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The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs For 2024

Looking for the best volunteer opportunities to join in 2024? As the world’s leading volunteering organization, International Volunteer HQ provides top-rated volunteer holidays , and makes it easy for you to find the best volunteer travel opportunities. With feedback from more than 10,000 volunteer travelers and insight from our experienced volunteer abroad support staff, we’re sharing 25 of our most recommended volunteer trips for 2024.

Here are the highest rated and best volunteer abroad programs for volunteers of all ages - all of these programs are available year-round and are currently accepting volunteers for 2024, 2025 and beyond.

What are the best places to volunteer abroad in 2024?

Our volunteer programs in Africa , Europe , the Caribbean , North America , Central America , South America and the Middle East are proving very popular for 2024! Explore the best volunteer abroad programs as rated by past IVHQ volunteers in the following regions:

• Best Africa volunteer abroad programs
• Best Central America volunteer abroad programs
• Best South America volunteer abroad programs
• Best North America and Caribbean volunteer abroad programs
• Best Europe volunteer abroad programs
• Best Middle East volunteer abroad programs
• Best Asia volunteer abroad programs

Wondering how we measure the effectiveness of our volunteer abroad programs? Check out the scoring guide that past volunteers use to rate IVHQ programs.

What are the best volunteer abroad programs based on your travel style?

Wondering how to volunteer abroad and where to start? Whether you’re a high school student, college student, older adult, or a family, discover the top volunteer abroad programs for your travel style below:

• Best volunteer abroad programs for high school students
• Best volunteer abroad programs for college students
• Top volunteer travel abroad programs for adults
• Best volunteer vacations for families
• Best medical volunteer abroad programs for 2024
• Top volunteer programs for one week
• Top trending 2024 destinations from the Lonely Planet

Best volunteer opportunities abroad for 2024

As more people opt to travel in a more sustainable and meaningful way, IVHQ’s volunteer abroad programs across Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe are booking up quickly for 2024. You won’t want to miss out on these humanitarian volunteer opportunities!

To help you choose the best 2024 volunteer programs to match your personal interests and the causes you care about - we’ve collated the top programs below based on how past volunteers have scored them.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in Africa for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in tanzania.

As a country bursting with natural splendor, beautiful beaches, ancient villages, and local tribes - Tanzania is one of the best places to experience an authentic volunteer holiday. It’s also home to the astounding Mount Kilimanjaro and some incredible wildlife, making it a paradise for hiking enthusiasts and animal lovers alike!

Many choose to combine our volunteer programs in Tanzania with an epic weekend getaway, including safaris, Maasai village tours, hiking trips, or overnighters to see waterfalls, hotsprings, caves, and coffee plantations. These types of tours and experiences in Tanzania can be easily added on to your volunteer program and booked directly through IVHQ.

Volunteer opportunities in Tanzania range from Animal Welfare and Childcare to Medical , Teaching and Women’s Education . These programs tackle some of the greatest challenges faced by local communities in Tanzania by improving access to education and healthcare, as well as providing safe spaces for vulnerable populations.

Looking for a conservation volunteer program in Eastern Africa? Check out IVHQ’s Zanzibar volunteer program below, which you can easily be added to the start or end of your Tanzania trip.

Volunteer Rating

Volunteer abroad in zanzibar.

Looking to unplug from everyday life and reconnect with nature? Located off the coast of Tanzania, the idyllic island of Zanzibar boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, unique wildlife, charming locals, and vibrant culture.

IVHQ’s Zanzibar volunteer program is perfect for animal and nature lovers who are drawn to the ocean and want to get a taste of Africa. As a volunteer traveler, you can live in a beachside bungalow and regenerate wild turtle populations on the Turtle Conservation volunteer project . Alternatively, you can stay in a rustic forest camp and protect endangered species, such as the Red Colobus Monkey, snakes, lizards, and tortoises on the Rainforest & Coastal Conservation project.

This is a truly unique opportunity to go off the beaten track and volunteer in Africa to help protect delicate ecosystems, preserve natural spaces, and help tackle climate change. Volunteering in Zanzibar can easily be combined with IVHQ’s Tanzania program and many volunteers opt to split their time volunteering in Africa between these two incredible (but incredibly different) volunteer programs.

Volunteer Abroad in Victoria Falls

Imagine volunteering abroad in a setting where your backyard has breathtaking views over a zebra-filled savannah - Victoria Falls is just that. Not only is this one of the best opportunities to volunteer in Africa with animals , Victoria Falls offers one of the most unique wildlife conservation volunteer programs . Volunteers are based on a private game reserve near the magical Victoria Falls - a once in a lifetime experience for volunteering abroad with animals.

While the volunteer work is physically demanding, you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with night camping in the reserve with the other volunteers. If you are in search of animal volunteering abroad and are passionate about conservation and wildlife, IVHQ’s Victoria Falls program is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Volunteer Abroad in Zambia

For those who want to explore the incredible area of Victoria Falls, but want to volunteer to help local people in the community, check out IVHQ’s much-loved Zambia volunteer program . Volunteer opportunities in Zambia include Construction & Renovation , Elderly Care , Childcare , Medical , Rural Teaching , and Teaching .

This is the perfect destination for adventure-seekers and adrenaline junkies - whether you want to swim on the ledge of a mighty waterfall, go on safari, or whitewater rafting, Zambia is the perfect spot to witness nature at its best while making a positive impact within the community. Check out some of the awesome free-time tours and experiences available in Zambia with IVHQ.

Volunteer Abroad in Kruger National Park, South Africa

Want to go into the wild and protect endangered species? Our Wildlife Conservation project in South Africa is based on one of Africa’s largest and most iconic game reserves - Kruger National Park.

Volunteers get to live amongst the ‘Big 5’ - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - and help preserve their spectacular home. A typical day on the Wildlife Conservation project includes game drives, vegetation sampling, camera trapping, habitat assessments, monitoring of rare and endangered species, and much more.

If you want to volunteer in South Africa on a community-focused project, we have plenty in and around Cape Town to choose from. Or, for the ultimate adventure, combine our Kruger volunteer project with volunteering in Cape Town with IVHQ !

Volunteer Abroad in Ghana

Volunteers on IVHQ’s Ghana program consistently rave about the immersive cultural experience and welcoming community vibes. The local people you’ll work with and the incredible support team will make you feel at home from the moment you land in Ghana. The local team here has a long history of providing dedicated support to ensure IVHQ volunteers achieve positive outcomes across the communities they work within.

As a volunteer in Ghana, you’ll develop a strong sense of connection to your host community and your contribution will be recognized with a great deal of gratitude from your local hosts. In your free time, you’ll be able to explore Ghana’s best kept secrets, thanks to the popular tips the local team has to offer. Explore our volunteer opportunities in Ghana below.

Volunteer Abroad in South Africa

If you’re a first time traveler , a solo traveler or have never been to Africa, volunteering abroad in South Africa is a popular choice. Set in Cape Town, IVHQ’s South Africa program is incredibly popular for those looking for a meaningful and social travel experience with easy access to surfing, hiking and even weekend safari tours. It’s also a sought-after destination for foodies so come prepared to sample the world-class cuisine and dining options!

The volunteer work itself in South Africa receives outstanding reviews from IVHQ volunteers, making it one of the best volunteer programs in Africa. With volunteer projects like Surf Outreach , Teaching English and Sports Development , there is a significant focus on youth development and increasing access to education in Cape Town.

Looking for a conservation project or want to go on safari in South Africa? IVHQ’s Wildlife Conservation project in South Africa is based in Kruger National Park and gives volunteers the unique opportunity to live amongst the ‘Big 5’ - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - while observing them on game drives and protecting their spectacular home.

Volunteer Abroad in Morocco

Morocco is a glowing cultural hub with a unique fusion of European, African and Middle Eastern influences that result in an upbeat lifestyle, perfect for travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience. IVHQ’s Morocco volunteer programs are based in the stunning regions of Rabat, Casablanca and Sale.

With volunteer projects ranging from the thrilling Amazigh Immersion in the Atlas Mountains to Sports Education , Women’s Education , and a range of Teaching projects - there’s a volunteer program to suit every skill set and interest.

Named one of the top countries to visit by Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel for 2024, Morocco is the hidden gem of Africa that everyone’s talking about this year.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in Central America for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in costa rica.

Known for its laid back culture and beautiful beaches, rainforests and volcanoes, Costa Rica is one of the best places to volunteer abroad and consistently a top pick for those looking to volunteer in Central America. IVHQ’s Costa Rica volunteer programs are located in a range of volunteer locations in Costa Rica, including the capital city of San Jose, and Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast.

Costa Rica is one of IVHQ’s most popular volunteer trip locations, with an incredible range of diverse and responsible projects that include Turtle Conservation , Eco-Agriculture Conservation , Childcare , Teaching English , Healthcare , and more.

Volunteer Abroad in Guatemala

Volunteering in Guatemala with IVHQ offers the ultimate volunteer holiday for those who like to go off the beaten track. With a rich fusion of Mayan and Spanish cultures, there are plenty of fascinating colonial towns, ancient Mayan ruins and quaint rural villages to explore. Guatemala’s incredible volcanoes, lush rainforest, beautiful lakes, and fascinating cultural cities make this country a hit with nature and city lovers alike.

IVHQ’s volunteer opportunities in Guatemala range from unique programs such as Mayan Cultural Immersion in the Highlands, Eco-Agriculture on a local coffee farm - to Medical , Childcare , and Teaching projects in the bustling city of Antigua.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in South America for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in peru.

For many volunteers, their experiences volunteering in Peru are some of the best of their lives. With an extensive range of projects to join, you can choose volunteer work such as Amazon Jungle Conservation or the Medical volunteer project .

You can choose take a volunteer trip to Peru’s capital - Lima (starting at just $275 for 1 week), or you could volunteer in Cusco - the gateway to Machu Picchu. During your weekends, you’ll have easy access from either location to iconic attractions such as Rainbow Mountain, Lake Titicaca and the Salt Mines. Make sure you check out the must-do trips in Peru for your IVHQ weekends before you depart.

Volunteer Abroad in Ecuador

As a volunteer in Ecuador with IVHQ , you can choose from a range of volunteer abroad projects, including Teaching English , Street Children Work , Childcare , Summer Project and NGO Support . Volunteer programs are based in Ecuador’s capital city of Quito and its hinterland. Nestled high in the Andes, Quito is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in South America, however there is still a great need for volunteers to assist with the development of the city.

On IVHQ’s Ecuador volunteer program, you will be greeted and guided by an incredibly dedicated local team who will ensure you feel safe and supported throughout your volunteer experience. See what other IVHQ volunteers say about their experience volunteer with these IVHQ Ecuador reviews .

Volunteer Abroad in Argentina

Argentina draws in tourists from around the globe for many reasons - its natural beauty, delicious cuisine, vibrant culture and so much more.

IVHQ’s Argentina volunteer programs are located in the cultural hub of Córdoba and coastal capital, Buenos Aires.Volunteer projects include Childcare , Construction & Renovation , Elderly Care , Healthcare , Special Needs Support , and much more.

Both of IVHQ’s Argentina programs are within a short flight of the iconic Northeast Argentina region, making it an ideal weekend escape for volunteers. This is a stunning, untouched part of the country, home to the famous Iguazú falls and the rugged beauty of the surrounding National Park.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in North America and the Caribbean for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in belize.

IVHQ’s Belize volunteer program is based on a stunning private island - just 45 minutes from mainland Belize in the Caribbean, with a focus on preserving endangered marine life. Volunteers receive comprehensive training so they can assist local marine biologists to gather data, conduct surveys, and remove invasive species.

The Marine Conservation project involves going on 13 scuba dives a week to collect data and carry out surveying, so if you don’t have your open water diving certification, you’re able to get PADI qualified on the program. You can expect to see lionfish, corals, whale sharks, turtles, queen conch and many more fascinating underwater species on your dives.

Volunteers monitor the reef, whale sharks and other marine life, eradicate invasive species, help set sustainable fishing limits, and take part in weekly beach clean-ups to preserve the fragile reef ecosystem, protect against global warming, and remove harmful plastics from the ocean.

Volunteer Abroad in Jamaica

IVHQ’s Jamaica volunteer program is the perfect opportunity for you to immerse yourself in the pulsing culture of the Caribbean while making a positive impact in the local community. Beautiful beaches, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and laid back vibes - just a few reasons why IVHQ volunteers fall in love with Jamaica.

Our program is located by the ocean in St Mary, where you’ll be welcomed into a tight-knit community eager to connect with volunteers like you. Make a lasting impact through impact-driven projects that are run by locals, including Sustainable Agriculture , Sports , Youth Development , Childcare , Business Development , Teaching , and more.

Volunteer Abroad in Puerto Rico

A stunning island in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico is bursting with character and culture. The country is a unique melting pot of influences from South America, Europe, North America ,and the wider Caribbean, resulting in a laid back, tropical and Latin feel.

Volunteer work in Puerto Rico is focused on assisting with widely felt social issues resulting from Hurricane Maria in 2017, with projects in Youth Support , Environmental Sustainability , NGO Support , and Community Development . Puerto Rico is home to many things you can’t find anywhere else - from the brightly-colored Old Town in San Juan to some of the world’s only unique bioluminescent lakes!

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in Europe for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in croatia.

A gem of the Mediterranean, Croatia is an amazing place to volunteer abroad and a glistening coastal country that has fast become a favorite for travelers to Europe - especially in the summer and fall. Our Croatia volunteer program is based in the popular city of Split, which is vibrant all year round, and has become iconic as the film set to a whole bunch of Game of Thrones scenes.

Volunteer projects include Marine Conservation , Youth Support , Animal Care , Special Needs Support and a unique Creative Technologies opportunity. There’s nothing like watching the sunset over the Mediterranean coast from an idyllic beach-side perch.

You’ll also find Croatia on Lonely Planet’s Best In Travel list for 2024 - just in case you needed another excuse to get there this year!

Volunteer Abroad in Portugal

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, one of the most vibrant cultural cities in Europe, and home to IVHQ’s Portugal volunteer program . You’ll love its charming cobbled streets, quirky cafes, stunning surf beaches, funky bars, and delicious Portugese delicacies. The city is bursting with beautiful architecture, rich cultural history, incredible street art, and museums.

As one of the sunniest places in Europe, Lisbon benefits from balmy temperatures year-round with a lovely Mediterranean climate.

From Environmental Scuba Diving to Supporting the Homeless and Youth Support projects - there’s a multitude of impactful volunteer opportunities to help out in this part of the world.

By popular request, IVHQ has also opened a range of new environmental conservation-focused projects in Portugal, including Forest Conservation , Biological Park Conservation , and Upcycling for Social Good . So whether you want to restore native forests, help protect native species, protect precious ecosystems, or reduce plastics entering landfill in a creative way, Portugal is the ideal volunteer destination to make a hands-on impact.

Volunteer Abroad in Romania

Is the appeal of Europe drawing you in? Our Romania volunteer program is the stand-out option, with its misty mountains, vast forests and fascinating history. The IVHQ Romania volunteer program consistently gets fantastic volunteer feedback, with the in-country program support often singled out for special praise.

The local team in Romaina welcomes every volunteer into the community, giving you a rare insight into authentic Romanian life and culture. There is plenty to keep volunteers busy in their downtime, with the rest of Europe on your doorstep. The program is based in the town of Miercurea Ciuc in the distinctive region of eastern Transylvania. IVHQ has a wide range of top rated volunteer abroad projects available in Romania, including Teaching English , Sustainable Agriculture , and Animal Care .

Volunteer Abroad in Spain

Take a volunteer adventure in Barcelona with IVHQ to discover the ins and outs of this cosmopolitan city. You’ll be placed at the heart of the city while volunteering on meaningful community-driven projects among the world-famous art and architecture.

Volunteer placements include Marine Conservation , Youth Support , Special Needs Support , and more. As an IVHQ volunteer in Spain, you’ll be immersed in this iconic city, working alongside locals and other international volunteers, and making valuable contributions to projects that value your support.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in the Middle East for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in jordan.

Jordan is a beautiful country in the heart of the Middle East that boasts diverse landscapes and people - and it’s safe to travel around! You can experience the peaceful and humble Bedouin way of life in the desert, the fascinating ancient kingdom of Petra and the progressive vibrant city of Amman - where our volunteer programs are based.

We’re incredibly proud that the coordinator of our Jordan volunteer program , Masar, was once an IVHQ volunteer herself! Back in 2013, Masar volunteered with IVHQ in South Africa, India, Colombia and Kenya, which had a profound impact and inspired her to establish a volunteer program in her home country of Jordan. This program has also previously been shortlisted as a finalist for the Innovative New Volunteer Abroad Program Award in the GoAbroad Awards.

Volunteer opportunities in Jordan include Arts and Music , Special Needs Support , Teaching , Women’s Education , Youth Support , and a unique Ramadan project.

