Volunteer Programs in Zambia

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47 Volunteer Programs in Zambia

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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. ...
See All 7 Programs

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
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GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 20...
See All 5 ProgramsAfrican Impact
4.56
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Girls are a powerful force for change in Africa, so investing in adolescent girls is essential to reducing poverty, improving health, and encouraging future economic growth. The Girl Impact initiative of African Impact aims to provide opportunities for adolescent girls in Zambia through education, h
See All 8 ProgramsLove Volunteers
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This wonderful project was created to improve the educational opportunities for young children in Mwandi. It focuses on teaching English, an essential language in the area and crucial for securing future employment. Introducing English at a formative age greatly increases children's chances of gaini
See All 3 ProgramsVolunteer World
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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 g
See All 2 ProgramsKaya Responsible Travel
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Join our Girl and Women Empowerment Volunteering project, and assist those who have had no access to education but wish to make better future for themselves and their families. Volunteer with an international team in Zambia. These women want to be able to read and to communicate in English with the
See All 4 ProgramsPlanet Aid
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Planet Aid, in collaboration with Richmond Vale Academy (RVA), is seeking passionate and motivated individuals to join the People to People Volunteer Program. This unique 10-month program offers the chance to make a real impact by addressing global issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate cha
See All 5 ProgramsRoots Interns
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Are you looking to combine your passion for female empowerment with your love of education? Join us at the Baobuyu Learning Center, a nonprofit that works right outside Victoria Falls. This organization is a multipurpose community center. In addition to being a preschool in the morning, a school off
See All 9 ProgramsSimoonga Thandizani Trust School
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Inspire the next generation in this volunteer project with Simoonga Thandizani Trust School. The school is a community-based institution that serves the educational needs of Simoonga Village, 17 kilometers away from Livingstone Town. The school welcomes visitors who want to experience the authentic
Natucate
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Become a conservation volunteer in Zambia and help collect essential conservation data and protect orphaned elephants gradually released back into the wild as part of our partner’s release program. During your three-week volunteer adventure, you will spend each week in a different location in this f
Humana Volunteers
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Humana People to People is a global humanitarian movement operating in 46 countries with 30 organizations, reaching over 17.9 million people worldwide. Our work focuses on education, health, sustainable agriculture, and community development The program 10 months. 3 stages. 1. Training (3 months –
Centre for Advancement of Youth Empowerment (CAYE)
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CAYE is a registered youth charitable organization in Mzuzu, Malawi. Established in 2014, CAYE works in the Northern Region and parts of the Central Region to empower young people, women, and small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development. CAYE focuses on yo
A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Zambia
Why Volunteer Abroad in Zambia
Due to Zambia’s stability and its progress in reforming its economy and social institutions, and because it is a relatively compact country (about the size of Texas) with a solid urban center, there is a chance for volunteers to witness the real progress they are making as a volunteer in Zambia overtime. Aid organizations that operate in Zambia have the freedom to focus on their mission without fear of government disruption or violence against their workers, the same cannot be said about organizations in all African nations. Zambia is also a good choice for those without extensive language skills. Though there are over 70 languages and dialects spoken in the country, the official language of Zambia is English, and it is used in all schools, businesses, and medical facilities.
Locations
Lusaka. A city of about 1.75 million, Lusaka is the capital of Zambia, and is absorbing more people quickly as the country’s economy changes and the city urbanizes. An increasing population combined with the country’s high HIV/AIDS rate and refugees arriving from neighboring countries, there is a concentration of need for social services in Lusaka. The city is home to dozens of orphanages, day care centers, schools, and shelters for children, so if volunteering with children is your main interest, volunteering in Lusaka is a good starting point.
Livingstone. Due its proximity to Victoria Falls and other natural attractions, Livingstone is the closest thing to a tourist town in Zambia. But it is also a center for the country’s emerging wildlife conservation efforts, especially efforts to rehabilitate and restore the wild lion population.
