Nutrition Volunteering in Ghana

I participated in the IVHQ Sea Turtle Nesting Program on Isabela Island from March 31 to April 15, 2025, and it was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. This program combines practical conservation efforts with cultural immersion in one of the most ecologically unique places on earth. Our daily tasks included monitoring sea turtle nests, searching for nesting turtles, collecting scientific data, cleaning up beach debris, and removing invasive plant species that threaten the nesting areas. I worked alongside a wonderful group of international volunteers, knowledgeable local staff, and a park ranger from the Galápagos National Park. The collaborative environment made every day engaging and educational. Scientific Discovery in Action. One of the most emotional and memorable moments came during a nest excavation. As we carefully unearthed the nest, we discovered a single hatchling still making its way out. Watching that tiny turtle begin its journey to the ocean was breathtaking—and witnessing how the scientific data was gathered during the process made the moment even more powerful. The accommodations exceeded my expectations. Staying with a local host family not only gave me a comfortable and welcoming home base but also offered a rich introduction to Ecuadorian culture and daily life. They were incredibly helpful, and the food was fantastic. Eye-Opening Environmental Realities, one of the more surprising aspects of the experience was the amount of trash we encountered on the beaches during our morning patrols. Even though the beach looked clean at first glance, the tides brought in a constant stream of microplastics and debris. It was a stark reminder of the global scope of marine pollution. I would absolutely recommend this program to anyone passionate about marine conservation, sustainability, or environmental science. It’s also ideal for those seeking an adventure that blends purpose with exploration. The Galápagos Islands are a natural wonder, and this program offers a hands-on way to help protect them while learning from dedicated professionals and making lifelong memories.

I had the pleasure of spending a short time in Kumasi, sight seeing, volunteering at a local hospital, and spending time forming relationships with my host family and others. I feel that OGVO provides an excellent opportunity for anyone who may want to be immersed in the Ghanaian culture, and experience life as the Ghanaians do. I was both challenged and blessed throughout my short-duration there and would highly recommend this organization for anyone wanting to volunteer in Ghana and experience and learn of the culture. I also have to give honor to the program Director Frank Odoi who is exceptional. His assistance and communication with his volunteers ensuring their safety, comfort, and great experience during their stay spoke volumes. I am beyond grateful for the time spent, and even more so for the people I've gotten to meet at my host home, as well as the wonderful nurses I've connected with at my project site. If you're looking to affordibly tour or volunteer in Ghana, OGVO is the way to go!