What Are The Best Volunteer Abroad Programs in Asia for 2024?

Volunteer abroad in nepal.

Volunteer in Nepal in 2024 or 2025 and experience it all! This is a country full of color, culture, incredible landscapes and friendly people. One of the highlights of the Nepal program is just how varied the placement locations are with volunteer projects located in Kathmandu, Chitwan, Chitlang and Pokhara. IVHQ’s 2024 Nepal volunteer program is perfect for volunteers looking for a wide range of volunteer opportunities in truly unique locations throughout the country.

Nepal is well known to be a safe option for volunteers traveling solo and IVHQ volunteers make the most of the incredible sightseeing opportunities and tours in Nepal to explore in your free time.

Volunteer Abroad in Bali - Indonesia

If you’re looking for the one of the top volunteer programs in Asia, look no further than Bali. As a volunteer in Bali , you can choose from two locations: Ubud - the cultural hub of Bali, or Lovina - the laid-back coastal beach town. ( Find out where you should volunteer in Bali ).

For travelers who want to volunteer in Indonesia, this is the perfect volunteer program for surfers, nature lovers or anyone looking for a volunteer opportunity off the beaten path. The Bali program is one of IVHQ’s best volunteer abroad programs, with between 40-80 volunteers starting each month. There are six different projects available, with everything from Turtle Conservation to Childcare Support , so there’s plenty of variety to customizes your meaningful volunteer trip to Asia.

Volunteer Abroad in India - Kerala

India has captivated travelers for generations, and for good reason! It’s mixture of vibrant sights, sounds and colors, spirited people, dynamic cultures and vivid atmosphere all combined to create a truly remarkable country to visit. As a volunteer in India, you’ll build authentic connections with locals by supporting volunteer projects that meet the needs of the local communities. It’s a rare chance to be immersed within the Indian culture and to get an authentic sense of what the country is about.

IVHQ’s volunteer program in Kerala, India is based in the coastal city of Kochi, an eclectic town that’s one of our favorite hidden gems. Come ready to experience India in a new light - tropical, laid back and without the hustle and bustle of the big cities. With a perfect mixture of cool, contemporary cafes and authentic cultural galleries and shows, Kerala is one of Asia’s best kept secrets.

IVHQ also offers a popular range of volunteer projects in Delhi, the fast-paced and exciting capital of India. Whether you choose to volunteer in Kerala or Delhi with IVHQ, you’ll have access to a trusted support network and the help of a 24/7 local team which takes the hassle out of organizing your India volunteer experience.

Volunteer Abroad in Vietnam

Vietnam is known for its culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. As a volunteer in Vietnam , you’ll get to experience a mix of all that, as well as many local secrets and traditional traveler highlights. At the same time, you’ll help make a positive and lasting contribution to the Vietnamese community that you’re immersed in, making it the best way to experience Vietnam.

Volunteers are highly valued by the local community and the welcoming nature of the IVHQ Vietnam local team makes this volunteer program a firm favorites with Vietnam volunteer program participants. You can volunteer in Vietnam teaching English or if you’re on the path to a medical career, this is one of IVHQ’s best medical volunteer abroad programs .

How do we measure the effectiveness of our volunteer abroad programs?

In case you’re wondering how we select the best volunteer abroad programs for 2024, here’s some context to understand the criteria IVHQ volunteer programs are measured against…

Program Support

As the world leaders in volunteer travel, IVHQ has a specialist support team to help you find the right volunteer program to match your motivations, skills and the causes you care about. Once you’ve found the right volunteer program and registered to volunteer overseas with us, you’ll be connected with a dedicated Program Manager to support you on your journey. You’ll also gain access to the full suite of preparation tools within your MyIVHQ account. Here, you can access your detailed program guide, online volunteer training and customized preparation checklist to ensure you’re all set to volunteer overseas.

Our local teams are also on-hand to support you throughout your volunteer experience, from the moment you step off the airplane. This includes organizing your airport pick-up, program orientation and 24/7 support while you’re abroad. IVHQ works closely with these local teams day in, day out to ensure that your volunteer abroad experience is the best it can be.

Volunteer Work

IVHQ’s locally-led programs are designed to ensure you can make a positive contribution to important causes through your volunteer work abroad, while enjoying a culturally immersive experience. With our huge range of 300+ volunteer projects to choose from, there are plenty of options that give you the opportunity to pursue your passions, explore a career path or even share one of your hobbies with others. You’ll also need to consider how active you are, as some volunteer programs are more physically demanding than others. Our team of Volunteer Travel Specialists can help you choose the perfect program based on these factors.

Accommodation

After a day of volunteering, nothing beats coming home to a comfortable home away from home. When volunteering abroad with IVHQ, you’ll be living in the company of like-minded volunteers from around the world. The accommodation options vary from country to country but you can be confident that you’ll always have a safe and vetted place to call home. You could be living in a homestay with a few other volunteers, a volunteer house with dormitory-style rooms or you may wish to request a private room if that option is available.

Depending on the volunteer program you choose to join, you can be served up to three meals a day. Volunteer meals are typically made up of local cuisine so you’ll have the opportunity to sample traditional home cooked meals that can often accommodate special dietary requirements. Check out our choice of the best volunteer destinations for vegetarians and vegans here .

The best volunteer abroad programs are the ones that deliver the biggest impact through mutually beneficial exchanges between international volunteers and their host communities. When volunteering abroad with IVHQ, you can feel confident that you’ll be contributing to locally-driven volunteer projects that are supporting important social and environmental objectives. This is achieved by working in collaboration with local people who are in the best position to determine where volunteer support is most needed. It’s crucial that when you’re looking for legitimate volunteer abroad programs, you consider how your time abroad will impact the community and that volunteer work is driven by their needs.

Best volunteer abroad programs for high school students in 2024:

We’ve got 15 volunteer programs around the globe that high school students can take part in. Whether you’re traveling as an individual or with a group, read our comprehensive High School Volunteer Abroad Guide which details the destinations and projects available for high school volunteering abroad, as well as the dedicated support that’s provided for teen volunteering.

Best volunteer abroad programs for college students in 2024:

Volunteering abroad as a college student is the perfect opportunity to broaden your career prospects and immerse yourself in a foreign community during your break period. If you’d like to learn more about how volunteering abroad can benefit you and discover our best volunteer abroad programs for college students, check out our helpful guide - Volunteer Abroad For College Students .

Whether you’re setting out for your first adventure abroad or you’re well traveled, here are some amazing volunteer destinations that are popular with college students because of their program price, flexibility and community impact.

• Bali - Ubud
• Peru - Cusco
• South Africa

Top volunteer abroad programs for older adults in 2024:

When we leave our youth, it’s all too common to lose our spirit for adventure and feel as though opportunities aren’t suited for us. Luckily, volunteering abroad has no barriers for older adults. If you’re looking for a new life direction or if you’re highly skilled at what you do, volunteering allows you to connect with a local community and provide meaningful support in your chosen field.

The best thing about IVHQ is that you can travel in your own style. Room upgrades are available in most of our volunteer destinations, so you can choose to have your own privacy or be immersed with other volunteers on your program. Take a look at our Best Volunteer Programs For Grown Ups Guide for all you need to know, or check out some of these recommended options:

Best volunteer vacations for families in 2024:

The family vacation has taken a different form this year, with more and more families looking for meaningful multi-generational travel experiences over traditional resort-style vacations. Volunteering allows families to work together in ways not possible on your average vacation, while still gaining all the perks of visiting a new destination, experiencing local cuisine and seeing the attractions. If you’re looking for recommendations for family volunteer opportunities, check out our helpful Volunteer Vacations for Families Guide and take the family on a trip they won’t forget.

Best medical volunteer abroad programs in 2024:

Volunteering abroad has long been a popular option for college students working towards a career in medical fields. Put your theory work into practice as you provide meaningful medical volunteer assistance to underserved communities around the world. Medical volunteering abroad is the perfect way to make the most of your semester break, gain international healthcare experience and give back to communities that value your support. Check out our extensive range of medical volunteer opportunities in our Medical Mission Trips article .

Top volunteer programs for one week in 2024:

Strapped for time, but still want to volunteer in other countries and do meaningful volunteer work? IVHQ offers fantastic volunteer opportunities to suit a range of travel styles. Take a look at our Volunteer Trips Abroad You Can Take For 1 or 2 Weeks Guide , which details more than 10 destinations and the type of traveler they would suit.

If you’re looking for something else, here are a few other top programs based on FAQs from volunteers:

Where’s the best volunteer abroad program based on accommodation? Volunteer in Madagascar or volunteer in Belize and experience living on a private island alongside other international volunteers.

What’s the best volunteer abroad program for vegans? Definitely explore volunteering in Jamaica or support our volunteer projects in Ubud, Bali .

Where’s the best volunteer abroad trip if you want a personalized volunteer experience? If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten track experience where you’re working will a close-knit group of volunteers, explore volunteering in Jordan .

What’s the best place to volunteer and then fill my weekends with adventures? You can’t beat spending your weekend on safari in Tanzania .

If you want to volunteer in other countries and are still having a hard time deciding which volunteer abroad program is best for you, IVHQ has 300+ volunteer programs in more than 40 countries around the world. So grab out the map and start planning your volunteer trip around the globe.

Lonely Planet’s Top Trending Travel Destinations for 2024

Want to give back to a community that really values your support while exploring one of the Lonely Planet’s top trending travel destinations for 2024 ? Check out IVHQ’s volunteer programs in the places that’ll be buzzing in the year ahead, according to the Lonely Planet:

Connect with the colorful culture of India: With new flight routes from America and Europe to IVHQ’s volunteer programs in Delhi and Kerala, now’s the time to volunteer in India ! You could be supporting community projects while igniting all your senses in the captivating city of Delhi, or making an impact in the laid-back coastal region of Kerala.

Find your adventure in Mexico: Combine a volunteer trip to Mexico with an epic new train journey to see ancient Maya Ruins in 2024! This is your chance to give back to community projects in Merida, connect with the local culture, and immerse yourself in the history of the mysterious Mayan ruins emerging from an enchanting jungle.

Discover why Morocco is like no place on earth: For an authentic volunteer adventure like no other, volunteering in Morocco will not disappoint. From connecting with the local community, sharing mind-blowing meals with your host family, to spending a weekend journeying through Sahara desert, this experience will redefine what it means to see the world!

Find your calling in Croatia: Picture this: You could be volunteering in the coastal city of Split , while spending your weekends exploring Croatia’s idyllic islands by ferry. Need we say more?

Can’t Decide?

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This kind of others-first experience has the power to dramatically change the direction of your life. It's the type of kickstart we all need to stop living for ourselves and pursue life in the Kingdom of God.

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All Gap Year Programs | 2024-2025

What are you interested in.

• Adventure Travel
• Marine Conservation
• Outdoor Courses
• Volunteering

What should I do with my gap year?

If you are looking for inspiration on where to spend your gap year, you can rely on Gapforce to have something that will excite you. Gapforce has carefully selected gap year programs around the world since 1989, providing a variety of gap years abroad and gap year volunteer programs for experiences in wildlife conservation, outdoor training courses and once-in-a-lifetime adventures across the far corners of the world. 

Thrilling locations...

From the snowy heights of Everest Base Camp to the heat of the African plain, turquoise waters of Thailand and humid jungles of Costa Rica and India, there is a truly diverse range of thrilling locations. The hardest part will be choosing where to go. If you need help deciding, read our gap year advice resources which explore the possibilities that gap years can open to you.

Is there a gap year program that’s right for me?

The world is beautiful because it is varied, and our range of gap year options reflects this. The diversity of a gap year abroad means there really is something for everyone — follow your instincts:

For those looking for experience in marine conservation take a look at our gap year in Thailand .

If you want to combine travel with adventure on your gap year abroad — snorkel, sail, ride off-road and surf through your gap year in Australia .

Perhaps you are conscious that you want to spend time helping a worthy cause, in which case our summer volunteer programs will inspire you.

Our Range of Gap Year Programs...

Australia Adventure

Bali Escape

Dive Instructor Training - Costa Rica

Europe Tour

Fiji Marine Conservation

Game Ranger Course - South Africa

Marine Scientist Training - Costa Rica

Nepal & India Adventure

Scientific Diver - Costa Rica

South Africa Wildlife Volunteering

South America Explorer

Southeast Asia Explorer

Sri Lanka Escape

Sustainable Action Costa Rica

Thailand Escape

Thailand Marine Conservation

Trekforce Expedition Leader Training

UK Theater & History Tour

Wildlife Volunteering - Ecuador

Short Term Volunteer Abroad Programs & Mission Trips (1 Week & 2 Weeks)

By Brittany Edwardes

Updated for 2023-2024

If you want to make a meaningful impact while traveling abroad during a short school or career break, then check out the 11 volunteer programs below. You will be surprised to learn that even a few weeks of your time can be incredibly beneficial  to a community in need while giving you the opportunity to explore a new culture and destination.

Short-term Volunteering: How to Volunteer When You Have Endless Passion and Limited Time

Have you ever wanted to volunteer but worried that you didn’t have the time? Are you unable to take a lengthy career break but desperately want to dedicate your time and hard work to producing positive change in a community in another country?

You may not think that  volunteering abroad  is an option with your busy schedule and possibly limited funds, but we believe that great volunteer abroad opportunities exist for everyone who has the hands and the heart to work.

Everyone knows that volunteering abroad can be life-changing, but what many people don’t realize is that you can have substantive, beneficial volunteer abroad service trips that are as short as one week. In fact, International Volunteer HQ , which has been trusted by over 130,000 volunteers, offers numerous one-week volunteer trips as part of the 300+ projects it offers; they have even put together this handy guide for volunteers to maximize their impact during short term volunteer trips . In addition, GoEco is another great choice if you are short on-time: many of their projects can be as short as one week, like this program in Belize , and are designed for you to maximize your impact in a short period of time.  Also, Volunteering Solutions has many amazing opportunities where you can travel from one to two weeks (or longer) in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond on impactful programs. Take a look their curated programs for the best summer volunteer programs , for medical internships abroad , or wildlife conservation projects for outdoor adventures!

There are projects of all kinds that allow passionate volunteers to donate their time as they are available. In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the benefits of short-term volunteer abroad opportunities, introduce you to some of the opportunities that our volunteers love the most, and even let you hear from volunteers just like you– who didn’t think they had the time of funds to volunteer but found the perfect program that helped them create the change that they wanted to see– all within a few weeks.

You’ll also learn about the top programs that offer short-term volunteer opportunities, including Maximo Nive l, which offers lots of one- to two-week volunteer abroad programs throughout Latin America , from  teaching , to sea turtle conservation , to medical care , and beyond. Maximo Nivel is particularly well-suited to short-term volunteers from the United States due to the close proximity to Latin America. If you are interested in volunteering in Africa, then we recommend checking out the award-winning volunteer organization, African Impact , which offers two-week projects in the areas of wildlife conservation , public health, and more! Lastly, if you’re passionate about climate action programs and promoting sustainable fashion, then check out this 1-week Fast Fashion Awareness project in Cambodia !

How to Find the Perfect Short-term Volunteer Abroad Opportunity

There are many pros to short-term volunteer abroad trips. Because of their length, shorter volunteer abroad trips are typically much less expensive than their  long-term volunteer abroad  counterparts, not just because of the shortened time frame but because of the less-independent nature of many of the volunteer abroad opportunities.

As an example, Volunteering Solutions , which is very popular with single, female travelers, offers one-week trips  starting at just $260 .

Also, because many projects are especially designed to meet the needs of volunteers with limited time and funds, the projects are much more likely to be able to connect you to reasonable and convenient housing options or even provide housing on-site for volunteers.

Short-term volunteer projects are also good in that they may be a more appropriate option for groups or corporate volunteer teams as short-term volunteer projects do not require volunteers to take lengthy breaks from work.

One- to three-week volunteer opportunities  are also great for travelers passing through an area who are interested in volunteering for a shorter time period so that they can either continue with their travels or experience the region in other ways. Finally, short-term volunteer opportunities are perfect for professionals, students, or anyone else who wants to put their time and energy into a volunteer project despite their busy schedule.

The world is flush with short-term volunteer abroad opportunities, catering to every kind of specialty, geographic location, or even the type of volunteer interested. The perfect program is out there waiting for you– but finding it can sometimes be the most stressful part of your experience.

To make things easier for you, we’ve made a short list of must-have attributes of short-term volunteer abroad experiences and have even put together a list of different organizations who will meet your needs and have been vetted by volunteers just like you. These volunteer organizations aren’t just highly ranked by real volunteers just like you, but also dedicated to helping short-term volunteers make an impact that lasts.

Read on to learn more about these fantastic 1 week, 2 week, 3 week, and 4 week volunteer abroad opportunities.

Short-term Volunteer Abroad Opportunities Worth Checking Out:

International volunteer hq (ivhq).