Choma is a business, commercial, and agricultural center of about 400,000 on a direct route between Lusaka to Livingstone, and also home to the Macha Mission Hospital, which provides acute care, HIV/AIDS services, and a community outreach wellness program. There are also several youth outreach programs that concentrate on health, and particularly reproductive, issues. It is an area to consider if your interest is in community health and wellness services, or AIDS prevention.
Volunteering in Zambia
Child Services. Due to the geography of Zambia (it shares a border with eight nations, many of them troubled), its high HIV/AIDS rate, the prevalence of water and foodborne diseases, and the high rate of poverty, Zambia has more than its fair share of orphans and children in distress. Individuals with experience or an interest in all areas of child services, from infant specialists and day care workers to teachers and mental health specialists, will find plenty of opportunities to volunteer in Zambia. Volunteering in Zambia with children may range from a few weeks to years, with teachers generally working for at least a semester worth of time.
Land Management & Agriculture. Poor agricultural techniques, uncertain land ownership regulations, entrenched poverty, and a climate with extreme moisture and temperature swings have historically contributed to damaging environmental practices and big game poaching. Educational programs are underway to change the mindset of farmers and poachers, and provide economically feasible alternatives, such as training poachers as wildlife rangers, organic farmers, beekeepers, carpenters, and other tradesmen. Efforts to provide market outlets for “Snareware,” decorative jewelry made from the snare wire that once was used for poaching, are also developing. Projects focused on tree planting, organic farming, and sustainability are also commom.
Medical & Health Care Services. Doctors and nurses are always needed to volunteer in Zambia, especially where there is an extreme combination of poverty and high rates of HIV infection. But there is also a need for volunteers who are willing, but less highly skilled, to work with traveling medical teams, doing home visits, taking care of non-emergency patients, and helping to educate underserved families and the elderly about nutrition, disease prevention, and basic hygienic practices.
Costs & Affordability
If you’re truly working as a volunteer in Zambia you will obviously not be paid, but your housing and most of your living expenses, such as food and transportation, will be taken care of. You’ll have to budget for extra expenses, like personal items and gift shopping, though. Generally, you negotiate the terms of your service with the group you plan to work with before you leave home, and the organization or trip coordinator will tell you what’s included and what isn’t. Normally, you will pay your own airfare, and the organization you volunteer with provides in-country transportation, housing arrangements, and placement assurance, which sometimes comes at an additional cost.
Accommodations & Visas
Since nearly all of the volunteer work in Zambia is coordinated by aid groups, and because those groups have the blessing of and cooperation of the government, most individuals who volunteer in Zambia will have visa and any certification application paperwork handled by their volunteer organization.
The accommodations available vary widely, depending on which part of the country you are volunteering in Zambia and whether it’s a rural or urban setting. Most often, especially in rural settings, housing is shared in a bunkhouse or community building. In cities some apartments are available for volunteers, but the housing is still generally shared, and included in volunteer program fees.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
There are few places in the world that are as perfect a combination of despair and hope as Zambia. One on hand, the country has been ravaged by HIV/AIDS, poverty and an inability to provide all of its people adequate food and clean water. On the other hand, it has not given way to the chaos, corruption and violence of many countries in the same position.
For a volunteer this is a golden opportunity – the rare chance to help a population that is already helping itself, and understands that it needs to preserve its culture, environment, and natural areas as well as transform itself into a modern economy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I volunteer in Zambia?
If you want to make a difference in Zambian lives, top volunteer destinations include Lusaka, Livingstone, and Kafue, whether you want to work for the children, community, healthcare, or wildlife.
How much does it cost to volunteer in Africa?
The average cost per week for volunteering in Africa is between $200 and $700, though this can vary depending on your preferred causes and program duration.
What do volunteers do in Africa?
Volunteering in Africa usually focuses on long-term initiatives that will help African communities such as healthcare, women and children, education, and conservation.
Is Zambia safe for travel?
Zambia is generally safe for travel, but as with any destination, research, keeping in touch with authorities, taking precautions, and being aware of potential risks such as petty theft, scams, and political public protests should be considered.
Latest Program Reviews
The best experience of my life!
September 19, 2026by: Helen Picton - WalesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My time volunteer teaching in Zambia was unbelievably fantastic. I met such lovely fellow volunteers, staff at my volunteer house, teachers and of course kids at my school. The program was really well organised from pre departure to arrival home with plenty of time for sight seeing. I felt so safe in Zambia and received a warm welcome. I felt relaxed at all times and really did not want to come back. I plan to do it all again next year and hopefully catch up with the children a year on in their studies. I'm missing everyone in Zambia!
