Volunteer Abroad in the United States

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to help volunteers and local communities around the world. We don't have huge overheads - no company cars, no downtown office - we're just volunteers who knew we could do a better job. Secondly, we work with local organisations wherever we can to keep administration costs to a minimum and also to feed as much money and skills into the local communities where we operate. All of Love Volunteers partner organisations have been fully vetted to ensure that, not only does a genuine need for assistance exist, but that the environments that we place our volunteers are safe and of high quality. Choose from one or more of our 200+ amazing community-based programs in 37 developing countries around the world. Every program has been personally visited by one of our dedicated staff members and is regularly audited to ensure it meets our high standards in terms of safety, sustainability, and local impact.

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Adventure, Purpose, and Connection: Grow, Explore, and Discover Hawai‘i Let Hawai‘i challenge, ground, and inspire you. On this six-week journey, surf world-class waves, hike volcanic landscapes, and swim beneath hidden waterfalls—all while immersing yourself in the living traditions of Hawaiian culture. Beyond adventure, you’ll engage deeply with place and people. Live with local families, learn native crafts, and contribute to conservation projects that protect fragile island ecosystems. Through cultural exchange, leadership workshops, and guided reflection, you’ll gain confidence, resilience, and clarity about your next steps. This program is designed for all paths: a gap year student seeking growth, a traveler looking for a meaningful alternative to study abroad, an ethical explorer focused on sustainability, a skills-builder eager to make an impact, or a cultural immersion seeker wanting an authentic connection. Discover the spirit of aloha and return home with lasting friendships, new perspectives, and a stronger sense of self.

On this Discover Corps Vacation with Purpose, we will venture across the famed Kenai Peninsula to witness the epic beauty of the coast, mountains, and people of Alaska. Along the way, we will take you to leading organizations and introduce you to some of the most dedicated individuals working to protect the wildlife and resources of the 49th state. Learn about puffin conservation at the Alaska Sealife Center, explore creatures of the docks by way of 'belly biology, take a boat to a remote scientific field station, visit an oyster farm (and try the oysters!), and experience the Alaskan dog sledding, riding with a local family that has dedicated their life to this tradition. The Great Exploration across this region of Alaska will show you a side of Alaska that few others experience and provide a deeper sense of what is being done to protect it for future generations.

Explore diverse travel experiences in the USA! Rustic Pathways’ USA programs are designed to offer students impactful and adventurous experiences close to home. From immersing yourself in vibrant local cultures to engaging in meaningful community service, these programs are perfect for developing leadership skills and broadening perspectives. Whether you’re helping rebuild communities in New Orleans or exploring the pristine waters of Hawaii through surf and snorkel adventures, each program is packed with opportunities for growth, connection, and unforgettable memories. Surf, Snorkel, and Service in Hawaii – Join local organizations in preserving Hawaii's biodiversity and enjoy activities like hiking, beach relaxation, and surfing in your free time. Rebuilding New Orleans – Work with local organizations to rebuild homes and join community-building initiatives.

Alaska is known as the last frontier, the land of the midnight sun, and the place where your life will change! This program combines the breathtaking beauty of Alaska, meaningful service work, and adventures that will have the whole family wishing they could come! You’ll visit Homer, one of Alaska’s best-kept secrets near Kenai Fjords National Park. Our Older Teen programs are carefully crafted with 11th and 12th graders in mind. We do not just take our standard programs and open certain dates to an older age group without changing the itineraries. Instead, we understand that older teens require a different type of program, and need itineraries with more challenges and independence to help them grow and encourage even more confidence in traveling. These programs are designed to nurture older teens and teach them to be more savvy travelers. Because as you grow, your interests and needs do too. So get ready to explore the very best the 49th State has to offer, connect with nature and local communities, and learn how to be an independent traveler!

