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Refugee Relief Volunteer Programs

Want to make a real impact? Combine travel with helping the most vulnerable by volunteering abroad with refugee relief projects. Every day, thousands flee their homes due to natural disasters, war, or persecution. Neighboring countries struggle to accommodate these displaced populations, creating a high demand for international volunteers. With millions of refugees worldwide, many from Syria, Afghanistan, and Somalia, the global crisis remains both pressing and complex.
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48 Refugee Relief Volunteer Programs

Maximo Nivel volunteers

Featured Provider of the Month

9.5487 reviews

MAXIMO NIVEL

Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America

Maximo Nivel is a locally based organization in Costa Rica, Guate...

91 reviews

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

Israel - Food Baskets for Families

Join us in Israel and provide humanitarian aid by lending a helpi...

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9.4457 reviews

The Intern Group

Internships & Volunteer Programs in London

The Intern Group provides you with top internships in London! Par...

9.55793 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 9...

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81 reviews

Roots Interns

Community Development Internship Abroad

Make a direct contribution to positive change by supporting local...

00 reviews

Jakera: Learn Spanish, Volunteer and Adventure

Cuba & Costa Rica – 8 Weeks Travel Adventure

This program offers a full 8-week "All In" experience combining a...

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9.41296 reviews

Projects Abroad

Global Leader In Meaningful Travel. Trusted By 130,000

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose....

00 reviews

Love Volunteers

Women's Rescue Center Program in Nairobi, Kenya

The mission of this program is to support the women of Nairobi wh...

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9.28109 reviews

Excellence Center in Europe

Volunteer to Teach English & Study German (1-12 Weeks)

Volunteers taking part in short-term volunteer projects in German...

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9.5149 reviews

The Excellence Center in Palestine

Volunteer Projects In Palestine In 2025

Volunteer Projects In Palestine In 2025: The Excellence Center/En...

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1024 reviews

The Palestinian Center - Go Palestine

Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in Palestine 2025
Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees

The Volunteer with Palestinian Refugees program is a valuable and...

8.6916 reviews

Volunteer World

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...

9.758 reviews

GoBeyond Student Travel

GoBeyond - Global Community Service Adventures for Teens

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and...

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9.6913 reviews

Carpe Diem Education

Southeast Asia Semester | Carpe Diem Education Gap Year

A region accentuated by the colorful robes of Buddhist monks, the...

9.54 reviews

Connect-123 Internship Programs

Volunteer in Cape Town with Connect-123!

Make a difference while experiencing one of the most breathtaking...

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104 reviews

Vocational Impact

Law and Human Rights Programme in South Africa

Gain practical legal experience while making a meaningful contrib...

102 reviews

WorldStrides

Community Engagement in Meknes, Morocco

Known as the "Versailles of Morocco," Meknes is home to a beautif...

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92 reviews

Euroace

Gap Year Volunteer and Experiential Learning with Euroace

Are you looking for a chance to volunteer abroad while gaining va...

9.54 reviews

Global Works

Spain Service Programs

Spain attracts travelers with its old-world charm and vibrant peo...

00 reviews

Volunteering Journeys

Teach English Abroad with Volunteering Journeys

Inspire, Educate & Empower Communities Across the World Are you ...

A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Refugee Relief

Prepare for Volunteering

Understand the benefits

More than the experience, it’s the sense of fulfillment that will keep you wanting to volunteer again and again. What are the benefits that come with this? Take a quick read to find out:

  • Pick up new skills. Volunteering helps you develop skills like time management, problem-solving, and teamwork, enhancing both your resume and personal growth.
  • Experience new cultures. You’ll learn about new traditions and ways of life, making it easier to adapt and connect with others, even across language barriers.
  • Make lasting connections. Working with people from different backgrounds will help you build meaningful relationships and create lasting memories.

Things to know

Volunteering in refugee relief requires preparation to maximize your impact. Here’s what to consider:

  • Prepare for the challenges - Be ready for demanding and emotionally intense situations, and stay resilient.
  • Language requirements - Knowing the local language, even at a basic level, can enhance your effectiveness and experience.
  • Budget and costs - Research the cost of living and any additional expenses. Accommodation may be provided but other costs like food and travel may not.
  • Health and safety - Stay informed about regulations, get necessary vaccinations, and have an emergency plan.
  • Cultural sensitivity - Learn about local customs and societal norms beforehand to integrate and work effectively within the community.

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

IVHQ Christmas Program in Guatemala

November 26, 2025by: Patty Urda - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
10

I volunteered with IVHQ for their Christmas program in Antigua, Guatemala. This was my first experience with IVHQ and I will definitely volunteer with them again. I stayed with a local family who were kind, thoughtful and made me feel right at home. The accommodations were modest but clean and comfortable. The Christmas program was a great experience because we had the opportunity to do a variety of activities including working with seniors and children, picking coffee beans, and a cultural immersion. I appreciate that IVHQ partners with local organizations on the ground.

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