Great trip!
September 18, 2026by: Heidi Robinson - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I Took my first trip alone with IVHQ as a 17 year old last month. It was an amazing first trip where I was supported the whole way and made many friends from all over the world. I loved the volunteering and I learnt so much about the culture. I am already planning my next trip!
Mambo
September 18, 2026by: Vladimir Lauria Pinter - ItalyProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
Volunteering in Zanzibar was an amazing and unforgettable experience. I had the opportunity to meet wonderful people from different countries, discover the local culture, and take part in meaningful activities that made every day special. The staff and coordinators were always welcoming, supportive, and friendly, which made me feel comfortable from the beginning. I also created strong friendships with the other volunteers and shared many great moments with them. This experience taught me a lot, both personally and culturally, and helped me grow as a person. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a unique, rewarding, and meaningful experience abroad.
My volunteering experience in Sri Lanka
September 07, 2026by: ANTONINO LA PAGLIA - ItalyProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My volunteering experience in Sri Lanka with International Volunteer was truly one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences of my life. From the very first moment I expressed interest in the program, the organization supported me step by step until my departure, making the entire process smooth, clear, and stress-free. The team was always available to answer my questions, provide guidance, and ensure that I felt fully prepared for my journey. Their professionalism, dedication, and genuine care gave me confidence and peace of mind throughout the whole preparation phase. The teaching project I participated in was absolutely wonderful. It was an incredible opportunity to work with enthusiastic students, immerse myself in the local culture, and make a meaningful contribution to the community. Every day was filled with learning, personal growth, and unforgettable moments. I am extremely grateful to International Volunteer for creating such a well-organized and impactful experience. I highly recommend this organization to anyone looking for a volunteer program abroad. Their support, commitment, and the quality of the projects they offer make them an outstanding choice for volunteers. Thank you, International Volunteer, for helping me live such an amazing adventure and for making a real difference in the lives of others while also changing my own life for the better.
Zanzibar IVHQ
September 03, 2026by: Matteo Vinicio Viccardi - ItalyProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I had an amazing experience with IVHQ during the Coastal and Marine Conservation programme in Zanzibar. From the application process to the end of my stay, everything was well organised and I always felt supported. The application process was simple and straightforward, and the IVHQ team provided all the information I needed before travelling. Communication was clear and any questions I had were answered quickly. The pre-departure information was especially useful because it helped me understand what to expect and prepare properly for the experience. Once I arrived in Zanzibar, the local team was welcoming, friendly and helpful. The orientation was well organised and gave me a good introduction to the local culture, the area and the programme. I always felt that there was someone I could rely on if I needed help. The Coastal and Marine Conservation project was definitely the highlight of my experience. I had the opportunity to take part in activities focused on marine conservation and learn more about the importance of protecting Zanzibar’s coastal ecosystems. It was very rewarding to see how our activities could contribute, even in a small way, to the local environment. The experience was not only educational but also practical, allowing me to get involved rather than simply learning about conservation from a theoretical perspective. The accommodation was comfortable and suitable for a volunteer programme. Living together with other international volunteers was also a great part of the experience. I met people from different countries and backgrounds, and many of them became good friends. Sharing everyday life, activities and free time with other volunteers made the experience even more memorable. The meals were another positive aspect. The food was generally tasty, fresh and varied, with a good opportunity to experience local flavours and dishes. The staff were also very attentive and accommodating. I also really appreciated the opportunity to experience Zanzibar beyond the project itself. The island has incredible beaches, landscapes and a unique culture, and having the opportunity to interact with local people made the experience much more meaningful. Overall, I would absolutely recommend IVHQ and the Coastal and Marine Conservation programme in Zanzibar. It is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to combine travelling, meeting people from all over the world and doing something meaningful for the environment. I came home with new knowledge, unforgettable memories and a much greater appreciation for marine conservation. Thank you to the entire IVHQ team and the local staff in Zanzibar for making this such a special experience. I would definitely consider doing another IVHQ programme in the future!



