Community Development Volunteering in Panama

I cannot recommend working with Give and Surf more. Overall the experience is fulfilling and super fun! A huge part of the success of my visit was the flexibility and supportiveness of the staff - they make traveling abroad and living in a new place a really smooth experience! Another thing that is extremely important to me when traveling or working with organizations abroad is that the organization is ethical, and I can unequivocally say that you can feel good about working with Give and Surf because it is community embedded, in it for the long haul, stable, and collaborative. The work they do is greatm and the experience they provide is worth it!

Give & Surf is such a special organization, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been able to volunteer with them multiple times. Every visit has been such a rewarding experience—not only because of the incredible work they’re doing, but because of the amazing people who make the program what it is. I’ve formed genuine friendships with several of the teachers and staff, and some have become lifelong friends. There’s such a strong sense of community, kindness, and purpose within Give & Surf. It’s one of those organizations that stays with you long after you leave, and I feel very lucky to have been a small part of it. I would highly recommend getting involved or volunteering if you ever have the opportunity!

My trip to Panama with School the World was truly an eye-awakening experience. Growing up in a suburban town near Boston, I lacked depth on what life outside of the United States looked like. Through traveling with School the World, I understood the challenges that communities faced that lived in rural poverty firsthand. I was able to make a direct impact on the community through concrete making and playing with the children during recess. Furthermore, the STW community itself was beautiful, as I formed formidable connections with others who were working towards the same goal as me, and by going to the beach at sunset, washing the paint and dirt from the day's hard work. It was an opportunity that began to lay down the path of what I would want to pursue going into college. This service trip is one that I would recommend to anyone!!!

During this trip, provided through School the World, I had the amazing opportunity to meet and interact with children that I later realized lived completely different lives that I do. I got to witness the difficulties that go with their day-to-day lives as I realized how privileged I am to have all of the resources I do. But during this I also realized one important thing - these kids aren't looking for sympathy, they are looking for opportunity. With School the World, these children get the opportunities that could cost a lifetime of working. School the World has done a remarkable job and I'm so grateful that I was able to witness the work with my own eyes. Kaylle Alves

Volunteering in Panama was such an amazing experience that taught me so much about new culture, education, and privledge. It is truly a trip like no other and completely immerses you in the most pure and kind community with the best people. Doing hard work and seeing the impact of your time and dedication is so rewarding! This trip was so impactful to me and I believe it is something everyone should experience and learn from!

I enjoyed some of the activites , but not others. The rivre walk and the walk to the koppies was 10/10. No intrenet was challenging , so 7/10. Jane , Precious , Patrick and Lucas were 10/10. I woul recommend this project to anyone who needs a detox from Social media.

New culture, new people, New Life. When we exchange our perspectives, ideas and plans to make a world better place for everyone. It's good to go different places it helps me view life in many directions

Hice 5 años en haiti, me se su idioma, se toda su cultura, me gustaría volver y apoyarlos en todas las dificultades que tienen, ya que ameritan mucha ayuda de todos nosotros, para ellos poder sobrevivir

I would really like to volunteer. I am passionate about charity and showing kindness to the world. Please, give me a chance. Kindly provide Certificate of sponsorship too since I'm not able to provide for myself at the moment. Kindly put my request into consideration.

This an increasingly popular way for individuals to make a meaningful impact in communities around the world. With numerous organizations offering volunteer programs, it's essential to review and research these opportunities to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. *Pros:* 1. *Cultural Immersion*: Living and working with local communities provides an immersive cultural experience. 2. *Skill Development*: Volunteers can develop new skills and gain experience in areas such as teaching, conservation, and community development. 3. *Networking Opportunities*: Volunteers can connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. 4. *Personal Growth*: Volunteering abroad can be a transformative experience, fostering personal growth and self-awareness. *Cons:* 1. *Cost*: Many volunteer programs come with a hefty price tag, which can be a barrier for some. 2. *Safety Concerns*: Volunteers may face safety risks, such as health concerns or political instability, depending on the destination. 3. *Cultural Differences*: Adapting to local customs and way of life can be challenging for some volunteers. 4. *Quality of Programs*: Some volunteer programs may lack structure, support, or meaningful work, leading to a disappointing experience. *Recommendations:* 1. *Research Thoroughly*: Investigate the organization, program, and destination to ensure a safe and rewarding experience. 2. *Read Reviews*: Look for reviews from past volunteers to gain insight into the program's quality and challenges. 3. *Choose a Reputable Organization*: Select an organization with a proven track record, transparent policies, and adequate support for volunteers. 4. *Prepare Yourself*: Culturally, emotionally, and physically prepare yourself for the experience to ensure a smooth transition. By being aware of the pros and cons, doing thorough research, and choosing a reputable organization, volunteers can have a safe, rewarding, and life-changing experience abroad.