Experience impactful volunteering in one of the various sectors through our USA homestay program. Immerse yourself in American life, contribute to local communities, and gain invaluable cross-cultural understanding. You will live with an American host family while volunteering 25-35 hours/week with non-profits. Our host families are mostly middle-class households providing internet, transportation, free time activities, and a welcoming environment across 18 states. For your volunteer work, you can choose from diverse fields like museums, healthcare, youth centers, community radios, and more. You may also do two volunteer placements. You do not need any prior experience, and at the end of the program, you’ll receive a participation certificate. Your placement with a family and volunteer job is assigned based on your preferred volunteer activity, a detailed questionnaire, a personality test, and a self-introduction letter. For your safety, we are partnering with Cultural Homestay International, which has 40+ years of experience, ensuring participant safety. Furthermore, all host families undergo thorough screening, including interviews, home inspections, and background checks.

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best way to meet people from all over the world. Work project types vary by country but may include environmental and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, educational and language learning, archaeology, organic farming, and arts and festivals. We also have social services projects, which could involve working with children, the elderly, or refugees. Projects are designed to combine service with recreational activities and cultural exchange – whether by visiting local beaches, learning local dances, meeting local officials, or volunteering with residents at the place you’re visiting. Each project is unique, but all bring people together for the most meaningful travel experience imaginable. Please note that VFP can only place US Citizens. This is due to our agreements with our international partners.

Live on an iconic conservation ranch amidst the rolling hills of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in northwestern Montana with a Rocky Mountain backdrop. Engage in diverse volunteer projects as a way to show gratitude to this honorable community for sharing their lives with us. Attend cultural ceremonies, connect with the landscape, and prepare for a powerful experience that will resonate for a lifetime. - True Immersion, Cultural Events & Ceremonies - Glacier National Park, Swimming Holes & Scenic Hikes - Carpentry, Conservation, Animal Care & Social Services

Working and traveling abroad can be an incredible and positive experience, but it can also generate confusion caused by misunderstood norms or unspoken expectations. This confusion and misunderstanding can lead to difficulty in building relationships with people who are different from you. Even though you have good intentions, you can still make mistakes. These mistakes stem from a lack of understanding of cultural differences and the inability to adapt effectively. Beyond Tourism's individual Pre-Travel intercultural Training will explore common cultural values that can lead to confusion, such as direct versus indirect communication, power distance, and collectivism versus individualism. You will take an assessment that evaluates your cultural values. We will compare our results with those of your host culture to identify potential “friction points”. This will give you the confidence you need to make friends and adjust to your new host country. Schedule the training anytime.

The Winter Mental Health & Service Leadership Residency is a 10-day accredited program (January 2–11, 2026 in San Diego, CA, that fuses mental health education, trauma-informed service learning, and intercultural leadership development. Co-designed by mental health advocate Benj Gershman and intercultural strategists Meagan and Scott Holcomb, this residency features organizational psychologist, former therapist, & author Melissa Doman, education activist and former Microsoft executive John Wood, and spoken word artist Demetri Manabat, and offers students from both universities and the world 3–7 transferable credits while engaging in transformative workshops, hands-on community impact, and digital storytelling. From immersive sessions at the Lakehouse Resort to service with local nonprofits and a student-led Docathon showcase, participants will build resilience, leadership skills, and a portfolio that bridges personal growth with professional pathways.

Join Operation Paws for Homes (OPH) to make a significant impact on the lives of rescued dogs and cats. Volunteers support a range of activities, from adoption coordination and event support to fostering and fundraising. This program is perfect for individuals passionate about animal welfare and community service. Responsibilities and opportunities: Adoption Coordination Events Fostering Grants and Fundraising Marketing and Public Relations Transportation Interested volunteers can apply by visiting the Operation Paws for Homes volunteer page. The application process includes an application form and participation in a virtual volunteer orientation. Volunteering with Operation Paws for Homes offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of rescue animals. Your dedication will help provide these pets with the care and support they need to find their forever homes. Join us in our mission to save lives and create happy endings for dogs and cats.