My best weeks
September 02, 2026by: Liel Naumov - IsraelProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I had the time of my life. At first i was a really scared kid, afraid to even speak and then one night i sat with Sarah, my Coordinator and she let me feel that talking with other people is not that scary even if u have a thick accent. And i’ll never forget that night because it gave me the push to talk with people. Everybody were heartwarming, always listening. The day care was amazing, i cried so hard when i had to leave the school and also when i needed to leave the house it self. Best weeks of my life.

Best Two Weeks Ever
September 02, 2026by: Holly Weathers - United StatesMy experience with IVHQ was overall amazing, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in volunteering abroad. The accommodation was lovely, the local team was incredibly kind and helpful, and I felt safe and supported throughout my stay. The volunteering itself was a really cool and meaningful experience, and I loved getting to experience a new country and culture. My favorite part was getting to play local games with the kids that are commonly played in Zambia but that I had never seen or played in my own country. It was such a fun way to connect with them and allowed me to get to know the kids on a deeper level. Being able to spend time with them, make them laugh, and hopefully help them feel loved and cared for was one of the most rewarding parts of the experience. I think two weeks was a great amount of time for the program I chose in Livingstone. After about two weeks, I felt like I had experienced most of what the area had to offer, so I think a longer stay could be difficult unless you enjoy a slower pace. I also wish the local team had given us a little more information about things to do during our downtime, such as local coffee shops, nail salons, affordable transportation options, and other things to do around town. I ended up figuring a lot of that out on my own, although I definitely could have asked more questions! Overall, I had a great experience and am very grateful I chose to volunteer with IVHQ. I left feeling like I had learned a lot, met some wonderful people, and had an experience I’ll remember for a long time.
Volunteering in Split
August 25, 2026by: Raphael Nacionales-Rowland - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
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.
AMAZING
August 13, 2026by: Daniel Abdulla - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
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.
An unforgettable experience in Split!
August 12, 2026by: Nicole Boduch - AustriaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
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. ❤️
Amazing Family Experience
August 10, 2026by: David Cannon - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
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.
Preparation before trip
July 30, 2026by: Yuange LiuProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
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.
More Than a Trip: A Life-Changing Experience in Jamaica
June 23, 2026by: Steph Cink - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My Jamaica experience was great because it allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, connect with new people, and make meaningful memories while serving others. I loved being able to learn about the culture, build relationships with the local community, and see the impact that small acts of kindness can have. The experience challenged me to grow in my faith, gratitude, and appreciation for the opportunities I have. It was rewarding to work alongside others who shared the same passion for helping people and creating a positive difference. IVHQ does a great job of creating opportunities for volunteers to make a meaningful impact while also providing support and guidance throughout the experience. They help connect volunteers with local communities, organize programs, and make it possible for people to serve in a way that is safe and structured. I appreciated how they allowed us to experience the culture of Jamaica while still focusing on helping the community. Their organization made the trip feel purposeful and helped create an environment where volunteers could learn, serve, and grow.

Volunteering in Thailand
June 23, 2026by: Jaz Eccleston - AustraliaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My experience with IVHQ absolutely exceeded my expectations and was so amazing, the staff were so friendly and really created a positive and welcoming environment, i felt safe and included by all the other volunteers, my only regret is not staying longer! I will definitely be back in the future!