About the program: International Volunteer HQ works hard to provide over 300+ safe, affordable volunteer projects in Asia, the Pacific, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and Latin America. IVHQ partners with local NGOs and organizations so that high-quality, skilled volunteers are able to join a variety of different kinds of local projects. Depending on your preference, you can volunteer from 1-24 weeks in over 4 0 destinations around the world.

IVHQ is especially well-known for its intensive online training that helps prepare volunteers for life in their home country, their specific roles as a volunteer, and the intricacies of the project that the volunteers will be working with. All volunteers are encouraged to complete this training prior to leaving their home country to align their expectations with the realities of being an international volunteer. Returned volunteers almost always mention just how spot-on and helpful they found the pre-trip training, so it is definitely something worth fully investing yourself in.

Volunteer in Madagascar

Prospective volunteers might especially be interested in IVHQ’s forest conservation program in Nosy Komba, Madagascar . Although Madagascar has long been known for its incredibly diverse and unique ecosystems, much of Madagascar’s wildlife is threatened by pollution and habitat loss. To aid researchers and activists in preserving wildlife, volunteers who are passionate about the environment travel to the dense rainforest of Nosy Komba and monitor native wildlife. Volunteers have the opportunity to work with lemurs, conduct field surveys, and collate data, and assist researchers in analyzing findings.

Volunteer in Greece

Help the homeless population in Athens, Greece. As a volunteer, you will assist local NGOs to provide basic necessities, such as food, clothing, water, and legal documentation to this vulnerable population. Specifically, you will help with food preparation, outreach projects, and help prepare legal documents. In return, you will gain experience in community outreach, learning about NGOs, and at the same time, enjoying Greek culture and history. Programs start as short as one week. Check out more details about this program here . 

Volunteer in India – Kerala

Even a little time spent on the right project can have a big impact, when you volunteer abroad with IVHQ to help empower young women. The Women’s Education program in Kerala , India allows you to share your experience in education, health and financial budgeting to help girls and young mothers improve their English speaking skills and their employability. Share practical knowledge, such as sewing and crafting, and help the women start their own small jewelry-making, or tailoring businesses. You’ll stay in a volunteer house in Kochi, run by local coordinators. If your short stay in Kerala lasts through the weekend, spend it exploring the beautiful beaches and verdant tea plantations of this beautiful region of India.

Volunteer in Vietnam

Are you up for a heart-touching challenge? Hard-working and caring volunteers are needed for IVHQ’s Special Needs Care project in Hoi Chi Minh, Vietnam, helping children and young people affected by Agent Orange. You’ll work in schools, hospitals, community clinics, or orphanages, looking after mentally disabled children and supporting the day-to-day operations of these centers. Tasks can include rehabilitation exercises, therapeutic treatments, playing with children, entertaining and educating them through games, music and art, painting murals, renovation work, and developing fundraising initiatives. You’ll work alongside local placement staff, so no experience is necessary to sign up. Accommodation is in a volunteer dormitory at a Tourism College nearby. Program fees start at $300 for one week.

Since 2006, GoEco has offered affordable volunteer abroad programs and internships in over 40 countries throughout Africa ,  Asia ,  Australasia ,  Central America ,  Europe , the  Middle East , and  South America . With more than 150 different long-term and short-term programs , GoEco is a great organization to check out if you’re looking for a variety of impactful trips to choose from, from  wildlife conservation  to  teaching English . GoEco was recently recognized as the  Top Volunteer Abroad Organization from GoAbroad, Top Eco-Enthusiast by Greenmatch, and has been recommended by Buzzfeed, Huffington Post, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification and more. As a volunteer, you will have 24-hour support from the GoEco team, from start to finish.  Currently, GoEco is offering a special travel grant where you can stay for the 3rd week free! Check out the qualifying programs here !

Wildlife Conservation and Cultural Immersion in Japan

Spend a week volunteering in one of Japan’s beautiful quaint islands, Sago Island! You will arrive first in Tokyo for 3 nights and then travel to the island. Your help is needed in protecting the endangered native bird on the island, called Crested Ibis. You will also lend your hands in promoting sustainable farming, preserving rice fields and temples, restoring traditional houses, assisting in bamboo workshops, etc. while immersing yourself in this unique culture. You will get to stay in a traditional Japanese temple on the island. There are many activities to do on this island that you would want to extend your stay! This rural, coastal island experience is very different from the typical city tourist experience. For more information, click here . 

Animal Rescue and Release Sanctuary in Peru

Have you always wanted to experience the Amazon jungle? Then look into this program in Peru that needs volunteers to help in wildlife rescue so these animals can return to their natural habitat. These orphaned and injured animals are usually results of habitat loss, hunting, and illegal trade. You will help care for these animals such as in feeding, cleaning and repairing their enclosures, and helping the vet in various tasks. This program starts from $730 for 6 days.  

Women’s English Literacy Program in Sri Lanka 

Empower Sri Lankan women through this English literacy program to give them better chances of employment and confidence. You will lead English lessons, as well as help them practice English speaking skills in creative ways. Each day, you will spend 2 hours teaching and then some time on planning lessons. Located in Galle, you can enjoy this coastal beach town or do nightly yoga sessions in your free time. This program starts from a minimum of 1 week. 

Liveaboard Dolphin Research Expedition  

For those with a special interest in dolphins, join a unique experience living aboard a historic boat to collect dolphin data along the Italian coast! Your minimum commitment is one week. You will work closely with the crew in this research project and get to learn dolphin behavior while helping to record, film, and photograph them. There will be many chances to get glimpses of ocean life such as whales, manta rays, school of fishes, etc while out in the sea, which is daily weather permitting. For the costs and other details, click here !

Volunteering Solutions

About the Program: Volunteering Solutions , or VolSol, as it has been nicknamed by its 17,000 volunteers and volunteer alums, has been in the business of connecting passionate volunteers with great international projects since 2006. VolSol was founded by volunteers who wanted to help international volunteers connect to highly specialized, community-based local projects.

VolSol has a full staff of experienced coordinators who assist volunteers before, during, and after placement, providing resources such as international insurance, a connection to a network of passionate global citizens over 10,000 strong and resources on how to volunteer ethically and mindfully. VolSol is one of the most affordable programs in the world with one week projects starting at just $200 USD (UK readers can check out their program fees here ).

Where to Go:  Volunteering Solutions has  programs all over the world  on six continents. Volunteers can’t go wrong with projects like  Volunteering for Child Care in Cusco, Perú , where volunteers have the opportunity to work with local at-risk children to teach them to become global citizens or  Volunteering in Koh Samui, Thailand  where volunteers are lucky enough to work in local schools in one of the most beautiful islands in Thailand– and that’s saying something! Volunteers can search through programs by visiting VolSol’s project page on Volunteering Forever, where all projects are described and rated by volunteers like you.

Teach English to Monks in Thailand

If you have two weeks to volunteer, why not check out Volunteering Solutions’ amazing opportunity to  teach English to novice Buddhist monks in Chiang Mai ? As a volunteer, you’ll work at one of five different monastery schools to teach English to students aged 12 to 18.

A few activities you can take on include working alongside local teachers to conduct lessons, teaching conversational English to students, helping out with other subjects such as computer literacy, and sharing new ideas and views with your students through conversation and activities. You’re also encouraged to take weekend trips throughout Chiang Mai and visit ancient temples, heritage sites, marketplaces, and much more.

Short-Term Volunteering in Peru

Another adventurous, two-week volunteer opportunity you can sign up for right now through Volunteering Solutions invites you to Peru to  volunteer and travel to some of South America’s most spectacular sites . You’ll start with an orientation and intercultural project for your first week in Cusco, where you’ll volunteer in a rural nursery school to provide love, care, and attention to children from impoverished families.

After that, you’ll have some time to explore Cusco by yourself before embarking on a guided Sacred Valley tour, and then an amazing tour of Machu Picchu. This is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture while exploring the Inca Trail and bringing a smile to the face of some of the country’s neediest children.

Sports Coaching in South Africa

If you’ve always wanted to visit Africa, Volunteering Solutions is offering a chance for you to  coach sports at a local primary school in Cape Town . Physical education has only recently been introduced into the school curriculum in Cape Town, so many schools are still building up their resources to accommodate these programs. As a volunteer, you’ll be a mentor to these children, assist teachers with lessons when you’re not coaching, and you’ll teach children how to stay physically fit and motivated to keep a healthy lifestyle. In addition to your volunteer work, you’ll be able to travel throughout Cape Town and visit areas such as Table Mountain, Robben Island, Lion’s Head, and more to gain the most from your adventure in South Africa.

What Volunteers Have to Say:

I volunteered twice with Volunteering Solutions – once for 3 weeks in Arusha, Tanzania and once for 2 weeks in Cusco, Peru. I had a great time with both programs, though they were quite different. I worked in a hospital in Tanzania and mostly shadowed a nurse in the surgical unit for a majority of the time. We mostly worked with babies that had burns to help clean them and keep their wounds dressed. It was quite sad but really interesting work. I stayed in a volunteer house which I loved since the community of volunteers was really great and we all got to be great friends. In Peru, I stayed in a homestay, which was a very different experience than the volunteer house. It is great for immersion into the culture – you get to live amongst the people, eat their food, and live like they live. However, I found it a bit isolating since I was the only volunteer in Peru at the time. I think it would have been better if I was a little better at Spanish – as I think the language barrier contributed to the isolation. I didn’t have any problems not knowing Swahili in Tanzania. I worked in a daycare in Peru, and the kids were REALLY cute and super fun to play with. Other volunteers would teach English in the same daycare if there were older kids there – but there happened to be younger kids (3-4yo) when I was there. Overall, I would highly recommend Volunteering Solutions as a company to volunteer through. Though the programs vary greatly – there’s definitely something for everyone! — Kirsten Nedd, January 2016

Maximo Nivel

If you’re looking for a one- to two-week volunteer abroad opportunity,  Maximo Nivel  may be the right fit. Based in Latin America, this organization has provided accredited language courses, internships, volunteer abroad programs, and more since 2003 to 25,000 travelers from all over the world.

Maximo Nivel’s short-term volunteer abroad programs are extremely affordable, starting from just $595 for one week. Each project includes airport pickup, 24/7 emergency support, orientation, certificates, wifi, salsa dance classes, Spanish books and materials, and lots more.

Volunteer in Construction

As a  construction volunteer , you’ll help build and improve schools, homes, and shelters. You’ll be placed alongside a local team in a rural village, with your project led by professional foremen, architects, and engineers.

As a volunteer, you’ll take on work such as digging, removing dirt, carrying bricks, mixing cement, painting, cleaning, and more. Construction programs are available in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru, and you can expect to work 3 to 4 hours per day, Monday through Friday, on morning and afternoon shifts. To learn more about this program, visit:  http://maximonivel.com/volunteers/construction/

Volunteer in Animal Care

Perfect for animal lovers, Maximo Nivel’s animal care program invites you to Guatemala or Peru to work in a dog rescue shelter, an amphibian/reptile rescue center, or a small zoo. Your work will vary depending on your placement, though it can include caring for the animals, helping with obedience training for the dogs, feeding animals at the zoo, cleaning cages, hosting zoo visitors, and providing general assistance and maintenance at the reptile and amphibian center. This program starts from one week, and you’ll work Monday through Friday, for 3 to 4 hours per day. To learn more about Maximo Nivel’s animal care volunteer opportunities, visit:  http://maximonivel.com/volunteers/animal-care/

Volunteer Adventure

If you have two weeks to travel, check out Maximo Nivel’s  volunteer adventure , which invites you to take on five days of community service and six days of travel through Peru, Costa Rica, or Guatemala. Volunteer activities you can take on include working with children, teaching English, helping with construction, assisting with environmental conservation efforts, supporting animal care, and providing medical or healthcare services.

The adventure portion of your trip depends on where you travel: in Costa Rica, you’ll go on a city tour, visit to Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall, a catamaran Tortuga Island tour, and a trip to Manuel Antonio National Park. In Guatemala, you’ll hike to Volcano Pacaya, take surf lessons, take a zip line adventure, and spend the night in Tikal. And in Peru, you’ll go on a tour of Cusco city and the Sacred Valley, a two-day tour of Machu Picchu, and a two-day tour of Lake Titicaca and Puno. Learn more about Maximo Nivel’s volunteer adventure trips at:  http://maximonivel.com/adventure/full

Volunteer with Kids

Through this placement, you’ll be able to  make a positive impact on children’s lives in Latin America . As a volunteer, you’ll provide care and support to children at a daycare center or school who are homeless, impoverished, abused, or whose families suffer from lack of education and resources.

You’ll work alongside local staff to support some of the neediest children in Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Peru, through educational programs, emotional support, hygiene, and so much more. Your assistance will keep vulnerable children off of the street and able to build a bright future for themselves. You’re asked to stay at least one week, though if you have two weeks to travel, you’ll gain more from your amazing experience abroad. Learn more about volunteering with children at:  http://maximonivel.com/volunteers/working-with-kids

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

Take a look at some programs off by IVI. Involvement Volunteers International (IVI) , established in 1989, is a non-profit volunteer abroad organization that beckons individuals to be part of 25,000 volunteers who’ve positively impacted 112 projects in 23 countries. They offer programs that can last from 1 week duration to 3 months. We encourage a longer volunteer duration whenever possible because your experience will be more impactful. But when time is not enough, here are some examples of short term volunteer opportunities.

Stray Dog and Cat Rehabilitation Guatemala

Stray animals have been a problem in Antigua and these grassroots organizations have taken charge in helping with the issue. Volunteers will help out local animal shelters to take care of stray dogs and cats from the streets of Antigua. No experiences are required, just a love and care for animals! Volunteer tasks include daily grooming, feeding, walking, and general care for the animals. Other work may include animal obedience training, helping out medical procedures as appropriate, and community teaching on stray animals. Located in the city of Antigua, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, you will have the chance to roam through beautiful Spanish colonial architecture surrounded by volcanoes. The project cost for 1 week is $435USD and includes meals and accommodation with a host family. For more information, click here !

Beach Clean-up and Nature Reserve

If you are an outdoorsy person, consider a volunteer trip to southern Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica for a 2 weeks project, and experience pura vida (“simple life” or Costa Ricans’ way of life)! This project is focused on environmental conservation that includes beach clean ups, trail maintenance of the nature reserve, and assisting in research and education. You will get the chance to see a variety of native wildlife in the nature reserve and know that your work is towards protecting them. The tasks can vary based on your experience and season. Meals and accommodation are included in the program fees, which is $935USD for 2 weeks. But note that accommodation at the reserve is basic but comfortable. During your free time, there are many famous tourist sites nearby such as Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, and Monteverde Cloud Forest. Click here for more details!

Community Construction Peru

Construction volunteer projects have the highest impact on the local community. Volunteers are directly involved in helping to improve someone’s housing or provide safe schools, churches, or centers for community members. Even a week of volunteering will be beneficial to the community. For this specific project in Cusco, Peru, you work with other volunteers supervised by a foreman to help build or renovate community buildings and houses. You will be taught many construction skills and safety procedures. While this can be physical hard work, you will be able to see tangible results. Located in Cusco, you will have the opportunity to enjoy this scenic city and ancient city with other team members during your free time. For prices, and details, click here .

Projects Abroad

About the program:   Projects Abroad has the mission to provide the gold standard of staff support and safety, so its volunteers and interns can fulfill their potential, discover themselves, and create positive change in the world. Founded in 1992, Projects Abroad has sent more than 120,00 volunteers abroad.

With the help of passionate volunteers and interns and the support of dedicated in-country staff, Projects Abroad focuses on implementing long-term, sustainable solutions, not on quick fixes. Each project solves a specific problem in a specific place. This might be to save sea turtles from being wiped out in Mexico, or to fight gender inequality in Ghana.

The projects run year-round, no matter how many volunteers it has, so you can choose your own start and end dates. Projects Abroad also offers several projects where you can participate for one to two weeks. Even if you’re only there for a short time, you’ll become part of ongoing efforts to make a difference.

Projects Abroad programs are some of the most highly reviewed on Volunteer Forever. Volunteers praise the deep connections they’ve built with local communities and their level of expertise in each of the fields they serve.

Where to go:  Projects Abroad runs sustainable, long-term projects in developing countries, from  Africa  to  Asia . Here are some of the most popular project options available worldwide:

• Support early childhood development and work with kids at a  Childcare Project .
• Protect endangered ecosystems and animal species, like the Amazon Rainforest in  Peru  or sea turtles in  Mexico , on a  Conservation Project .
• Help run medical outreaches in areas where healthcare services are severely limited through  Public Health Projects .
• Build important infrastructure like toilets, houses, and classrooms in struggling communities on a  Building Project .

