Sports Volunteer Programs

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!

Throughout my placement in Croatia, IVHQ provided me with the relevant help and support needed to make my stay as stress free as possible. I would highly recommend this company and encourage anyone contemplating a placement.

Volunteering in Brazil ranks among the most eye-opening experiences of my life. As an American, spending time there showed me a completely different way of living. The children I worked with had very little compared to what we're used to, yet they were some of the most joyful, welcoming people I've encountered, sprinting out to play soccer and pulling me into their world despite the language barrier between us. That same warmth met me everywhere I turned. Brazilians who spoke almost no English still made me feel like one of their own. From the hostel staff to my coordinator Vivian, whose energy and warmth made her easy to talk to from day one, to my fellow IVHQ volunteers, an international crew I genuinely loved being around and still stay close with today, the sense of belonging never let up. Spending three weeks actually living within a different culture, rather than just passing through it, gave me a new perspective on how vast the world truly is, and how much of what I considered "normal" is really just an American mindset. Success isn't only measured in money, careers, and jobs, the way it often is back home. I watched people define a good life in entirely different terms, and thrive doing it. Beyond the volunteer work itself, I also got to experience Brazil as a country: Christ the Redeemer, its beaches, the favelas, and food unlike anything I'd had before. Exploring the favelas came with its own eye-opening moment. At one point I ended up somewhere I shouldn't have been and found myself surrounded by armed men who weren't police, which was one of the most nerve-racking moments of the entire trip and one where staying calm mattered a lot. It was a stark reminder that real immersion also means staying aware of your surroundings. Even so, it was the mix of giving back to a community and fully experiencing a new place, harder moments included, that made the trip what it was. If I could give one piece of advice to anyone doing this program, it would be to go in with an open mind and stay grounded in who you are. Arriving in Brazil was eye-opening in ways I didn't expect, from the buildings to the visible poverty, it forces you to see a version of the world you don't encounter at home. Don't let the language barrier scare you off either. I remember stepping off the plane and realizing almost no one around me spoke English, and I didn't speak a word of Portuguese. It was intimidating at first, but it stops being a barrier once you let yourself lean into it. The pace of life there is different too, and in a good way. It's slower, more grounded, more cultured. There isn't that constant rush to get to the next thing that I feel so often living in America, and honestly, that shift was one of the best parts of the experience. The culture is incredibly welcoming overall, but I'd still tell people to stay aware, especially in the favelas or any unfamiliar area. Most people you meet will be genuinely kind, but not everyone has good intentions, so pay attention to where you are and who's around you. Go in open-minded and respectful, but don't let that openness turn into carelessness. Volunteering abroad is something I'd recommend to anyone, and something I'd do again and again.

My internship at the Salesian Institute Youth Projects pushed me far beyond what I expected, taking me from supporting program logistics to independently running counseling sessions and managing my own client caseload within just a few months. I was trusted with real responsibility early on, from leading a group of 45 adult learners on my own to adapting a therapeutic intervention on short notice for an urgent client referral, and that trust taught me more about clinical work and resilience than I could have learned in a classroom. This experience confirmed that clinical psychology, particularly cross-cultural and community-based care, is exactly the path I want to pursue.

Throughout all days in here, I came to realise a lot of important facts and elements of this country and region. Every program activities is memorable and make me being more interested in the situation and reality. Moreover, every people I met in this city is quite nice to me, and I could have an unforgettable days. I was really honored to be here and hope that I come back to my friends soon!

Connect-123 made my experience in Ireland truly incredible. From the beginning, they did an amazing job matching me with a company that fit my personality, interests, and career goals. I couldn’t have asked for a better internship experience. They also did a great job planning weekend trips around Ireland, giving me the opportunity to explore different parts of the country and make unforgettable memories along the way. Overall, Connect-123 made my time in Ireland an amazing experience both professionally and personally.

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.

My internship has been the best experience I could have ever asked for. My co-workers are what made my time there so memorable. Connect-123 made the entire process smooth and easy, especially Antonella and Xena. They were both so kind, supportive, and helpful every step of the way. I’m so grateful I got to meet my program group, it was truly an amazing 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.

Volunteering with Anointed Vessels Christian School was a truly rewarding experience. As a journalist, I had the opportunity to mentor and train the school's media team on effective storytelling, photography, videography, interviewing, and content creation. It was encouraging to see their passion for sharing the inspiring stories of the children and the impact the school is making in the community. Beyond the media training, I was touched by the dedication of the staff and the joy of the students. The school provides quality education, care, and hope to orphaned and vulnerable children on Mfangano Island. I appreciated being able to contribute my professional skills to strengthen their communication efforts so that more people around the world can learn about their mission. I highly recommend Anointed Vessels Christian School to anyone looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity where their skills can make a lasting difference. The experience was inspiring, welcoming, and deeply fulfilling

Volunteering at Anointed Vessels Christian School was one of the most meaningful experiences have had. During my visit, our team had the privilege of washing the students' feet, mentoring them, donating school shoes, and sharing meal together. These moments allowed us to connect with the children on a personal level and demonstrate Christ's love through practical service. I was inspired by the dedication of the school' leadership who work tirelessly to provide quality education, nutritious meals, and hope to orphaned children on Mfangano Island. The children were joyful, respectful, eager to learn despite many challenges they face. This experience reminded me that even simple acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. I highly recommend Anointed Vessels Christian Schoolto anyone looking for a genuine volunteer opportunity where they can make a real difference while learning about the local community and culture.

I learnt so much about the realities of life in Palestine at Go Palestine, but from a place of relative comfort. The centre is in the heart of the city of Hebron, and from here, it's relatively easy to get to places such as Hebron Old Town (where the Ibrahimi Mosque or Cave of the Patriarchs is), the farming village of Al Burj, Al-Aroub Refugee Camp. My favourite aspect of my experience are the people. I was only here one week but now it feels like I'm leaving my family. Can't wait to come back.

Coming to Barcelona with Connect 123 was one of the best decisions I've made. They were incredibly helpful in helping find me an internship I felt comfortable and confident in and always very communicative. The housing they provided was amazing, and in a great location. Barcelona is now one of my favorite cities

As my time in Ireland comes to a close, I want to thank Connect-123 for partnering with Bucknell University to provide students like me with an opportunity like this. As an undergraduate, it can often feel stressful trying to gain relevant work experience while preparing for your future career. Thanks to Connect-123, I was placed with a company in a field aligned with my career goals, allowing me to grow professionally while exploring a new part of the world. This experience has given me valuable workplace experience, unforgettable memories, and a greater appreciation for living and working abroad. Thank you for making it possible!

This experience has been nothing short of incredible. I will forever be grateful for this opportunity. My internship could not have been a more perfect match. I have gained not only new skills but also a new perspective as well. Outside of the internship, exploring this beautiful city has been so fun. Carla, the program coordinator, is one of the most amazing people I have ever had the privilege of meeting. She planned the most fun activities for our group and was truly invested in our well-being!

Following this program was a unique experience that I will never forget. I thought it gave a great balance of working at my internship, meeting new people, and exploring the new country. The opportunities each weekend gave great insights and experiences to explore outside of where we were staying and i highly recommend going to each one.

Coming from the busy city of London, this was a fantastic experience to open my mind, get to know a festinating culture while being able to reach out to people in need and support this honest, small charity led by Ivan. I have been able to learn a lot about the food, the way of living and about the people in Uganda thanks to BID. I was able to learn how to make bricks for the organization, plant vegetables for food supply and visit villages where vulnerable people are helped and women are empowered thanks to BID Uganda.