Volunteer Programs 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!

Through my trips with School the World, I have had the opportunity to visit Panama twice and Honduras once. Both countries offered endless beauty, not only through their landscapes but through the people and communities I was fortunate enough to meet. My favorite part of each experience was the genuine kindness and welcoming nature of the communities we worked with. They welcomed us with open arms, shared their stories and traditions, and allowed us to build meaningful connections despite our different backgrounds. I loved being able to find common ground with people who had different experiences than my own and learn from their perspectives. These relationships and the connections I made are what made my time in both countries so memorable.

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 recently had the incredible opportunity to participate in a service trip to Honduras and this experience was amazing, leaving a lasting impact on both the local community and our team members. Our trip organizers ensured that we had a well-rounded experience by arranging cultural immersion activities and excursions. We explored the natural beauty of Honduras like going to the beaches and enjoying the food, traditions, and gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the community. I would recommend participating in this service trip to everyone. Not only will you contribute to the betterment of a community, but you will also experience personal growth, gain a broader perspective, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

I learned so much about myself and others, and was so rewarded by the work. I had so much fun playing with the students as well! School the World is an amazing organization that makes it so easy to give back to the community and engage students in a fun, educational, once in a lifetime experience.

I was super nervous to go on this trip, but as soon as I met the people I was going with on this trip, I knew it was gonna be something to remember. I loved going through Panama City and exploring the markets and the culture, as well as getting to know the people in my group. But my absolute favorite part of the trip was going to the community. I loved hanging out with the kids during recess and after lunch. They brought such a smile to my face and I will never forget any of the memories I made with them. I also throughly enjoyed teaching in the classroom and seeing what their day to day school life entailed, as well as the shadow day. This was one of the best experiences I have ever had in my life, and one I will definitely not forget. I would recommend this trip to anyone and do it again!

I've gone on 2 trips with School The World now and have loved every minute of them. I loved playing with local children for recess, eating authentic food, making friends with the other high schoolers on the trip, practicing Spanish everyday in the community, and seeing all the hard work turn into a school at the end of the week! The staff at STW is amazing, and they make you feel so safe and at home. It's an incredible opportunity to see how people live every day in poorer parts of the world, & I'm so grateful I've had the opportunity to travel with STW twice now.

It was one of the most amazing things I’ve ever done. I loved getting to know the kids and families during my trip. It felt so special being a part of something that could really make a difference in these kids lives. And everyday I was learning from and inspired by the people in the community. Despite the language barrier, I made strong connections with the kids in the community. I had so much fun blowing bubbles and playing with them, all the while learning so much from each of them. It was so fulfilling, and of course the sunsets at the beach and the day in Panama City were incredible as well. I’m so so glad that I went :)

I had a wonderful time on my trip and it was an extremely eye-opening experience to a very rural community that had so much gratitude for our service and for the little things in life. I also made amazing friends that share a passion for service and I would go back in an instant!

I loved traveling with School the World more than anything. This eye-opening opportunity was impactful to my personal growth and introduced me to a new part of the world. The impact our team left in the community will forever be recognized due to the friendships and bonds we made there as well as our dedication and persistance while building a classroom. I didn't want to leave when I was there and now at home I wish I could go back. School the World is something I would encourage everyone to take on. Its betters you in the best possible way and you feel so good about your purpose to help the children. Every single person has the ability to make the world a better place little by little if they choose too. School the World is where dreams come true.