African Impact

African Impact is an award-winning, responsible travel organization that offers volunteer and internship opportunities in 7 countries across Africa. It was founded in 2004 and has since hosted over 35,000 volunteers. African Impact has over 20 different projects, ranging from teaching in Zambia to marine conservation in Zanzibar. The organization is known for its long-term objectives and measurable change. It is also recognized as a trusted specialist on volunteering and interning in Southern Africa. African Impact offers internships, as well as group, family, and high school projects. The minimum age requirement for their projects is 16, making African Impact a great option for teen and high school volunteers.

Big Five and Wildlife Conservation, South Africa

For two weeks or longer, you’ll have the chance to monitor and study the African Big 5 (leopard, rhino, lion, buffalo, and elephant) and help local researchers and foundations with protecting endangered species. Based in the game reserves of the Greater Kruger Area, your volunteer tasks can include researching animal behavior and movements, helping with reserve conservation work such as clearing brush and maintaining waterholes, compiling data at the research lab, and much more to help understand animal behavior and maintain a healthy ecosystem. Learn more here!

Sports Coaching and Development, South Africa

Located in  Cape Town, South Africa , this program is a great way to get active, coach sports, and provide support for physical education programs in schools. As a volunteer, you’ll assist coaches with PE sessions around Cape Town, help design fitness tests and games at schools, teach sports at after-care programs, and much more – plus, you can combine this volunteer program with other activities where you can work with orphaned and vulnerable children, teach and help with youth development, help with a healthcare program, or join a gender empowerment project.  Learn more and register here!

Education and Community Support, Tanzania

Based near  Mount Kilimanjaro , this 10-day volunteer trip gives you the chance to help build stronger communities through education and support. A few tasks you can take on include facilitating activities for children with disabilities, leading income-generation sessions for a women’s group, teaching members of the Maasai tribe to read and write, and teaching English in a local community program.  Learn more and sign up here!

Global Vision International

About the program : As one of the most popular and consistently well-rated programs among our volunteers, the  award-winning   Global Vision International  is well-known for coordinating well-planned, productive volunteer opportunities for volunteers of all ages.

Global Vision International seeks to mix cultural awareness and critical project work through providing programs that are research-based, community-supported, and fully responsive to the needs of the area or community.

Due to Global Vision International’s widespread network of relationships with local NGOs across the world, volunteers are able to find programs in the areas of marine conservation, women’s empowerment, teaching English, and healthcare. Global Vision International also supports volunteer abroad opportunities for  volunteers under 18  through specialized trips and group opportunities.

Where to Go:  Global Vision International coordinates all kinds of volunteer abroad projects from  volunteering with coral reef conservation in Seychelles  to working with women’s empowerment in India. Volunteers who are interested in a particularly unique volunteer abroad trip may be interested in  volunteering with with Buddhist novice monks in Laos .

Volunteer with Buddhist Novice Monks in Laos

On this program, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and city of  Luang Prabang  to teach practical and conversational English to Buddhist novice monks and to other local lay students. Monday through Friday each week, you will plan and carry out English lessons, which will greatly help your students find better employment opportunities in the future and build a better socio-economic status within their community. This program starts from two weeks at $1,900 –  learn more and sign up here .

Volunteer with Elephants in Thailand

Another short-term volunteer program you can sign up for with GVI invites you to  Chiang Mai, Thailand , where you will work with mahouts to care for elephants rescued from the tourist industry. During your stay, you will have the chance to conduct health inspections on the elephants, go on forest walks with the elephants, and observe the animals to collect data on social interactions and food preferences. You also can teach English and help with other local initiatives within the community. This program starts from one week at $1,840 –  click here to learn more and to register!

Community Development Expedition in Fiji

For a tropical island adventure, check out GVI’s  community development expedition to Fiji , where you will help with a variety of local projects to help build a sustainable community. The five core focuses of this expedition include WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene), health and nutrition, income generation, education enrichment and empowerment, and environmental management and protection. This is a wonderful way to get a glimpse of how sustainable community development programs operate – you’re invited to stay two weeks or longer on this  volunteer program in Fiji , which starts from $2,290.

Wildlife Research in South Africa Expedition

On this volunteer trip, you’ll have the chance to work alongside a local wildlife research team to  track animals , study their behavior, and learn more about the diverse wildlife of South Africa. You’ll get started with a training session to get you acquainted with the program and the types of animals you’ll study, and from there you will volunteer each day tracking wildlife, conducting research, assisting with data entry, and even participating in community education about conservation. This program starts from two weeks at $2,390 –  learn more and sign up here.

I was in need of a career break, and was looking to do something out of the ordinary. I was looking to get far away and do something worthwhile. After some heavy research GVI continued to be the organization that ticked all the boxes. They were incredibly helpful when I was choosing my location, and the onsite assistance and support throughout the entire journey was fantastic. I was so lucky to be involved in the Community development program of El Cocal, the children were amazing, I made some friends for life and hopefully one day soon I’ll return for a visit! It really was an unforgettable experience! ” – Amelia Rogers, May 2015

Cerca Abroad

Looking for an exciting and personalized short-term internship experience abroad? Consider Cerca Abroad, a leading international internship provider. Founded in 2016, Cerca Abroad currently offers more than 20 internships in fields such as engineering, medical, dental, art and more. 

What sets Cerca Abroad apart from other short-term volunteer and internship organizations is its personalized approach. Programs run all year round, and you can select dates that work for you. Fees start at just $1,900 for a two-week program. For instance, through Cerca Abroad, you could join the following internships:

• Marine Conservation Internship in Greece : This hands-on internship is through the Archipelagos Institute of Marine Conservation.
• Physical Therapy Internship in Greece : Shadow physical therapists and doctors in Athens at state-of-the-art hospitals and clinics. 

Even better, Cerca Abroad offers a program upgrade in cooperation with Webster University (Athens Campus), allowing you to gain transferable US university credits for all in-person and remote internship programs.

If you’re looking for a 1- or 2-week volunteer abroad or intern abroad program, Cerca Abroad is a great option. You can boost your resume while helping others. Check out two programs below:

Social Work Internship in Greece

You can apply for a short-term two-week social work internship in Athens with Cerca Abroad. During the program, you’ll work side-by-side with professionals, assisting with everything from home visits and data recording to writing articles and creating webinars. Your work will directly help those in need, as well as raise awareness around issues such as poverty, migration, domestic violence, and other social challenges. 

Want to learn more about this internship? Click here . 

Dental Internship in Greece

Gain valuable experience in dentistry and explore Greece with Cerca Abroad’s Dental Internship. During the program, you’ll shadow dentists for up to 40 hours per week in state-of-the-art clinics. Designed for pre-dental and graduate students, this program will help you fortify your medical school application while helping those who need affordable dental care. Program duration can be as short as two weeks. 

Love Volunteers

With more than 20,000 volunteers placed on meaningful programs overseas since 2009 (and 4,000 just in the past year),  Love Volunteers  is one of the fastest growing volunteer organizations that you can be a part of right now. All of their volunteer trips and internships are affordably-priced, starting from only $199 for your first week abroad, depending on where you travel. Right now, Love Volunteers works in 34 countries worldwide, with more than 120 different projects. Some of their popular destinations include:

• Asia:  Nepal ,  Thailand ,  Bali
• Latin America:  Peru ,  Costa Rica ,  Ecuador
• Africa:  South Africa ,  Kenya ,  Zambia ,  Tanzania

Love Volunteers is dedicated to traveler safety as well as sustainability of their programs, and maintains strong relationships with registered NGOs in each of their host countries.

Great Barrier Turtle Conservation

Based in Cairns, Australia, this volunteer program brings you to the  Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre , which provides care and rehabilitation for turtles suffering from disease as well as injuries caused by boats and polluted waters. A few tasks that you can help with as a volunteer include preparing food and feeding the turtles, cleaning and maintaining their tanks and enclosures, scrubbing algae off of the turtles’ backs, transporting and releasing the turtles, assisting with monitoring and research in the reef, and much more. This program starts from one week at $959 –  learn more and sign up here!

Elephant Village Program in Thailand

Based in  Surin, the elephant capital of Thailand , this volunteer trip gives you the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to care for elephants that have been abused and neglected. These elephants were first used as beasts of burden for logging work, which was outlawed in the 1980s, and later they were used as tourist attractions in cities for their owners to pay for their care. Through Love Volunteers, you can work with an initiative that takes the elephants out of the cities and cares for them in their natural habitats, while also providing livelihood support for their mahouts. This program starts from one week at $619 –  click here to learn more!

Community Development in Tanzania

Another excellent program to check out with Love Volunteers brings you to  Arusha, Tanzania  to assist with a variety of community development initiatives. A few projects that you can get involved with include working on grant applications and fundraisers, educating communities about health issues, helping out with school infrastructure projects, and assisting staff with administration and program development. You also can help with tree planting, sustainable gardening, recycling, and other sustainable projects locally. This program starts from one week at $199 –  learn more and apply here!

Medical Internship in Ecuador

On this internship, you will travel to  Quito, Ecuador , where you will assist in a hospital, clinic, or care facility. To start, you’ll shadow a local healthcare and medical professional during your placement, and depending on your education and experience, you can assist with different procedures or help doctors and nurses with their day-to-day work. This internship is open to students and professionals as well as volunteers interested in learning about medical care – if you do not have relevant education or experience, you may only be able to observe, but you will still learn a great deal through your experience in Ecuador. This internship starts from one week at $549 –  learn more and apply!

“I volunteered through Love Volunteers for 2 and a half months in Kenya and Tanzania in 2012 and loved every minute of it. Love Volunteers were extremely helpful and quick to respond to any questions I had. Prior to leaving I was nervous to fly out to Kenya but had email and skype contact with the coordinators in both Kenya and Tanzania. The country guide Love Volunteers sent out was informative and really useful for planning my trip. Love were also very flexible as I changed plans while away and stayed longer and this was all handled seamlessly. I also managed to have the opportunity to do some traveling and day trips while over there. The projects I and the other volunteers worked on were amazing and while I was taken out of my comfort zone on occasion it was truly worthwhile and everything I had hoped for in my trip to Africa. Overall my experience with Love Volunteers was fantastic and I can’t wait to do more volunteering through them.”- Amanda Susan, January 2013

Agape Volunteers

About the program : Based in the United Kingdom,  Agape Volunteers  mobilizes volunteers across the world to provide humanitarian support in volunteer projects in  Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania, and South Africa . Agape sends volunteers to schools that it either funds or operates itself. Volunteers are always working directly for Agape and have the opportunity to purchase educational or adventure excursions to supplement their trip at a low additional cost. In order to best support and recruit passionate volunteers, Agape works hard to maintain reasonably-priced volunteer trips beginning at £510 for a short term trip, which already includes your room & board, registration fee, and  free comprehensive travel insurance .

Where to Go:  Music enthusiasts will be especially interested in volunteering with  Agape’s flagship music school in Ghana . Volunteers will have the opportunity to work with children who would normally not be provided any music education at all. Volunteers plan and run music classes for students of all ages and work with full-time instructors in order to make use of resources available. Classes are offered in basic keyboarding, singing, and music theory. The school owns several organs, keyboards, an acoustic guitar, a bass guitar, and a battered drum kit that volunteers are able to use as they plan lessons to benefit the students. Volunteers on a budget may also want to check out  Agape’s Kenya Program , as a one week all-inclusive (minus airfare) trip costs just under $520 USD and volunteers have the opportunity to choose from working in the areas of medical care, sports, HIV/AIDS, and teaching English to schoolchildren.

“If you want your eyes opened and have a top experience this is the place to go, and Agape Volunteers was there to help at every step. I stayed in Kenya for just under a month – if it wasn’t for the day job dragging me back I’d still be there. Wanting to do something a little different this year I set about searching the web for things to do – every site I went on seemed either really expensive for what you got or just too complicated to sort out. Luckily a friend had recommended Agape so I decided to book with them. Not a seasoned traveler I wasn’t too confident in what I was doing – I considered trying to sort everything out myself and ‘going alone’ but looking back the facilities and guidance which were provided helped massively and I’m glad I booked via them. ” – Tim Holmes, May 2015

Global Works

For over 25 years,  Global Works  has combined community service, cultural exchange, language immersion, and adventure for a fun, impactful travel experience for high school students, educators, and groups. Summer adventures start from 8 days – perfect for short-term travelers – and can focus on conservation, community development, pre-med or public health, and language immersion. A few of the wonderful places you can travel to with Global Works include Puerto Rico, Nepal, Costa Rica, Martinique, and beyond.

Fiji Islands: Sulus, Sun, and Service

With Global Works’ 13-day  excursion to Fiji , you’ll have the amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in Fijian lifestyle, take an eco-adventure, and volunteer within a rural village. You’ll spend the first few days of your trip at an eco-resort on the Sunshine Coast, where you’ll take part in an orientation and welcome, and even volunteer at a local school.

After that, you’ll travel to a remote mountain village, where you’ll volunteer in the community – a few tasks may include building nurses’ stations, refurbishing classrooms, teaching English, or planting trees. You’ll finish your trip with a boat excursion of the Sunshine Coast, an optional SCUBA course, and a waterfall hike.

Guatemala: Mayan Explorer

If you have 12 days to travel, take a look at Global Works’  Mayan Explorer opportunity in Guatemala . You’ll start with an orientation in Quiché in the Guatemalan highlands, and home to the largest indigenous Maya population. After that, you’ll visit the Mayan ruins of Iximche and travel to the town of Chajul, where you will learn about Maya culture and language, and work alongside local community members on projects such as classroom construction, library volunteering, English and photography course teaching, and more.

Once you wrap up your  volunteer work , you’ll travel to Lake Atitlán to go kayaking, shopping, and zip lining – and finally finishing your trip with a visit to Antigua, where you will take a salsa dancing lesson and reflect on your amazing Guatemalan adventure with your fellow travelers.

Puerto Rico: Building Communities

Another short-term adventure not to miss is Global Works’ 8-day  community building program in Puerto Rico . You’ll start with an orientation and guided tour of San Juan, where you’ll see some of Puerto Rico’s historic sites – such as El Morro fort and the Rio Piedras Market – and you’ll even take a dance lesson. On days 2 through 6, you’ll volunteer with community development projects in Villa del Río, a small village where you’ll refurbish homes, help with education programs, and immerse yourself in the culture. You’ll finish your trip with an excursion to Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park, and a celebratory dinner to reflect on the great work you did for a community in need.

Plan My Gap Year

Founded in 2011,  Plan My Gap Year  places travelers on affordable volunteer projects ranging from childcare, to teaching, to wildlife conservation, and much more in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. All of PMGY’s programs are personally inspected and vetted by their team to ensure project safety and transparency, and to be sure that you’re matched with a project that complements your skills and interests. With recognition including the Shell LiveWire Grand Idea Award, Thailand Green Excellence Award, and Special Recognition from the United Nations in Sri Lanka, Plan My Gap Year is a wonderful organization to check out if you want to make a positive impact.

Volunteer in Sri Lanka

Based in  Ambalangoda , an exotic beachside location in the Southern province of Sri Lanka, Plan My Gap Year offers several volunteer trips including child care, English teaching, medical care, turtle conservation, and others. As PMGY’s most popular travel destination, Sri Lanka is a wonderful place where you can embark on an affordable and impactful adventure. PMGY’s Sri Lanka trips start from one week at $375 –  learn more and sign up here!

Volunteer in Bali

Another island destination to check out with Plan My Gap Year is  Bali , where you can teach English, care for children, work in wildlife conservation, or gain experience in medical care for one to two weeks or longer. Bali is PMGY’s top up-and-coming travel destination, and offers lots of amazing scenery and activities for travelers who want to enjoy the beach, go hiking in mountains, and much more. PMGY’s Bali programs start from only $270 for your first week –  click here to learn more!

Volunteer in Ghana

If you’ve always wanted to travel to Africa, Plan My Gap Year has several different chances to  volunteer in Ghana  right now: from supporting disabled children, to teaching English, to providing medical care, and more, PMGY is a great way to immerse yourself in this West African country while making an impact. Volunteer placements in Ghana start from two weeks at $375, with the opportunity to visit Cape Coast, Elmina, and many other locales.  Learn more and sign up here!

Mini India Experience

Experience the  diversity and beauty of India  with Plan My Gap Year’s mini, two-week adventure and volunteer program! After spending five days in Kerala volunteering to care for and teach English to some of India’s poorest children, you’ll explore the tea-covered hills of spice plantations in “God’s Own Country.” Highlights of this trip include yoga lessons, seeing a Bollywood movie, sleeping on a houseboat drifting on the backwater, trekking through Munnar’s tea-growing countryside, learning about the iconic Mahatma Gandhi, trying exotic foods, and wandering through the seaside town of Kochi. This enriching, inspiring program is a two-week journey with fees starting at only $435.