As a Social worker i often meet with clients to assess their needs, provide counseling, and develop individualized plans to address their challenges. This could involve sessions with individuals, families, or groups.

I volunteered with Give & Surf back in 2013 when the program was in its infancy. I was there for a month. There were some bumps in the road during that month, but that said, the leadership was open to my feedback and suggestions. The interactions with the students and community were amazing! My fellow volunteers were simply the best. When I had an eye infection it was dealt with quickly and easily. There was a great balance of free time, adventure and work. I know the program has matured and only gotten stronger. I’d go back in a heartbeat if I could!

I probably had one of the best experiences of my life in Natuwa for a month, feeding the many animals that live there, taking care of them, discovering a different way of life than mine, more minimalist and peaceful. Rodolfo is an extremely understanding man who cares about the well-being of his voluntarios. We had the chance to do several extra activities outside the centre, such as snorkeling near to Isla Tortuga, or swimming at night with bioluminescent planktons, which were dazzling. The workteam is really friendly and allows you to feel integrated quickly and easily. However, you have to expect to work hard sometimes, for example planting trees, doing work to maintain the infrastructure, but this is only a part of the day. outside the centre

The service and cultural immersion taught me so much about how other people live and the impact you can have on people and nature. It taught me not to take things for granted. I also learned how I function with a group.

I came to Costa Rica because I wanted to try something new, and scuba diving was definitely one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. We had the best instructors I could ask for, and I learned that I should be more grateful for the little things at home.

The relationships with my coursemates and instructors were incredible. I never thought that I would know all of these people like I do now. They are true friends because we went through thick and thin in the past two weeks. I wouldn’t change a thing — my course was awesome. I learned that if I try to see the positive in things, it will lift up the group and myself.

The time I spent in Dubai, Oman and Abdul Dhabi, I have a wonderful and experiential Joy with the people and I was able to showcased my skills and the people explore my knowledge to their satisfaction Little details of my experience Dubai Falcon Ballroom Hotel which was so great. Even more perfect was the fact that they had thought of everything in advance, I didn’t need to remind them I needed a fresh bed shread in the room (which I did have to do twice at the local hotel I stayed in my country, more on this later) as they had already taken care of that prior to our arrival. The bed, oh the bed! It was dreamy in every way, the most comfortable place I’ve ever laid in, and the most restful sleep I had had in years, and sometimes teary nighttime awakenings. some things can’t be helped…oh, the joys of travelling with flight Emirate is spectacular. A night between those bed-sheets really restores and rebalances you. I had excellent views directly facing the Mall of the Emirate and part of the pool below (if you stretched your neck). Everything in the room was spotlessly clean and looked brand new. The desk was comfortable for planning my daily routes on our my map.

August 8th, 2018, I went to Thailand for the highest skydiving constitution in Asian. At the time, when I put on heavy equipment, I was super nervous, so I paid hundreds percent concentration on training. All set down, I followed the coach to get on the helicopter and had a big swallow before taking off. On the way to five thousand inches high, my hand still stuck the edge of seat tightly. It's the real time when I hardly moved right to the open door, my foot suspended in the midair and smash wind make me hard to breathe. Without struggle, I was pushed to jump with closing eyes and opening mouth. Actually, I screamed loudly but heard nothing. The parachute opened in seconds successfully and everything went as well as training. When I stood steadily on the cloud, I touched the soft clouds, astonished by the beautiful view of Phuket Island---golden-green fields are surrounded by the sea blue, trail of the train intersect through the landscape, cars running on the roads are as tiny as ants moving foods. Swinging back to the ground, I was so proud of myself and at the same time, I was so excited about the astonishing views in the sky.

In my 30 years of experience as a professional nurse I have worked in comprehensive patient care and I know everything related to the area of ​​health. Now I am retired and my great desire is to help people in need.

Volunteer World gave me the opportunity to find a project that suited me. They have plenty of projects and there is something for everyone! You meet amazing people. You get to know the country and the culture through te locals. You connect immedeatly with the other volunteers and experience this amazing trip together. I'm already looking for my next experience with them.