Teaching, Cape Town South Africa
June 12, 2026by: Veronica Cura - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
Overall I had an amazing experience with Ivhq. I volunteered in Cape Town South Africa and I have never been so in love with a place. The culture and the people are truly amazing. I volunteered in a town ship with grade three and loved every minute of it! The kids are so kind and you can tell they truly love the help you have to offer. This experience will forever have such a big impact on me and changed me as a person. I would definitely recommend this to anyone:)

Food for the soul!
May 28, 2026by: Candice Simmons - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I have already done 3 programs with IVHQ, and this is just the beginning! Costa Rica to teach English, Fiji for childcare, and Thailand to teach. Each program has been magical! The experience is supported, from the application process through post program reflection, and everything in between. Safety, support, encouragement, insight, and perspective are all the things IVHQ provides and more! You get to meet people from around the world, and then come together for a common purpose. Already planning my next adventure, and I can't wait!

I had the best experience of my life!
May 26, 2026by: Abby Tootill - EnglandProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I havnt got any complaints from my trip through IVHQ. Every single part of the trip was perfect from the organisation to the welcoming coordinators. I’m only 17 but I felt so safe and supported through the whole process. Thank you for this opportunity!

Meaningful and rewarding experience
May 05, 2026by: Thinula Karunarathne - Sri LankaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My volunteer experience in Thailand was truly rewarding. The program was well-organized, and the staff were supportive throughout. What stood out most was the real impact—even small contributions made a difference in the local community. It also helped me grow personally by becoming more adaptable, independent, and open-minded. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone considering volunteering abroad.
More than Teaching:Kindness I would never forget
May 01, 2026by: Regina Fuentes - MexicoProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
Teaching in Ubud, Bali was one of the most beautiful and meaningful experiences of my life. I came expecting to help and give, but I ended up receiving so much more. The children were incredibly kind, respectful, and full of joy. What impacted me the most was how grateful they were for everything;even the smallest things. They would smile constantly, show affection in the purest ways, and even gift me candies as a way to say thank you. Those small gestures meant more than they probably realized. Every day felt special. Being able to connect with them, teach them, laugh with them, and see their excitement to learn was something I will never forget. The environment was welcoming, and the staff made everything smooth and supportive, allowing us to truly focus on making a difference. This experience changed my perspective in the best way possible. It reminded me how powerful kindness, gratitude, and human connection can be. I will always carry these memories with me, and I’m beyond grateful to have been part of something so real and meaningful.


Computer Science Engineer & Volunteer
April 29, 2026by: Mouhamed Ali Sboui - TunisiaProgram: GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad
I am motivated, responsible, and eager to learn from every experience. I am open to feedback and always ready to improve my skills. I value teamwork, communication, and adaptability, and I aim to contribute positively to any project or organization I join while continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
Latest Interviews

Francesca Norton-Hall
Simoonga Thandizani Trust School
I spent an extended time abroad previously in Sri Lanka and loved getting to know the people of the village I lived in, as well as experiencing some o...

Chris Kirkham
Simoonga Thandizani Trust School
I wanted to see the world and experience different cultures. I knew at some point my travels would lead me to a volunteer opportunity as I felt it was...

Lobke Meijer
Simoonga Thandizani Trust School
I wanted to see and learn more about the world. It’s very easy to get stuck in your own bubble at home, travelling makes you have to get out of your c...

Claudia Schrunner
Simoonga Thandizani Trust School
The possibility of supporting people who are in less fortunate situations was inspiring. Having grown up in Germany, I am very grateful for everything...

Jacob Saxton
Love Volunteers
I had traveled quite a bit but I wanted to go somewhere and truly immerse myself into a different country, see a new way of life that wasn't in a book...

Leonardo Francesco Rezzonico
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
I decided to apply for an international program because, at this point of my life, I thought it would have been the right decision. I was looking for ...

Marissa Sutera - 2013 Program Participant
Kaya Responsible Travel
Ever since I studied abroad I knew I wanted to go abroad again, but I wasn’t quite sure how to make that possible. I have always been drawn into the p...
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