Volunteer in Bali with Wildlife

Spend a week at Plan My Gap Year’s  Bali Wildlife Rescue Centre , where you will spend time caring for rescued animals! As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to care for endangered animals that once were victims of poachers and wildlife traffickers – a few tasks that you will take on include assisting in feeding, enclosure cleaning, performing general maintenance, and spending time socializing with animals to help them overcome their mistrust of people and of each other. With more than three dozen species of animals at the center needing care, you may have the opportunity to assist the veterinarian as well. This program starts at $270, and you can sign up to start on the first and third Sunday of any month.

Fronteering

About the Program : If you’re ready for an adventure that’s exotic, unique, and truly off the beaten path, check out  Fronteering , which offers volunteer programs in wild locations worldwide starting from one week at $695. Destinations include unspoiled locations throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australasia, with projects ranging from indigenous community support, to wildlife research, to environmental conservation. Check out these three short-term volunteer programs you can sign up for with Fronteering!

Where to Go:  Right now, Fronteering is offering short-term volunteer opportunities all over the world, and no shortage of adventurous projects to choose from. In Australia, you can volunteer at the  Kangaroo Island Wildlife Sanctuary  with different species of animals you won’t find anywhere else in the world – like koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas.

If you want to visit Africa, check out this  whale conservation program , where you’ll research and conserve dolphins and whales on the South African coastline. And in South America, Fronteering invites you to  Guyana , where you can volunteer with an indigenous community, and help with sustainable development, teaching, and much more. Learn more about Fronteering and its many unique volunteer and intern abroad programs  here !

Via Volunteers

Looking for short-term volunteer abroad programs in South Africa? Then look no further than  Via Volunteers . Based in Cape Town, Via Volunteers has over 15 years of experience looking after volunteers in South Africa and is passionate about ethical volunteering.

As a short-term volunteer with Via Volunteers, you can have a rewarding and meaningful experience on a variety of projects, including childcare, community development, and conservation initiatives. Via Volunteers provides excellent support, from pre-departure planning and airport transfers to orientation, accommodation, and in-country support. To date, they’ve hosted volunteers from more than 60 countries. Via Volunteers only supports sustainable projects where there’s a genuine need, so rest assured your short-term volunteer work abroad will have an impact!

Cape Town Children’s Hospital Program

Help special youngsters recover and thrive at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital! As a  Children’s Hospital volunteer in Cape Town , you’ll promote learning and growth through interactions and activities, and reduce children’s stress and strain through play, relaxation, and socialization. To reduce the burden on hospital staff, you’ll also assist with administrative tasks.

Ready to get these amazing children back on their feet? Fees begin from $302 per week. You can join for one week or longer.  Volunteer with children in Cape Town today!

Homeless Feeding Program in Cape Town

Join Pastor John and his staff on this impactful homeless program. When you  volunteer with the homeless in Cape Town,  the core focus will be to get essential meals to residents and visitors. Beyond that, you’ll help underprivileged children with homework, take daily attendance, collect donations, and more. Your help will ensure the residents have a better path to stability and happiness.

When you’re not volunteering, explore the city. The  Via Volunteers app  has a Cape Town bucket list feature so you can experience all the famous sites and activities.

Ready to combat homelessness in Cape Town? Fees begin from $320 per week. You can join for one week or longer.  Volunteer to help the homeless today!

Vervet Monkey Rehabilitation in South Africa

Want to volunteer with monkeys? Then head to a  non-profit primate sanctuary near Kruger National Park . There, you’ll care for over 500 injured, abused, and orphaned vervet monkeys. Duties include:

• preparing food, cleaning cages, and washing blankets
• hands-on care of baby monkeys
• assistance with giving medications
• general monitoring of the monkeys
• participation in educational outreach

Sound like the volunteer adventure for you? The vervet monkey rehab project begins from $305 per week. You can join for two weeks or longer.  Click here to register!

“I had the most wonderful experience through the Children’s Hospital Play Programme. Emmy, the volunteer coordinator, is wonderful and loves her volunteers with such an overwhelming passion! I was so blessed to serve the patients and their families. The happiness that these children brought to my life is ten times the amount of happiness than I could ever have brought them. Such a life-changing experience! Also, Ed and Heather are amazing! They made my time spent in South Africa stress-free.” – Charlotte, a volunteer from the USA, on the Children’s Hospital project

A Broader View Volunteers Corp (ABV)

About the program : Founded in Pennsylvania,  A Broader View Volunteers (ABV) coordinates volunteer abroad projects all over the world for passionate volunteers on a budget. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, ABV offers support through every aspect of volunteers’ travel and prides themselves on serving their communities and volunteers to the best of their ability.

ABV places all of its volunteers in low-income communities so that their service is able to enrich the lives of those who need it the most. ABV also provides housing so that its volunteers are able to live as part of the same community that they serve and allows volunteers to serve in the areas of daycare work, community development, teaching, animal conservation and rehabilitation, and community development. A Broader View is currently one of the top-ranked programs on Volunteer Forever  with over 100 positive reviews of its projects.

Where to Go:  A Broader View  offers plenty of strong volunteer abroad programs including programs in Guatemala, Ecuador, and Costa Rica. Each of these programs has stunning features that might make it the perfect volunteer opportunity for you. Premedical, pre-dental, or pre-nursing  students who wish to volunteer abroad have three programs to choose from in each of the countries in which ABV coordinates volunteer abroad projects. Medical students interested in traveling to Guatemala should check out their program in  Quetzaltenango (Xela) . Volunteers who work in Xela have the opportunity to work with a local organization that runs a therapy clinic and assist medical professionals with different types of therapy.

If you’re a medical or dental student interested in volunteering abroad, you should check out ABV’s program in Quito, Ecuador, where volunteers work with a local organization that supports local children and families. Volunteers help local professionals provide a variety of services ranging from the common day-to-day medical needs of children to specialized work including working with children who have learning disabilities or helping physical therapy professionals.

A Broader View’s final pre-nursing/pre-dental/pre-medical program  takes volunteers to San Jose, Costa Rica . Volunteers will be placed in a children’s hospital working with doctors and other professionals covering duties such as assisting doctors on their rounds, running meal time for children, assisting with language therapy and other special projects as assigned by doctors. All programs can be combined with an immersive Spanish Language program for an additional fee.

A Broader View also offers  orphanage support programs  for volunteers interested in working with children and helping children receive services such as basic English lessons, training on how to healthily care for themselves, and whatever other duties as necessary.

Volunteers interested in volunteering in Guatemala should become familiar with their program in Quetzaltenango (Xela). Volunteers in Xela help provide daily child care that includes participating in educational activities for children, leading after-school activities, and facilitating important activities such as mealtime and storytime that help make the kids’ lives much more enriching.

A Broader View Volunteers also coordinates an orphanage  support program in Quito , Ecuador. Medical students interested in serving in Ecuador work in a public hospital that especially serves people without health insurance. Volunteers can help further the mission of the hospital by rotating along with the doctors through different departments of the hospital including pediatrics, cardiology, neurology, and pulmonology. All medical volunteerism projects can be included with an optional Spanish immersion program that volunteers may find beneficial to their overall experience.

Volunteers passionate about working with people who are homeless or endangered of losing their homes will be interested in working with  A Broader View’s Welfare Shelter Program in Quito, Ecuador . Volunteers have the opportunity to work with Quito’s poorest residents, helping them meet their most immediate needs such as helping run the shelter, provide clothing and bathing materials, and connecting them to services that support drug addiction and alcoholism. Volunteers may also be interested in working with the shelter’s technology programs, which teach residents valuable skills in order to thrive in today’s job market.

All ABV volunteers have the benefit of choosing their own start date so that they are able to arrange the program as it best fits their needs. All program fees are a donation and are therefore fully tax-deductible and although ABV does not arrange flights for volunteers, they are happy to support volunteers with whatever they need.

A Broader View provided me with a once in a life time opportunity that I will cherish for the rest of my life. ABV enabled me to go on this amazing adventure, and provided me with every little detail that I needed to have an amazing trip. My accommodation, meals and feeling of security was amazing! I feel like I have a second family and a second home in Costa Rica. The beds were super comfy, something I was not expecting. There was never a time where I didn’t feel safe, and I couldn’t be happier with the living and eating provisions I was given. The A Broader View Support before traveling was stellar. I was provided with detailed packing manuals, instructions and pieces of advice as to how to adapt to the new culture I would be immersed in. Any and all questions I had were answered effectively and promptly. ABV was also very accommodative of my itinerary, as I was traveling for five days after volunteering, and they even suggested some travel agents, companies, and activities. To me, ABV is more than just a company providing volunteer opportunities, but a company built by people who are caring, and passionate, and want to provide their customers with the best experience possible. – Kimberly Moore, November 2014

Raleigh International

Since 1984,  Raleigh International  has offered expeditions for youth and adults to volunteer in Nepal, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Tanzania. Projects include clean water and hygiene, natural resources and sustainability, and community development. So far, 400,000 travelers have signed up with Raleigh International, plus another 800 are expected to go on trips this year. As part of their commitment to quality and safety, Raleigh International helped design and currently holds the BS8848 Safety Standard for organizing and managing visits, fieldwork, expeditions, and adventurous activities outside of the UK. Volunteer trips with Raleigh International start from five weeks, depending on the program you sign up for.

Tanzania Expedition

If you’re looking for a meaningful trip to augment your summer vacation, check out Raleigh International’s  Tanzania expedition . Starting from five weeks, this trip combines volunteering and adventure – as a volunteer, you will help with community development projects to improve access to clean water, environmental programs to promote sustainability, and much more. During the adventure portion of your trip, you will test your wilderness survival skills on a trek to the Southern Highlands, and have the chance to view animals and learn about conservation at Ruaha National Park.  Learn more here!

Global Leadership Adventures

Another great program to check out if you’re looking for a meaningful short-term trip is  Global Leadership Adventures . Geared toward high school travelers, Global Leadership Adventures has combined community service, experiential learning, and adventure travel since 2004. Because GLA specializes in youth development through travel, they place a great emphasis on safety and support, which you can see outlined in their  five-point safety system . Global Leadership Adventures also has a database of nearly 2,000 references ready to speak to the impact of their programs – in fact, the organization’s co-founder was  recognized by President Obama  for making a positive impact in Africa.

Dominican Republic: Spring Break Service Adventure

If you’re planning a spring break adventure, check out Global Leadership Adventures’ program in the  Dominican Republic . This one-week trip invites you to help with sustainable development initiatives such as building homes and schools using recycled materials, helping with community health projects, constructing vertical gardens, and much more. You’ll also have the chance to learn about Dominican culture, meet with local community leaders, go snorkeling and zip lining, and much more. This eight-day trip costs $1,899 –  click here to learn more .

Galapagos: Preserving Nature’s Wonders

If you’re most interested in spending your trip abroad helping with animals and environmental conservation, Global Leadership Adventures offers an amazing opportunity to  volunteer in the Galapagos Islands . With two different projects on Isabela Island and San Cristobal Island, you’ll volunteer in a tortoise breeding center, and help to clear invasive species to allow tortoises and birds to re-inhabit the area. During this program, you’ll also have the chance to go swimming with sea lions, birdwatching, and much more. This 14-day program has a tuition of $4,599 –  learn more and sign up here .

Cross-Cultural Solutions

Founded in 1995,  Cross-Cultural Solutions  offers international internships,  gap year  experiences, volunteer trips, and high school volunteering programs in throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Europe. Programs focus on important topics such as child development, girls’ and women’s empowerment, and global health. To date, nearly 35,000 volunteers have traveled with Cross-Cultural Solutions (with a 99% approval rating from past participants), which offers year-round staffing and support within their host communities, a full-time team of local experts to support volunteers, and among the highest standards of safety and well-being in the volunteer travel industry. Volunteer opportunities with Cross-Cultural Solutions start from one week – perfect for short-term travel!

Cross-Cultural Solutions is offering several different volunteer opportunities in  Ghana , including child development, global health, and girls’ and women’s empowerment. For one week or longer, you can volunteer on projects to teach English, help with malaria prevention, foster economic opportunities for women, and much more in Ghana’s Volta region. During this trip, you will be able to take a guided walking tour of the city of Ho, or even view monkeys, birds, and elephants during a visit Kakum National Park.  Learn more here!

Volunteer in India

If India is on your must-visit list, take a look at Cross-Cultural Solutions’ volunteer trips to  Dharamsala  or to  New Delhi , where you can volunteer for one week or longer on a variety of projects, including:

• Supporting children in community groups and child care centers
• Providing public health outreach, education, and care to vulnerable children and adults in low-income communities
• Helping women create financial independence and leadership skills to support their families and communities

Depending on which trip you sign up for, you can go on a scavenger hunt through Dharamsala, take a tour of New Delhi, visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar, or even visit the gorgeous Taj Mahal.

Volunteer in Morocco

As a volunteer with Cross-Cultural Solutions in Rabat,  Morocco , you will have the chance to help with children’s development, girls’ and women’s empowerment, and global health programs to support low-income communities. During your stay, you can tour the city of Rabat, visit the Chellah ruins, take Arabic language lessons, learn about Islamic history, and much more for one week or longer.  Learn more here!

Naturally Africa Volunteers (NAV)

About the program :  Naturally Africa Volunteers (NAV)  coordinates sustainable, community-centered volunteer abroad projects of two to twelve weeks throughout Kenya, South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania, and Ghana. Naturally Africa Volunteers seeks to solidify its change on two levels– by coordinating high-impact, well-researched volunteers programs and through supporting its international volunteers from the moment they join the project. NAV is dedicated to making sure that each volunteer has the best experience possible and is able to work fruitfully in communities across Africa.

Where to Go:  Although  Naturally Africa Volunteers  supports programs in many areas of interest, volunteers interested in a short-term volunteer project (2-3 weeks) will especially be interested in  NAV’s Wild Coast School Project , which places volunteers in underfunded rural South African schools supporting full-time staff and volunteers. Volunteers will have the opportunity to work with students aged 6-14 promoting computer literacy, often through traveling through rural schools alongside state-of-the-art technology education equipment including laptops that the students usually lack access to.

My time in Malawi was amazing. Meg, Sam and Aug were the main reason. They provided a balanced view on how to go about my role as a volunteer. I can not describe how inspired I was by the whole trip and the staff at the cottage. The structure of the project was brilliant. You can clearly see the priorities. Keeping a good relationship with the village population and the elders was their main focus. Providing amazing support to the wound clinics, HIV support groups, nursery and home based care groups was incredible. I am very lucky I was part of the development of the different village I visited. At the weekends I got to experience other parts of Malawi. Like the landscape and culture outside the village. I wish I could have stayed for longer. I hope to return to Malawi in the near future. – Maria, March 2015

Global Volunteers

Global Volunteers  is a renowned volunteer travel organization, connecting people of all ages and skill levels on placements 16 countries worldwide. Volunteer help establish mutual understanding between people of diverse cultures as they work on meaningful projects in the areas of teaching conversational English, math, science, and computer literacy; building, repairing, and painting community facilities; providing health, hygiene, nutrition, and infectious disease education; establishing school and household gardens; caring for at risk children, and more. Founded in 1984, Global Volunteers has connected more than 34,000 volunteers of all ages with impactful programs on six continents. The organization is led by experts in human and economic development, and its in-country managers are highly educated nationals. Its sustainable programs are developed through community-based partnerships. Global Volunteers was granted Special Consultative Status with the United Nations in 1999, and has partnered with UNICEF since 2008. Service program contribution, airfare, and visa expenses are tax-deductible for U.S. citizens. First-time volunteers are eligible for deep discounts from Global Volunteers on a limited basis. Ranging from $50 to $500, discounts are available for full-time students, groups, and even for early registration. Earn $100 credit for referrals, with no limit on the number of referrals. Alumni volunteers appreciate the $200 discount when traveling on international programs, and the $50 discount for U.S. programs with Global Volunteers.  Read more  about how you can save money traveling abroad with Global Volunteers.

Global Volunteers in the United States

At a time when there’s a spotlight on America’s richest 1%, a look at the country’s  310 Indian reservations , where many of America’s poorest 1% live, can be more enlightening. Many of the nation’s people who live on Indian Reservations are the poorest of the poor. There are many contributing factors, one being that property is communally held and individuals do not prosper from increasing property values. Indian Reservations are not located in economic centers capable of provide family-sustaining jobs. Another devastated community, the Appalachian region of America’s East Coast, West Virginia, is another option. Read on to learn more about Global Volunteers and its programs in three underserved communities in the United States. Your contribution fee begins at $1,095. Choose from one- or two-week stays, which includes accommodations, meals, transportation to your project, and educational materials.

Montana, USA

Volunteering on the  Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana, USA , requires a courageous and sensitive heart. The Native American people have suffered greatly, and their needs are unique. Your unique social skills can benefit the Children’s Summer Program by supervising field trips. You will be able to improve the quality of people’s lives by repairing community buildings. Volunteers also assist at the Elder Care Center and visit one-on-one with Blackfeet elders. Depending upon your professional experience, you may help teens who are in protective custody due to a family trouble. Volunteers are needed to do crisis work, and your compassion and care will lessen their problems. As you immerse yourself in the Blackfeet Culture, you will be provided an insider’s perspective of Native American life, including their food, music, and art. Nestled in the foothills of Glacier National Park, every day you will be able to rest your soul and soak in the Big Sky of Montana.  Read about volunteering with Blackfeet Indian Reservation .