Join Paws With A Cause as a group volunteer to support their mission of providing assistance dogs to individuals with disabilities. Groups can engage in a variety of projects such as constructing equipment, assisting with cleaning, office work, and creating enrichment opportunities for dogs. This program is ideal for corporate teams, clubs, or groups of friends looking for meaningful team-building activities. Responsibilities: Campus Beautification: Garden, paint, and maintain grounds and facilities. Office Help: Assist with clerical tasks like filing and preparing mailings. Canine Enrichment: Create engaging activities for dogs. Cleaning: Support the Care Team by maintaining a clean environment for the dogs. Dog Exercise and Play: Provide exercise and playtime for dogs in outdoor exercise yards. Construction Projects: Help with campus construction projects. Volunteering as a group with Paws With A Cause offers a unique opportunity to support the mission of providing assistance dogs while engaging in team-building activities. Your group's efforts will help improve the lives of individuals with disabilities and create a positive impact on the community.

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation engages communities and partners across the United States to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources within the National Marine Sanctuary System. Through its volunteering program, the Foundation offers opportunities to contribute to conservation and heritage projects, public education and outreach initiatives, and to support advocacy for policy that safeguards marine environments. They are a key advocate for U.S. protected waters, dedicated to conserving marine environments through education, outreach, and community engagement. Volunteers are expected to be passionate about marine conservation, with a willingness to participate in both field and community activities. No specific prior experience is required, though a background in marine biology, environmental policy, or education may be beneficial. Join our efforts at the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation to protect and preserve the nation's marine sanctuaries. Your involvement will not only support marine health and conservation but also empower communities and policymakers to sustainably manage our natural marine resources.

Join Marine Life Studies (MLS) to support marine wildlife research, conservation, and education. Volunteers play a crucial role in various programs including animal care, research, education, and outreach initiatives. Volunteers receive comprehensive training in marine research techniques, animal care, and public engagement. Opportunities for skill development and leadership roles are available. MLS offers a supportive environment with ongoing education and team-building activities. Ideal Candidates: Passionate about marine conservation. Commit to a minimum of six months of service. Reliable, responsible, and able to commit to regular shifts. Good communication skills for educational and outreach roles. Physically fit for fieldwork and animal care tasks. Volunteering with MLS offers the chance to make a significant impact on marine wildlife conservation while gaining valuable skills and experiences. So, join us today!

Become an ASPCA Advocacy Volunteer to help improve laws for animals and mobilize your community. Volunteers work behind the scenes to lobby for animal-friendly legislation, engage in public policy, and support the ASPCA’s mission to protect animals. This program is perfect for those passionate about animal welfare and advocacy. Responsibilities: Regional Advocacy Field Team (RAFT): Lobby for animal-friendly legislation and engage your community. District Captains: Lead local legislative campaigns and collaborate with policymakers. Horse Action Team (HAT): Advocate for equine welfare and support efforts to ban horse slaughter. Driving social media advocacy campaigns Supporting ballot measure work Sending personal letters to your lawmakers Volunteering with the ASPCA Advocacy Volunteer Leader Program offers a unique opportunity to influence public policy and advance animal protection. Join a dedicated team of advocates working to create a better world for animals.

Experience a rewarding and team-building volunteer opportunity at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Located in the stunning red rock canyons of southern Utah, the sanctuary is home to up to 1,600 animals. Volunteers support various projects essential for maintaining the sanctuary grounds and ensuring the safety and well-being of the animals. Responsibilities: Landscaping: Weeding and groundskeeping. Trail Maintenance: Creating and maintaining trails. Animal Care: Mucking pastures and deep cleaning animal areas. Transport Preparation: Preparing vehicles for animal transports. Facilities Upkeep: Sanding and painting projects. Requirements: Minimum age: 14 years (with supervision for minors). Group size: 6-12 people. Physical capability for outdoor tasks. Interested groups can contact Best Friends to arrange volunteer opportunities by emailing [email protected] or calling 435-319-0622. Volunteering as a group at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to contribute to animal welfare while fostering team spirit and camaraderie. Your group's efforts will help ensure the sanctuary remains a safe and welcoming haven for its animal residents.