive difference. IVHQ does a great job of creating opportunities for volunteers to make a meaningful impact while also providing support and guidance throughout the experience. They help connect volunteers with local communities, organize programs, and make it possible for people to serve in a way that is safe and structured. I appreciated how they allowed us to experience the culture of Jamaica while still focusing on helping the community. Their organization made the trip feel purposeful and helped create an environment where volunteers could learn, serve, and grow.

My experience with IVHQ absolutely exceeded my expectations and was so amazing, the staff were so friendly and really created a positive and welcoming environment, i felt safe and included by all the other volunteers, my only regret is not staying longer! I will definitely be back in the future!

I decided to do this as part of my sabbatical from work. I had neither travelled solo nor done volunteering overseas before but this experience taught me that it is something that I am capable of doing. The experience that I had working with the locals was invaluable and gave me great insight into their lives. The children that I worked with were also very enjoyable and brought me much laughter. Administratively, the IVHQ staff that I dealt with were a great support; they were very detailed and responsive to my queries during the enquiry and preparation stages. Instructions were clear and they had a good system going. This is certainly something that I would consider doing again (if I can get time away from work).

My highlight was definitely getting to know the community and getting a glimpse of what the rural lifestyle is like. People were so grateful and delighted to see volunteers, and you can feel the impact you are having on the community. My highlight was spreading knowledge of what I learned in nursing school to less-experienced volunteers. The food and accommodation were so amazing. The staff was very accommodating and the sweetest.

Overall I had an amazing experience with Ivhq. I volunteered in Cape Town South Africa and I have never been so in love with a place. The culture and the people are truly amazing. I volunteered in a town ship with grade three and loved every minute of it! The kids are so kind and you can tell they truly love the help you have to offer. This experience will forever have such a big impact on me and changed me as a person. I would definitely recommend this to anyone:)

I have already done 3 programs with IVHQ, and this is just the beginning! Costa Rica to teach English, Fiji for childcare, and Thailand to teach. Each program has been magical! The experience is supported, from the application process through post program reflection, and everything in between. Safety, support, encouragement, insight, and perspective are all the things IVHQ provides and more! You get to meet people from around the world, and then come together for a common purpose. Already planning my next adventure, and I can't wait!

I loved my experience in Bali Indonesia and booking through IVHQ! It was the best trip getting to meet people from all over the world and travel around Bali learning about the culture and trying so many new things. I worked on the Health Education project teaching students in local schools. It was so easy to book this two week trip and navigate the site to find a program that was right for me and connected to my major of dietetics/nutrition and find a location that I was excited about that had it all. I would definitely book through IVHQ again and I’m so excited to think about the next possible program I’ll go on or the new people I’ll meet in the future!

I havnt got any complaints from my trip through IVHQ. Every single part of the trip was perfect from the organisation to the welcoming coordinators. I’m only 17 but I felt so safe and supported through the whole process. Thank you for this opportunity!

My volunteer experience in Thailand was truly rewarding. The program was well-organized, and the staff were supportive throughout. What stood out most was the real impact—even small contributions made a difference in the local community. It also helped me grow personally by becoming more adaptable, independent, and open-minded. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone considering volunteering abroad.

Teaching in Ubud, Bali was one of the most beautiful and meaningful experiences of my life. I came expecting to help and give, but I ended up receiving so much more. The children were incredibly kind, respectful, and full of joy. What impacted me the most was how grateful they were for everything;even the smallest things. They would smile constantly, show affection in the purest ways, and even gift me candies as a way to say thank you. Those small gestures meant more than they probably realized. Every day felt special. Being able to connect with them, teach them, laugh with them, and see their excitement to learn was something I will never forget. The environment was welcoming, and the staff made everything smooth and supportive, allowing us to truly focus on making a difference. This experience changed my perspective in the best way possible. It reminded me how powerful kindness, gratitude, and human connection can be. I will always carry these memories with me, and I’m beyond grateful to have been part of something so real and meaningful.

I am very grateful to have participated in this project. I am returning from my assignment at the Philippine schools with somewhat mixed emotions, though the experience was deeply moving and rewarding in many ways. I was deeply impressed by the locals' positive mindset. The community welcomed me with smiles, and the students were grateful and respectful. Furthermore, I was enchanted by the beautiful surroundings at both locations. The stunning scenery, with its pristine beaches and palm trees, provided wonderful opportunities for swimming and relaxing after work. It was the perfect backdrop to unwind. A major highlight was the excellent support at the volunteer camp. The local team did an outstanding job, and I felt very comfortable and well-cared for. • Catering: The cook prepared truly delicious meals every day. • Maintenance: The cleaning staff kept the rooms spotless, and the gardens were always perfectly maintained. • Support: The coordinators and support staff were reliable, professional, and incredibly kind. Their efforts made the camp feel like a home away from home.

The local guides informed us of a beautiful name for their islands, “The Enchanted Islands”. Given on account of their difficulty to find back in the days of ships and nautical exploration (pre-flight). Such an incredible opportunity to care for unique and endangered gentle creatures. Work was meaningful and rewarding, play time was abundant and fulfilling. One of the most beautiful places I have encountered on this Earth. IVHQ does a tremendous job preparing the traveler for what to expect.

I recently completed a medical program experience in Faridabad (Delhi) with IVHQ. I would absolutely use them again for any future volunteering I may do and certainly recommend them to anyone else thinking about trying volunteering. The experience with IVHQ was excellent from the very beginning. Easy to use website. Clear information. Fair pricing. The preparation checklist left no room for errors and created a sense of confidence in the program and process before leaving home. There was clear support before leaving, while away and follow up when arriving home. It makes you feel that IVHQ genuinely care about your experience which is a great thing. We were well looked after in our home stay and had the best group during our stay. I’m 52, the eldest volunteer at the time was 77, the youngest 24, but we all had a common goal which is a great starting point. If you are considering volunteering I’d say go for it! With a one week option in lots of programs you can’t go wrong. I absolutely loved my whole time away and have already started looking into my next trip.

I enjoyed meeting new people from around the world and the fact that we were in the middle of the city like a local which gave it very realistic feel. A Medical internship with Intern Abroad HQ is such a thorough and amazing experience for those who want to travel and learn in their field.

It was by far the best volunteer experience I have done I only wish I could have stayed longer. The culture and food was so amazing and everyone was so welcoming and friendly. This experience I will remember for the rest of my life and have made so many amazing friendships.