South Dakota, USA

Amid the plains of South Dakota,  Rosebud Reservation  is home to the Sicangu Sioux people, one of the seven tribes of the Lakota Nation. On Rosebud Reservation, poverty is at an all-time high, with unemployment over 80%, and 76% of the working residents living below the poverty line. The community is at risk with its primary need: quality shelter. Volunteers on this program focus on repairing homes and community buildings, and those with electrical and plumbing skills are especially needed. Labor assistance will make an enormous difference, and volunteers who help split and deliver firewood will know they are keeping people warm and safe in the winter. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to use your hands and skills to improve the living conditions of the people here.  Learn more about volunteering with Rosebud Reservation .

West Virginia, USA

West Virginia is a beautiful state, and so are its residents, resilient people who are economically devastated by the closing of the coalfields. Volunteers are needed to help rehabilitate dilapidated and energy-inefficient homes and community buildings. Many trades are needed to assist in the labor-intensive projects, but if you don’t have experience, don’t worry. You will have lots to do, scraping, sanding, and painting. If physical labor isn’t your forte, volunteers also are needed to help elementary children read with their Summer Enrichment program. You’ll make a tremendous difference by tutoring a teen or young adult to complete their GED. The Appalachian idea of heaven will seep into your soul as you experience the homemade farm-to-table delicacies, music, and hospitality of West Virginians.  Learn more about volunteering in West Virginia .

Get going on your short-term volunteer abroad trip!

Now that you know that time is not an issue when volunteering abroad and have an idea of some of the incredible programs that are out there, your only question should be, “When?” Each of the volunteer abroad opportunities above is perfect for the volunteer with limited time and funding and these programs are representatives of a much larger pool of sustainable, short-term volunteer opportunities. In almost any country, there are dozens of fantastic opportunities just like the ones above. All you have to do is use Volunteer Forever’s tools to find the perfect volunteer abroad opportunity for you and take the steps to creating change that is truly extraordinary– all within a few weeks.

P.S. If you’re still looking for a volunteer opportunity, check out our list of  best volunteer abroad programs  and recommended volunteer projects in  Africa ,  Central America , and  Thailand . You can also read about 7  Great Medical and Veterinary Volunteer Abroad Projects ,  10 Dental Volunteer Abroad Program and Medical Mission Tips for Pre Dental Students , and  nursing volunteer abroad projects for students and nurse professionals . Or, if medical volunteer projects aren’t for you, be sure to read about our  sports and coaching volunteer abroad ,  wildlife conservation and veterinary  abroad,  teach abroad , and  intern abroad  programs. Lastly, if you’re under 18, you may be interested in a  teen volunteer abroad  from one of our many great partners.

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Brittany Edwardes · Guest Volunteer Travel Writer

Brittany Edwardes is a Fulbright Scholar who spent a year teaching and living in Southeast Asia. Brittany is very passionate about service learning, spending time outdoors, and making her own pasta.

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Volunteer abroad or intern abroad on a gap year or 6 month quest, immerse yourself in a world outside your own experience.  gain a new appreciation for the world around you. discover the richness of giving back and helping others. learn how to live outside your comfort zone. appreciate the value of hard work, empathy, and compassion., united planet’s gap year program, for 6 months or 1 year, is a unique opportunity to live, learn, and volunteer abroad or intern abroad. united planet is the u.s./canadian member of the international cultural youth exchange  (icye)., united planet also offers 6-month virtual volunteering and virtual internships in 25 countries. learn more about our virtual volunteering and virtual internship countries and projects., volunteer in costa rica, volunteer abroad in moldova, how to enroll, 1. choose a project, 3. get ready, long-term countries.

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Why do people take 6 -12 months out of their life to take a gap year with United Planet?

• To experience something different.
• To discover something about themselves.
• To find their own purpose.
• To connect. To learn. To grow.
• To immerse themselves in a culture, perhaps their own heritage.

What will it be like for you? It will be your very own mission of discovery, and we will help you every step of the way.

Special Volunteer Award – Taylor Paraboschi

We are so proud of volunteers like Taylor who do their part to create a global community, one relationship at a time. Taylor volunteered for one year in a small primary school in Amager, Denmark.  During the day, she would help out in English classes for grades three to nine, assisting teachers with lessons and helping out with the needs of the classroom.  In the afternoons, Taylor would take the younger children on field trips and conduct other activities as part of an after-school program.

Taylor would like to recognize her host family, the Frødings, from her host community.  Taylor says, “They treated me like part of their family, getting to know me and letting me truly get to know them; they were overwhelmingly generous with their time and energy, going out of their way to introduce me to traditional Danish customs and to have me experience parts of Denmark I wouldn’t normally have seen. Being a host family isn’t easy but through kindness, understanding, and a healthy dose of Danish humor, the Frødings truly made Denmark feel like my second home.”

Program Details

A United Planet gap year is designed to be immersive, authentic, comprehensive and provide you everything you’ll need to succeed. The program elements allow you to engage fully with a new culture, forge strong relationships, and challenge yourself. Most importantly, we partner with the community to ensure your experience will be important, relevant and helpful to the community you serve.

United Planet offers gap year programs as the U.S. and Canadian member of the  International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) Federation , with over 65 years in cultural exchange.

Here is a brief overview of what's included in your gap year program:

• Cross-cultural  pre- departure training  with United Planet staff and other volunteers
• Food and lodging in your host country (host family or shared residence)
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• Travel and medical insurance
• In-country orientation upon arrival and ongoing support and supervision throughout your Quest
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• Monthly stipend for incidental expenses
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Have questions? We’re here for you. We’d love to help.

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A Guide to Volunteer Abroad for 3-6 Months

So maybe you’ve dipped your toe in or even waded around a bit in the pool of volunteering abroad and you’ve found a new passion. Now you’re ready to go off the deep end (at least, that’s what your parents are probably thinking). You’ve proven that you can swim, so go ahead and get fully immersed, disconnect from the life-back-home ring, and commit your time to social good. Maybe you need summer break plans or you are really sick of winter and you’ve decided to throw caution into the frosty winter wind and volunteer abroad for 3-6 months.

Why Volunteer Abroad for 3-6 months?

Most importantly, a period of 3-6 months of volunteering will allow you the time required to build relationships. Building relationships with communities, businesses, orphanages, host families, etc. doesn’t happen overnight. Over the course of 3-6 months, you will be able to see and feel the difference your efforts are making as a volunteer abroad.

Another great reason volunteering for 3-6 months is such an ideal time frame is because you will have time to see a project through. You’ll make it past the input period (i.e. learning about your site, the beneficiaries, the organizational culture, etc.) and still have enough time in the output period (i.e. taking initiative, leading programs, implementing change).

Choosing a location to plant yourself for 3-6 months is not a decision to be made willy-nilly. Honing in on one spot can be hard, so if you need some ideas to get started, check out some of these most popular locations for 3-6 month volunteer programs:

South Africa . South Africa is one of the most popular destinations for volunteers around the world. With the end of apartheid, the country is doing its best to progress, creating ample opportunities for volunteering. As a volunteer in South Africa, you will see a country amidst great change and transition, an exciting time to both be a part of and experience. There are mountains to hike, beaches with good surf, close encounters with nature in its purest form, traditions you can only get from rural villages, and vibrant cities to explore in your free time, too. If you are looking for a perfect 3-6 month combo of volunteering, learning, and adventure, you’re looking in the right place!

Philippines . Whether you’re looking for a volunteer trip laced with adventures or relaxation, the Philippines has it all. Volunteering in the Philippines not only gives you the chance to explore this world of tempting tropics and teeming cities, it also offers the opportunity to expand your world perspective and gain a deeper understanding of poverty. The limited social development along with common economic hardships among the nation's people provides 3-6 month long volunteers with a vast array of opportunities for volunteer work in the Philippines from placements in rural health clinics to orphanages to construction sites. 

Brazil . There’s much more to Brazil than just fiestas and futbol. Brazil’s size entails access to vast and diverse landscape containing the Amazon Rainforest, waterfalls, beaches, and a semi-desert. Although Brazil is a lively tropical paradise, it’s also a developing country with an enormous wealth gap and a need for committed volunteers. Individuals who volunteer in Brazil for 3-6 months will help locals to achieve social, economic, and environmental change and development.

Popular activities

There is a lot you can accomplish while volunteering abroad for 3-6 months. Your options are seemingly limitless. To help narrow it down, check out some of the best programs that fit within the 3-6 month time frame:

Teaching . Volunteer teaching abroad is accessible to many people—whether they have a degree in education or not. Volunteering in as a teacher or teaching assistant for a 3-6 month term is an excellent way to test if a career in teaching is something you could see yourself spending more than a semester doing. Volunteer teaching abroad gives individuals specific classroom experience even before a practicum or student teaching placement is possible, and adds a competitive edge to any resume.

Media . Becoming a media volunteer abroad is your opportunity to tackle global concerns head on. The passion you have for journalism, photography, and videography will grow with every project you work on and contribute to real change. Enhance your portfolio while tackling burdensome social issues in other parts of the world through media volunteer work. Most importantly, tell stories and recreate settings with every picture you take, video you record, or article you write to share real-life experiences from real-people in foreign countries.

Community Development . The concept of community development is broad. Basically, any group of people taking collective action to achieve a common goal or solve a universal problem is seen as community development—and it is one of the best ways to accomplish real change through volunteer work abroad. The best community development projects benefit entire cities, countries, and regions, and often the overall environment, but the main focus of volunteering in community development is to raise the standard of living for those experiencing unique struggles or exceptional need in some way.

GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop

See the big picture. Volunteering for 3-6 months abroad gives you the time to complete a big project from start to finish. This allows you to zoom out and see and appreciate the long-term impact all your hard work will have. This includes all those deep and meaningful relationships you made too.

Get your ducks in a row. Putting your life “on pause” for 3-6 months can be a logistical nightmare. You will probably have to sort out your job or school situation or sublet or give up your apartment, for example. But don’t worry—all this tedious work will be well worth it.

Take the time to explore. You’ve got some wiggle room for additional travel when you volunteer abroad for 3-6 months. When you need to step back from a project and get some fresh insight, do a little sightseeing, explore neighboring areas, and come back to the task with newfound inspiration.

No matter how you slice it, 3-6 months is pretty much the perfect amount of time to volunteer abroad. You will have enough time to get truly adjusted to your environment, make meaningful relationships, and do life-changing work!

Come stay at Home & Co and live the easy living experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Find out all the answers to the most commonly asked questions.

What is long term volunteering?

Long-term volunteering is committing to a volunteer project for several months or longer, allowing participants to immerse themselves in a culture, understand community issues, and make a significant impact through sustained efforts.

• The Keys to Long Term Volunteering Abroad

How to Become a Long Term Volunteer Abroad

What is an example of long term volunteering.

If you intend to spend an extended time in long-term volunteering, some options include medical volunteering , teaching , wildlife and environmental conservation , and community development projects .

• 7 Most Popular Volunteer Travel Opportunities in the World

Where can I volunteer abroad for 3-6 months?

The Philippines , Brazil , and South Africa are popular destinations for 3-6 months of volunteering, allowing participants to engage in community development , conservation , and rural health clinics .

• 16 Best Places to Volunteer Abroad in 2023

How much does it cost to volunteer abroad for 3-6 months?

Fees often range from $3,000 to $7,000 and may vary depending on the destination, program type, accommodation, and other factors. Consider researching and comparing programs, as some may include more or fewer benefits in their fees.

• How Much Does It Cost to Volunteer Abroad? We Dove Deep to Find Out
• 6 Questions to Ask About Your Volunteer Abroad Program Costs

Why are long term volunteering better?

Long-term volunteering allows participants to create lasting change and a significant impact. It also allows participants to completely immerse in the culture, making the experience more meaningful for both the volunteers and the community.

• How Long Should I Volunteer Abroad?

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View when driving from Yelisovo airport to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

The first myth I want to disprove is that getting to Kamchatka is extremely costly. It’s not. Going between February and April, a return flight from Moscow can be had for 11,000 roubles (US$380 / £220). Not bad for 18 hours total flying time. In summer the flights are more expensive but still, if you book them a few months in advance, can be got for 16,000 roubles return.

It’s true, many people will tell you that March and April are the worst months to visit because the snow is starting to melt and everything’s a bit sloshy and dirty in settlements. On the other hand, these are great months for the independent traveller! During winter zimniki (temporary winter roads made of compacted snow or simply frozen river surfaces) open up all over Kamchatka, granting access to communities that in summer are totally isolated. Hitch hiking is possible right from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to the very north of the peninsula. Alternatively, vehicles can be hired in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky from tour firms. Also in the winter or early spring months places can be reached that are away even from the zimniki, either by snowmobile or by the use of cross country skis. For example, Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Eurasia’s largest active volcano, can be accessed from the village of Klyuchi without the need even for a guide by a traveller with a pair of cross country skis. Bears do not wake up until mid-April so this is not a danger, but bears almost never attack anyone anyway.

The main disadvantages of winter travel in Kamchatka are that it is cold, there is no greenery and there are no bears, which some people come here especially to see.

The second myth I’d like to dispel is that travel around the peninsula requires hiring a helicopter. As mentioned above, in winter you can get almost anywhere by hitch hiking. I even hitched a lift with bear hunters on snowmobiles from their village to a reindeer herder encampment 100km away. In summer snowmobiles are replaced by horses, and transport is reduced from long distance ice-road journeys to irregular inter-settlement all-terrain vehicle trips. Hitch hiking is possible on these all-terrain vehicles though.

Throughout the year there are fairly expensive public helicopter flights to all settlements which are nevertheless much cheaper than hiring your own helicopter. There is also one permanent, year-round dirt road leading halfway up the peninsula. Some distance after the town of Milkovo, about 350km north of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky , it forks. The right fork leads to Klyuchi , site of Eurasia’s largest active volcano, and further to the port town of Ust-Kamchatsk. The left fork leads to the indigenous Even villages of Anavgay and Esso. Daily buses go from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to Klyuchi , Anavgay and Esso, costing about 1000 roubles each way. In winter a zimnik passable by lorries heads north from Anavgay 36 hours to the otherwise isolated town of Palana. From Palana more zimniki head further north to yet more isolated settlements. From the peninsula’s very northernmost settlements there are even EXTREMELY irregular snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle connections with Magadan Oblast and Chukotka. Another zimnik, only passable by all-terrain vehicle, heads from Anavgay to the village of Ust-Khayryuzovo on Kamchatka’s west coast.

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Passport DC: A month-long celebration of culture returns with free events

by Melanie Hastings

WASHINGTON, D.C. (7News) — Now that the Cherry Blossom Festival is over, there's plenty more to do in D.C. this May.

Passport DC is a free month-long event highlighting D.C.'s vibrant international community and various cultures.

An estimated 27,000 people will be coming out to enjoy the popular embassy open houses, street festivals, cultural performances, exhibitions, workshops and more.

One of its favorite programs, "Around the World Embassy Tour" starts the weekend of May 4.

SEE ALSO | Spring Gift Guide 2024: More collectibles, books, & oddities

"Several of the embassies in Washington decide collectively that they want to participate, open their doors. And for free, visitors can come and eat the food from that country, listen to music, and really enjoy all activities that are cultural and specific to that individual country," said Elliott Ferguson, President and CEO of Destination DC.

Different embassies will open their doors every weekend throughout May.

"The first weekend will be non-European Union embassies, and there are over five that will actually be participating, 50 in all, so each weekend will represent a different part of the globe," Ferguson added.

Also happening the first weekend of May, on May 3 and 4, is the much anticipated National Cathedral Flower Mart.

You can shop for plants and gifts, eat festival food, enjoy children’s activities, ride the historic carousel and take in the beauty of the cathedral’s gardens and grounds.

This is the Cathedral's main fundraiser for the year.

Bring the whole family down to the Anacostia River Park for the Anacostia River Festival on May 4th. The main focus is fishing and conservation - but there are other activities including food, music, vendors and entertainment.

"Learn more about fishing on the Anacostia and conservation, which is extremely important as the federal government has taken a lot of time and energy to clean the river. And we're excited about the fact that fish and other wildlife has returned to that area," Ferguson said.

The Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival comes to the Kennedy Center May 11 and 12.

And on May 18, the Fiesta Asia street festival takes over Pennsylvania Avenue.

All these events are free.

For more information, go here .

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2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention

Suicide is an urgent and growing public health crisis. More than 49,000 people in the United States died by suicide in 2022. That’s one death every 11 minutes.

National Strategy for Suicide Prevention

The 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention is a bold new 10-year, comprehensive, whole-of-society approach to suicide prevention that provides concrete recommendations for addressing gaps in the suicide prevention field. This coordinated and comprehensive approach to suicide prevention at the national, state, tribal, local, and territorial levels relies upon critical partnerships across the public and private sectors. People with lived experience are critical to the success of this work. 

 The National Strategy seeks to prevent suicide risk in the first place; identify and support people with increased risk through treatment and crisis intervention; prevent reattempts; promote long-term recovery; and support survivors of suicide loss. 

Four strategic directions guide the National Strategy:

Strategic Direction 1: Community-Based Suicide Prevention

Goal 1: Establish effective, broad-based, collaborative, and sustainable suicide prevention partnerships.

Goal 2: Support upstream comprehensive community-based suicide prevention.

Goal 3: Reduce access to lethal means among people at risk of suicide.

Goal 4: Conduct postvention and support people with suicide-centered lived experience.

Goal 5: Integrate suicide prevention into the culture of the workplace and into other community settings.

Goal 6: Build and sustain suicide prevention infrastructure at the state, tribal, local, and territorial levels.

Goal 7: Implement research-informed suicide prevention communication activities in diverse populations using best practices from communication science.

Strategic Direction 2: Treatment and Crisis Services

Goal 8: Implement effective suicide prevention services as a core component of health care.

Goal 9: Improve the quality and accessibility of crisis care services across all communities.

Strategic Direction 3: Surveillance, Quality Improvement, and Research

Goal 10: Improve the quality, timeliness, scope, usefulness, and accessibility of data needed for suicide-related surveillance, research, evaluation, and quality improvement.

Goal 11: Promote and support research on suicide prevention.

Strategic Direction 4: Health Equity in Suicide Prevention

Goal 12: Embed health equity into all comprehensive suicide prevention activities.

Goal 13: Implement comprehensive suicide prevention strategies for populations disproportionately affected by suicide, with a focus on historically marginalized communities, persons with suicide-centered lived experience, and youth.

Goal 14: Create an equitable and diverse suicide prevention workforce that is equipped and supported to address the needs of the communities they serve.

Goal 15: Improve and expand effective suicide prevention programs for populations disproportionately impacted by suicide across the life span through improved data, research, and evaluation.

Federal Action Plan

The Federal Action Plan identifies more than 200 actions across the federal government to be taken over the next three years in support of those goals. These actions include:

• Evaluating promising community-based suicide prevention strategies
• Identifying ways to address substance use/overdose and suicide risk together in the clinical setting
• Funding a mobile crisis locator for use by 988 crisis centers
• Increasing support for survivors of suicide loss and others whose lives have been impacted by suicide

These actions will be monitored and evaluated regularly to determine progress and success, and to further identify barriers to suicide prevention.

Get Involved

Join the conversation. Everyone has a role to play in preventing the tragedy of suicide. Find social media material, templates, and other resources to support and participate in the shared effort.

Read the press release

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Best Time To Visit Vancouver, Canada [2024]

Updated : April 29, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, SMT

Table of contents, best season to visit vancouver for great weather, when to get the lowest prices while visiting vancouver , when to visit vancouver if you’re a foodie, book your vancouver trip through aaa.

In 2022, nearly 9 million people visited the beautiful city of Vancouver, Canada. Vancouver is the home to many popular attractions and plenty of things to do in and around the area. 

To ensure you have the best experience possible, you’ll want to plan your trip around the best time to visit Vancouver. Although the city is an ideal destination throughout the year, some seasons are better than others.

Keep reading to learn more about the best time to visit Vancouver as well as what you can expect during different times of the year. We discuss what the seasons are like in Vancouver, plus go over the best times of year to visit if you’re looking to save money or want to tickle your taste buds with delicious food.

The best time to visit Vancouver, Canada, is during the summer months of June, July, and August, according to the locals who say it’s the best time of year . During the summer months, the weather is a bit warmer, so there’s more to do. Although this may be the best time of year for weather and activities, it’s helpful to note that it’s busier and more expensive.

Throughout the year, Vancouver is a great city to visit. There are great locations, like Stanley Park, as well as events all year long. There are even awesome things to do in Vancouver without a car . Some of the attractions in the area are dependent on the season, so let’s discuss the best time to go to Vancouver.

Summer: June - August

The summers in the city are nice and cool. The Vancouver weather in July reaches highs of about 66.7 degrees Fahrenheit, and it’s the sunniest month of the year. When visiting, many people head out to English Bay to go swimming. 

If you love the outdoors, the perfect trip to Vancouver in the summer can include visiting some of the many hiking trails in the nearby mountains. This is one of the busiest times of the year, so it may be more expensive.

Annual events during this time:

• TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival
• Vancouver Pride Parade and Festival
• Vancouver Folk Music Festival
• Bard on the Beach

Spring: March - May 

The weather in Vancouver in March, April and May ranges from lows of about 39 degrees Fahrenheit to 58.3 degrees. While the city is still a little chilly as it transitions from the winter to the spring, this is the time of the year when the city really starts to bloom. During this time of year, you can go kayaking or simply spend your time in the city with the colorful foliage.

From March through October, thousands of whales migrate through the area, so you may be able to see some during your trip.

• Vancouver International Dance Festival (VIDF)
• Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival
• Vancouver Sun Run
• Vancouver International Children’s Festival

Fall: September - November

If you don’t want to deal with the large summer crowds in the summer, the fall is a great time to visit Vancouver. It’s far less busy, and the temperatures aren’t too cold. Throughout the city, the leaves turn gorgeous reds and oranges, and it’s a great time to visit Kitsilano Beach and Point Grey. This is also a wonderful time of year to take a stroll through Stanley Park.

• Vancouver Writers Fest
• Vancouver Film Festival
• International Fringe Festival

Winter: December - February

If you like the cold weather or winter sports, there’s plenty to do in Vancouver during the winter months. 

During this time of year, the surrounding mountains are covered in snow, and these are great places to visit if you love skiing or snowboarding. Vancouver isn’t too sunny during these months, and it can get quite a bit of rainfall. January is the wettest month, with an average of 19 days of rain.

• PuSh International Performing Arts Festival
• Polar Bear Swim
• Festival of Lights

The best time to visit Vancouver to get the lowest prices is between September and May. By September, hotel prices start to drop from the summer months, but the least expensive time is between December and February. 

The busiest time of the year for the city is during the summer months, so any month before or after will be far less expensive. While it’s a little chillier outside of the summer months, there are still plenty of things to see in Vancouver . 

The city has a lot of great parks, hiking trails and mountains that are gorgeous during the spring, fall and winter. There are also some great events throughout the year and various things to do within the city.

If you’re a foodie, Vancouver is a great city to visit because it has great food throughout the year as well as food and wine festivals. The Dine Out Vancouver Festival is one of the cities largest food festivals, and it takes place in late January. 

During the spring, you can attend the Vancouver International Wine Festival , which hosts over 100 wineries worldwide. Vancouver also has dozens of incredible restaurants with AAA Diamond designations and many craft breweries .

Traveling to Vancouver any time during the year is sure to be a great vacation, whether you’re traveling alone, with your partner or with your whole family. 

When booking your trip as an AAA member , you can enjoy your trip while also getting discounts and other benefits. AAA travel services can also help you with finding the best deals on flights and hotels and provide you with travel tips too.

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The Louisiana Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness announced earlier this month that the Hurricane Ida sheltering program is ending Tuesday.

Those living in travel trailers since Hurricane Ida struck will now have to find permanent housing by April 30.

The program was supposed to end last year ; however, the deadline was extended to allow residents still in need of shelter to find a long-term place to live.

The program only affects those using travel trailers and now the Federal Emergency Management Agency housing units.

Those still living in the travel trailers are urged to speak with their Disaster Case Manager before the program ends.

Those who have already moved out of trailers should call the Ida Sheltering Program at 844-268-0301.

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unwto tourism highlights 2022

Un tourism | bringing the world closer.

Unwto 2021: a year in review, 2021: tourism united, resilient and determined.

2021 has been a year of learning and adapting for tourism. It has proven that only by working together can the sector overcome challenges and embrace opportunities.

Gathering the global tourism community and developing concrete actions, UNWTO has led tourism’s response with the vision of not only restarting, but doing so in a more inclusive, innovative and sustainable way.

January - March

As global tourism faced up to a second year of unprecedented crisis , UNWTO began 2021 by counting the cost so far . At the same time, however, the emergence of vaccines brought hope . The Global Tourism Crisis Committee met to explore what this meant for safe travel and the restart of tourism, while the announcement of the winners of the UNWTO Global Start-up Competition recognized the role culture and creativity will play in tourism’s restart and recovery .  

April - June

Collaboration and innovation were the focusat the start of the second quarter. UNWTO partnered with IATA on a new Destination Tracker to give both tourists and destinations clear, impartial and trusted advice. And a new Start-up Competition was launched to find the best ideas for accelerating rural development through tourism. In May, the launch of the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO generated significant interest from Members in every global region. 

July - September

As destinations in Europe welcomed tourists back for the peak summer season, UNWTO highlighted the role of  digital solutions for the safe restart of the sector. But UNWTO also looked ahead, to a more sustainable future , working with key partners to  reduce plastic waste and consumption across every part of the sector. Together, we celebrated World Tourism Day around the theme of Tourism for Inclusive Growth, a message of solidarity and determination that was echoed on a global scale.

October - December

The final quarter of 2021 began with cautious optimism as UNWTO’s Barometer showed signs of improvement in tourist arrival numbers during the summer season in the northern hemisphere. A new partnership with Netflix will bring the message of tourism as a driver of opportunity to a massive global audience, while in November, UNWTO was tourism’s voice at COP26 and signatories to the landmark Glasgow Declaration keep growing. Finally, against the backdrop of the UNWTO General Assembly , the programme of work for the coming biennium was approved and 77% of Members voted to secure a second mandate for the Secretary-General from 2022-2025.

Growing and Moving Forward

UNWTO brings together political leaders from across the globe to deliver a strong, coordinated response. Governments, destinations, fellow UN agencies and international organizations met at key international events joining efforts to rethink tourism. Institutional coordination has proven crucial to find the solutions that build a smarter, greener and safer tourism.

Leaving Nobody Behind

The pledge to ‘ leave nobody behind ’ means nobody should miss out : Not now as we support the sector in the face of crisis, and not in the future as tourism starts again. Tourism is a proven driver of equality and opportunity. And that’s why we turn words into actions, delivering guidelines and action plans , to ensure everyone can enjoy the opportunities tourism brings.

A Shared Vision

Advancing the transformation of the tourism sector , partnerships are the only way forward. In 2021, UNWTO signed agreements with international organizations and the private sector to step our vision for the future of tourism: innovation , education , sustainability , green investment , rural development.

From business as usual to Covid-19

Looking to the future

• Regional Support Office for Asia and the Pacific (RSOAP)
• Member States in Asia and the Pacific
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM OBSERVATORIES (INSTO)

World Tourism Barometer: September 2022

UNWTO updates World Tourism Barometer and reports international tourism back to 60% of pre-pandemic levels from January to July 2022

Below are excerpts from the September 2022 release of the UNWTO Tourism Barometer :

• The steady recovery reflects strong pent-up demand for international travel, especially in the months of June and July which are part of the Northern Hemisphere summer season. The easing or lifting of travel restrictions in an increasing number of countries also contributed to boost results.
• International tourist arrivals almost tripled (+172%) in January-July 2022 compared to the same period of 2021. Numbers climbed from -64% in January 2022 (versus 2019) to -28% in July, the strongest month since the start of the pandemic.
• Asia and the Pacific (+165%) saw arrivals more than double in the first seven months of 2022, though they remained 86% below 2019 levels.
• The ongoing recovery can also be seen in outbound tourism spending from major source markets. Expenditure from France was at -12% in January-July 2022 compared to 2019 while spending from Germany stood at -14%. International tourism spending remained at -10% in Belgium, -23% in Italy and -26% in the United States.
• The uncertain economic environment seems to have reversed prospects for a return to pre-pandemic levels in the near term. 61% of UNWTO Panel of Experts now see a potential return of international arrivals to 2019 levels in 2024 or later while those indicating a return to pre-pandemic levels in 2023 has diminished (27%) compared to the May survey (48%).

Know more about the global tourism sector performance from January to July 2022 by checking the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer Volume 20, Issue 5 .

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TOURISM TRENDS 2022

11 Aug TOURISM TRENDS 2022

The situation for tourism remains rather unusual as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The crisis has marked a significant change for everyone, and above all for tourism, one of sectors hit hardest by the virus. 2020 was the year in which international tourism came to a near-complete standstill, and the only alternatives were domestic and local tourism.

2021 has seen some improvements, but only in a very subtle way as restrictions are still in place and many countries keep their borders fully or partially closed.

It is difficult to make an estimate for 2022 as it is not known how the pandemic will evolve. However, it is possible to talk about the new tourism trends that are likely to emerge over the coming year: – International travel with restrictions still maintained by both destinations and airlines in order to offer 100% security to the consumer.

– Reinforcement of COVID-19 testing; two years after the pandemic, COVID testing will still be in place as a preventive measure. – Conscious travel will be advocated. Travel to more distant destinations, but with prolonged durations of stay, as consumers look to enjoy as much of each place they visit as possible. – Green travel. Climate change is a problem that is present and growing. Consumers now are much more responsible and aware of the reality they live in on daily basis.

– A new trend is the “ed-ventures”. It is about combining education and holidays for the youngest members of the family. While adults may need to telework or attend meetings, their children can be doing workshops and learning in a playful way.

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Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO (Russia)

In 1993 "Elektrostal" was transformed into an open joint stock company. The factory occupies a leading position among the manufacturers of high quality steel. The plant is a producer of high-temperature nickel alloys in a wide variety. It has a unique set of metallurgical equipment: open induction and arc furnaces, furnace steel processing unit, vacuum induction, vacuum- arc furnaces and others. The factory has implemented and certified quality management system ISO 9000, received international certificates for all products. Elektrostal today is a major supplier in Russia starting blanks for the production of blades, discs and rolls for gas turbine engines. Among them are companies in the aerospace industry, defense plants, and energy complex, automotive, mechanical engineering and instrument-making plants.

Headquarters Ulitsa Zheleznodorozhnaya, 1 Elektrostal; Moscow Oblast; Postal Code: 144002

Contact Details: Purchase the Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO report to view the information.

Website: http://elsteel.ru

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40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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• Victor Mukhin

Victor M. Mukhin was born in 1946 in the town of Orsk, Russia. In 1970 he graduated the Technological Institute in Leningrad. Victor M. Mukhin was directed to work to the scientific-industrial organization "Neorganika" (Elektrostal, Moscow region) where he is working during 47 years, at present as the head of the laboratory of carbon sorbents.     Victor M. Mukhin defended a Ph. D. thesis and a doctoral thesis at the Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia (in 1979 and 1997 accordingly). Professor of Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia. Scientific interests: production, investigation and application of active carbons, technological and ecological carbon-adsorptive processes, environmental protection, production of ecologically clean food.   

Title : Active carbons as nanoporous materials for solving of environmental problems

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2022 has been the year to rethink tourism. Countries around the world turned UNWTO's vision for a greener, smarter and more inclusive sector into real action. 2020 showed the relevance of tourism for sustainable development. 2021 laid the foundations for the transformation of the sector. In 2022, we made it happen. 2022 began on a positive note.

According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourism saw a strong rebound in the first five months of 2022, with almost 250 million international arrivals recorded. This compares to 77 million arrivals from January to May 2021 and means that the sector has recovered almost half (46%) of pre-pandemic 2019 levels. UN ...

International Tourism Highlights, 2023 Edition - The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism (2020-2022) ISBN (printed version): 978-92-844-2497-9 ISBN (electronic version): 978-92-844-2498-6 DOI: 10.18111/9789284424986 Published by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Madrid, Spain First published: September 2023 Revised and updated: October 2023

Find out the latest updates from the UNWTO on tourism trends, challenges and opportunities in 2022 and beyond. Learn about the UNWTO's activities, projects and partnerships in various regions and topics, such as sustainable tourism, gastronomy, investment and education.

International Tourism and COVID-19. Export revenues from international tourism dropped 62% in 2020 and 59% in 2021, versus 2019 (real terms) and then rebounded in 2022, remaining 34% below pre-pandemic levels. The total loss in export revenues from tourism amounts to USD 2.6 trillion for that three-year period. Go to Dashboard.

According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourist arrivals almost tripled in January to July 2022 (+172%) compared to the same period of 2021. This means t he sector recovered almost 60% of pre-pandemic levels. The steady recovery reflects strong pent-up demand for international travel as well as the easing or lifting ...

The time is now to seize this opportunity to rethink how we do tourism. The official World Tourism Day celebration will be held in Bali, Indonesia, on 27 September, highlighting the shift towards tourism being recognized as a crucial pillar of development. Wonderful Indonesia - Witness the 42nd World Tourism Day 2022 in Bali, Indonesia!

In terms of tourist numbers, the year 2022 is expected to close with over 900 million international arrivals, despite growing challenges pointing to a softening of the recovery pace. International tourist arrivals: 2020, 2021 and Scenarios for 2022 (monthly change over 2019,%) Source UNWTO World Tourism Barometer: November 2022 Press Release.

January - March. As global tourism faced up to a second year of unprecedented crisis, UNWTO began 2021 by counting the cost so far.At the same time, however, the emergence of vaccines brought hope.The Global Tourism Crisis Committee met to explore what this meant for safe travel and the restart of tourism, while the announcement of the winners of the UNWTO Global Start-up Competition ...

Below are excerpts from the latest World Tourism Barometer May 2022 issue: According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, international tourism saw a 182% year-on-year increase in January-March 2022, with destinations worldwide welcoming an estimated 117 million international arrivals compared to 41 million in Q1 2021.

The UNWTO Elibrary is an online service from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) with a broad coverage of tourism and related subject areas. ... International Tourism Highlights, 2023 Edition - The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism (2020-2022) Revised and updated, October 2023. Released: December 2023.

The 7th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism will be held from Monday, December 12 to Thursday, December 15, 2022 (4 days).

The economic contribution of tourism (tourism direct gross domestic product) is estimated at US$1.9 trillion in 2021, above the US$1.6 trillion in 2020, but still well below the pre-pandemic value of US$ 3.5 trillion. The latest UNWTO Panel of Experts survey indicates that 61% of tourism professionals expect better performance in 2022 than in 2021.

Below are relevant points to the July 2022 World Tourism Barometer: Nearly 250 million international trips were recorded worldwide in the first five months of the year, more than three times the number of arrivals recorded in the same period of 2021 (77 million). Robust performance is also reflected in hotel occupancy rates.

2022-10-28. Below are excerpts from the September 2022 release of the UNWTO Tourism Barometer: The steady recovery reflects strong pent-up demand for international travel, especially in the months of June and July which are part of the Northern Hemisphere summer season. The easing or lifting of travel restrictions in an increasing number of ...

International tourism continues to outpace the global economy. 2. Driven by a relatively strong global economy, a growing middle class in emerging economies, technological advances, new business models, affordable travel costs and visa facilitation, international tourist arrivals grew 5% in 2018 to reach the 1.4 billion mark.

UNWTO Tourism Academy | TOURISM TRENDS 2022. The situation for tourism remains rather unusual as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The crisis has marked a significant change for everyone, and above all for tourism, one of sectors hit hardest by the virus. 2020 was the year in which international tourism came to a near-complete ...

International Tourism Highlights, 2023 Edition - The Impact of COVID-19 on Tourism (2020-2022) Revised and updated, October 2023 Published: December 2023 Pages: 32

International Tourism Highlights, 2020 Edition. Published: January 2021 Pages: 23. eISBN: 978-92-844-2245-6 | ISBN: 978-92-844-2244-9. Abstract: 2019 was another year of strong growth, though international arrivals grew below the exceptional rates seen in 2017 (+7%) and 2018 (+6%). Demand was somewhat weaker for travel to advanced economy ...

Main Activities: Iron and Steel Mills and Ferroalloy Manufacturing | Nonferrous Metal (except Copper and Aluminum) Rolling, Drawing, and Extruding. Full name: Metallurgicheskii Zavod Electrostal AO Profile Updated: February 22, 2024. Buy our report for this company USD 29.95 Most recent financial data: 2022 Available in: English & Russian ...

40 Facts About Elektrostal. Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to ...

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Biden-Harris Administration Announces Final Rule Requiring Automatic Refunds of Airline Tickets and Ancillary Service Fees

Rule makes it easy to get money back for cancelled or significantly changed flights, significantly delayed checked bags, and additional services not provided  

WASHINGTON – The Biden-Harris Administration today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a final rule that requires airlines to promptly provide passengers with automatic cash refunds when owed. The new rule makes it easy for passengers to obtain refunds when airlines cancel or significantly change their flights, significantly delay their checked bags, or fail to provide the extra services they purchased.

“Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them - without headaches or haggling,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg . “Our new rule sets a new standard to require airlines to promptly provide cash refunds to their passengers.”  

The final rule creates certainty for consumers by defining the specific circumstances in which airlines must provide refunds. Prior to this rule, airlines were permitted to set their own standards for what kind of flight changes warranted a refund. As a result, refund policies differed from airline to airline, which made it difficult for passengers to know or assert their refund rights. DOT also received complaints of some airlines revising and applying less consumer-friendly refund policies during spikes in flight cancellations and changes. 

Under the rule, passengers are entitled to a refund for:

• Canceled or significantly changed flights: Passengers will be entitled to a refund if their flight is canceled or significantly changed, and they do not accept alternative transportation or travel credits offered. For the first time, the rule defines “significant change.” Significant changes to a flight include departure or arrival times that are more than 3 hours domestically and 6 hours internationally; departures or arrivals from a different airport; increases in the number of connections; instances where passengers are downgraded to a lower class of service; or connections at different airports or flights on different planes that are less accessible or accommodating to a person with a disability.  
• Significantly delayed baggage return: Passengers who file a mishandled baggage report will be entitled to a refund of their checked bag fee if it is not delivered within 12 hours of their domestic flight arriving at the gate, or 15-30 hours of their international flight arriving at the gate, depending on the length of the flight.  
• Extra services not provided: Passengers will be entitled to a refund for the fee they paid for an extra service — such as Wi-Fi, seat selection, or inflight entertainment — if an airline fails to provide this service.

DOT’s final rule also makes it simple and straightforward for passengers to receive the money they are owed. Without this rule, consumers have to navigate a patchwork of cumbersome processes to request and receive a refund — searching through airline websites to figure out how make the request, filling out extra “digital paperwork,” or at times waiting for hours on the phone. In addition, passengers would receive a travel credit or voucher by default from some airlines instead of getting their money back, so they could not use their refund to rebook on another airline when their flight was changed or cancelled without navigating a cumbersome request process.  

The final rule improves the passenger experience by requiring refunds to be:

• Automatic: Airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops.   
• Prompt: Airlines and ticket agents must issue refunds within seven business days of refunds becoming due for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days for other payment methods.  
• Cash or original form of payment: Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in cash or whatever original payment method the individual used to make the purchase, such as credit card or airline miles. Airlines may not substitute vouchers, travel credits, or other forms of compensation unless the passenger affirmatively chooses to accept alternative compensation.    
• Full amount: Airlines and ticket agents must provide full refunds of the ticket purchase price, minus the value of any portion of transportation already used. The refunds must include all government-imposed taxes and fees and airline-imposed fees, regardless of whether the taxes or fees are refundable to airlines.

The final rule also requires airlines to provide prompt notifications to consumers affected by a cancelled or significantly changed flight of their right to a refund of the ticket and extra service fees, as well as any related policies.

In addition, in instances where consumers are restricted by a government or advised by a medical professional not to travel to, from, or within the United States due to a serious communicable disease, the final rule requires that airlines must provide travel credits or vouchers. Consumers may be required to provide documentary evidence to support their request. Travel vouchers or credits provided by airlines must be transferrable and valid for at least five years from the date of issuance.

The Department received a significant number of complaints against airlines and ticket agents for refusing to provide a refund or for delaying processing of refunds during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. At the height of the pandemic in 2020, refund complaints peaked at 87 percent of all air travel service complaints received by DOT. Refund problems continue to make up a substantial share of the complaints that DOT receives.

DOT’s Historic Record of Consumer Protection Under the Biden-Harris Administration

Under the Biden-Harris Administration and Secretary Buttigieg, DOT has advanced the largest expansion of airline passenger rights, issued the biggest fines against airlines for failing consumers, and returned more money to passengers in refunds and reimbursements than ever before in the Department’s history.

• Thanks to pressure from Secretary Buttigieg and DOT’s flightrights.gov dashboard, all 10 major U.S. airlines guarantee free rebooking and meals, and nine guarantee hotel accommodations when an airline issue causes a significant delay or cancellation. These are new commitments the airlines added to their customer service plans that DOT can legally ensure they adhere to and are displayed on flightrights.gov .  
• Since President Biden took office, DOT has helped return more than $3 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to airline passengers – including over $600 million to passengers affected by the Southwest Airlines holiday meltdown in 2022.   
• Under Secretary Buttigieg, DOT has issued over $164 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations. Between 1996 and 2020, DOT collectively issued less than $71 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations.  
• DOT recently launched a new partnership with a bipartisan group of state attorneys general to fast-track the review of consumer complaints, hold airlines accountable, and protect the rights of the traveling public.  
• In 2023, the flight cancellation rate in the U.S. was a record low at under 1.2% — the lowest rate of flight cancellations in over 10 years despite a record amount of air travel.  
• DOT is undertaking its first ever industry-wide review of airline privacy practices and its first review of airline loyalty programs.

In addition to finalizing the rules to require automatic refunds and protect against surprise fees, DOT is also pursuing rulemakings that would:

• Propose to ban family seating junk fees and guarantee that parents can sit with their children for no extra charge when they fly. Before President Biden and Secretary Buttigieg pressed airlines last year, no airline committed to guaranteeing fee-free family seating. Now, four airlines guarantee fee-free family seating, and the Department is working on its family seating junk fee ban proposal.  
• Propose to make passenger compensation and amenities mandatory so that travelers are taken care of when airlines cause flight delays or cancellations.   
• Expand the rights for passengers who use wheelchairs and ensure that they can travel safely and with dignity . The comment period on this proposed rule closes on May 13, 2024.

The final rule on refunds can be found at https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/latest-news and at regulations.gov , docket number DOT-OST-2022-0089. There are different implementation periods in this final rule ranging from six months for airlines to provide automatic refunds when owed to 12 months for airlines to provide transferable travel vouchers or credits when consumers are unable to travel for reasons related to a serious communicable disease. 

Information about airline passenger rights, as well as DOT’s rules, guidance and orders, can be found at   https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer .

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Laredo Sector Border Patrol recognizes April’s Youth of the Month

LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol announces the honorees of the Youth of the Month program.  

The program is designed to honor and incentivize academic excellence throughout Laredo.

On April 30, Laredo Sector Border Patrol and community program partners honored the 11 seniors selected from Laredo area high schools with the distinguished Laredo Sector Border Patrol Youth of the Month award.

Laredo Sector Border Patrol thanks guest speaker, Patrol-Agent-In-Charge Samuel Quintanilla, who spoke about the significance of the Youth of the Month award and the academic dedication necessary to win such a highly sought scholastic award.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the comprehensive management, control, and protection of our nation’s borders, combining customs, immigration, border security, and agricultural protection at and between official ports of entry.

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Millions could lose internet access in California if this program expires

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Four years ago, Claudia Aleman and her family had only one way to get online — through their cellphones. Without internet service on a computer, her youngest daughter couldn’t get homework assignments in on time, her parents couldn’t keep up with online doctor visits, and the English classes she wanted to sign up for were out of reach.

Then came a game-changer: The federal government started offering a subsidy that covered $30 of the family’s $80 monthly internet bill.

But while opening mail at her home in South Gate two months ago, Aleman came across a letter from the Federal Communications Commission announcing that the Affordable Connectivity Program they had come to rely on would end in May unless Congress approved more funding.

“My husband is the only one who works, and everything is so expensive right now,” Aleman said. “Sometimes we don’t have $30 to spare.”

“The program made a significant difference in our lives,” she added. “Without it, life is going to be difficult, and I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels this way.”

The program, which was created after the pandemic forced many Americans to turn to the internet to connect with work and school, has 23 million enrollees nationwide — 1 in 6 U.S. households — including nearly 3 million in California.

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Since 2021, it has provided a $30 monthly subsidy for low-income households and $75 for those on tribal lands. But the $14.2 billion funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has run out.

April was the last month of full program benefits, but households could receive a partial discount in May.

In a letter to Congress this month, FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel warned that not funding the program would have widespread impact, especially for senior citizens, veterans, schoolchildren and residents of rural and tribal communities.

“Households across the country are now facing hard choices about what expenses they have to cut, including food and gas, to maintain their broadband access, with some households doubtful they can afford to keep their broadband service at all,” she wrote.

Internet service providers have their own programs for low-income households. People can enter their address on the FCC’s broadband map to find providers in their area. The California Public Utilities Commission also provides a list of providers with low-cost internet plans.

But finding a cheaper alternative can be difficult. Rural households sometimes have just one provider, and families who can’t afford it have little recourse.

Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) is among 228 bipartisan co-sponsors of the Affordable Connectivity Program Extension Act of 2024 , which would provide an additional $7 billion to keep the program afloat for another year. Among the co-sponsors are 22 Republicans, including Rep. Young Kim (R-Anaheim Hills).

“You’ve got to have your head in the sand to not understand the value of what this is doing to enhance our economy, enhance the skills and opportunities for so many Americans,” Carbajal said. Allowing the program to expire, he said, “will undo the progress we’ve made in closing the digital divide. It would take us back to the dark ages.”

But the bill hasn’t been brought for a standalone floor vote in the GOP-led House amid criticism from some Republicans who say the program subsidizes households that already had internet service. They also pointed to findings from the FCC’s internal watchdog last year that providers failed to comply with the program’s rules and improperly claimed funds.

In a statement last year, Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) said the program was “subject to massive waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars.”

In an FCC survey of 5,300 households conducted in December, more than two-thirds of respondents said they had inconsistent or no internet before joining the federal program, the majority citing affordability. About one-third of respondents said they had both mobile and home internet service.

In October, the Biden administration sent Congress a supplemental request for $6 billion to keep the program running, but it didn’t pass.

Letting the program lapse, even if it could be restarted later, would require additional spending on outreach and re-enrollment, Carbajal said. He also worries that people who benefit from it will feel a sense of whiplash and lose trust in the federal government.

More Californians are gaining broadband internet access. But Black and Latino households still lag

Eighty-seven percent of white households had access to high-speed internet, compared with 83% of Black households and 80% of Latino ones, according to a survey.

June 21, 2022

California recently dedicated $70 million in federal funding toward affordable internet service, devices and training. Carbajal said he’s glad to see his state acting, but it’s not enough.

“We can’t look at it from a parochial standpoint,” he said. “I’m not just looking out for the Central Coast and my state — I’m looking out for the entire nation.”

Still, Carbajal said he’s optimistic something will take hold before May 1. Similar circumstances have played out favorably at the last minute, he said.

In Los Angeles, the federal program has played an important role in the county’s effort to close the digital divide, which was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through local promotion, enrollment in Los Angeles grew to nearly 1 million households.

County officials partnered with the nonprofit EveryoneOn to get the word out. Chief Executive Norma Fernandez worries families will be confused when they see their internet bill go up and won’t understand why the program ended.

“We tried so hard and provided tons of hands-on support to get people connected and then we’re going to pull it away from them,” she said. “It’s going to cause hopelessness.”

For Aleman’s family, the pandemic changed everything. When schools first shut down, they relied on a Los Angeles County Unified School District program that offered free internet to eligible students.

But the service was unreliable — access would frequently drop or freeze up. So Aleman started leaving her daughter Miranda, now 11, with her sister and neighbors who had reliable internet access so that she could attend online classes and do her homework.

“I think my daughter lost an entire school year,” she said.

Their need for internet access at home hasn’t changed since schools reopened. Most of Miranda’s assignments are still online.

Life improved almost immediately after they enrolled in the federal subsidy program in 2022 and got internet access through AT&T. Miranda started turning in assignments on time. Aleman’s older daughters, 17 and 21, could do their schoolwork at home instead of at the library or relatives’ homes.

It also made a difference for her parents. Her father, who is diabetic, takes nutrition courses online, and her mother, who is asthmatic, needs regular video checkups with her doctor. And Aleman could finally stay in regular contact with family in Mexico.

Since learning that the program would end, Aleman said she has been applying for jobs to help her husband cover bills. In May, her husband will pay the internet bill, possibly with credit cards.

Beyond that, she said, “there’s always the library.”

More to Read

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College financial aid extension in the works for California students hurt by FAFSA mess

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Ruben Vives is a general assignment reporter for the Los Angeles Times. A native of Guatemala, he got his start in journalism by writing for The Times’ Homicide Report in 2007. He helped uncover the financial corruption in the city of Bell that led to criminal charges against eight city officials. The 2010 investigative series won the Pulitzer Prize for public service and other prestigious awards.

Andrea Castillo covers immigration. Before joining the Los Angeles Times, she covered immigrant, ethnic and LGBTQ+ communities for the Fresno Bee. She got her start at the Oregonian in Portland. A native of Seattle, she’s been making her way down the West Coast since her graduation from Washington State University.

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