humanitarian trip to africa

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Humanitarian Trips: What They Are & How/Why You Should Take One

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Make a difference in the lives of others

Learn the 411 on humanitarian trips for all ages—youth, college students, teens, high school students, the whole family, and more.

For some folks living for themselves is just enough. And then there are those of us who know life is much bigger than our little bubbles. We read about challenges oceans away and feel compelled to do something—to act. If these feelings sound familiar, then a humanitarian trip is the move you need to make. 

So what are volunteer / humanitarian trips all about? They’re a powerful way to fuse travel and volunteer work to help improve a challenging socioeconomic situation abroad. From natural disaster relief to molding the future leaders of tomorrow, there are plenty of fulfilling ways to get involved with humanitarian work. As you finalize your decision to go on a humanitarian trip, you’ll want to think about your volunteering interests and what culture you’d like to explore. The organization you decide to volunteer with also deserves mucho consideration! 

Feeling a little overwhelmed? Don’t worry. We’re breaking everything you need to know about humanitarian trips down just below.

FAQs on humanitarian trips

Who can take them.

The awesome thing about humanitarian trips is that just about anyone can take one. Humanitarian trips for youth, humanitarian trips for high school students ...you’ll find plenty of tailor made trips for people of all ages and backgrounds. There are humanitarian trips for teens looking for a truly meaningful way to complete community service (because stacking books in the library is a big yawn). Humanitarian trips for college students can provide young adults with a way to gain experience in a field while giving back to a worthy cause. 

These projects give students a grassroots view of the ins and outs of humanitarian crises which is valuable in just about every industry. Or maybe you’re sprung from an entire family of do-gooders. There are even family humanitarian trips that you, mom, dad and big sis can sign up for and complete together. As a team, family humanitarian trips practically guarantee you’ll make double or quadruple the impact! One more thing! Don’t get caught up thinking you need to fit the stereotypical aid worker profile. When it comes to volunteering abroad, everyone has something to offer.

Medical humanitarian trips could mean more clean drinking water for more people.

Where can you go?

Humanitarian trips are all over the globe. Looking to teach children in Latin America? Start researching humanitarian trips to Cuba. Are you a teen whose drawn to Brazilian culture? Look into humanitarian trips for teens in South America. Just about any place you can think of will have a space for you and a need to fill.  

[ Browse Dozens of Volunteer Abroad Destinations ]

South Africa . Just twenty-five years ago South Africa was emerging from the throngs of apartheid. So it’s no wonder the country is still reeling from the effects of its colonial past. South Africa faces a very wide income inequality gap as well as challenges in poverty, crime, women and children’s rights, HIV, drug addiction, high unemployment, and more. And yet despite those ills, incredibly diverse and beautiful South African cultures thrive, complete with a rich history. It’s why South Africa is one of the most popular places for humanitarian trips to Africa. Volunteers will find opportunities to lend assistance across many sectors all over the country. To make the experience even more special, visit a center like Joburg’s apartheid museum for a deeper understanding of Mzanzi’s historical landscape.

Uganda . Yearning for even more exciting humanitarian trips to Africa? In Uganda, you can help out with humanitarian work during the day and catch a sight of the big five after hours. On humanitarian trips in Uganda, volunteers could be stationed in the capital city of Kampala or in the rural communities, where most of the country’s population lives. Humanitarian projects exist in education, health awareness, animal conservation and more. The needs in Uganda are many, your personal rewards you’ll on a humanitarian trip in Uganda will likely be even more. Before you leave, squeeze in a visit to see the famed mountain gorillas. Or, for a more cultural experience, stop by the Igongo Cultural Centre for a walk through south western Ugandan history!  

Thailand . It’s easy to chalk Thailand up to gorgeous beaches and delicious foods. However, beyond the tourist attractions the country is facing real socio economic problems. Issues like poverty, high youth unemployment, and in some pockets, political violence, means there’s plenty of humanitarian work to be done. Thai humanitarian projects span from refugee assistance to conservationism and teaching English. And humanitarian trip programs exist all over the country. So whether you’re volunteering in a tropical rainforest or bustling Bangkok, humanitarian trips in Thailand are some of the best opportunities to give back.

India . In a country exploding with over a billion people, humanitarian work volunteers in India will have no trouble finding work to do. Each corner of India offers a vast array of service projects and cultural experiences. While Delhi is a popular location for humanitarian volunteers, projects exist all around the country. Common humanitarian work fields available in include teaching, dentistry or general medical, community development, and women’s empowerment volunteering. Humanitarian trips for youth development are also available.

Unwrapping privilege while giving back and having an adventure is a tall order that’s worth every step of the journey.

Is it responsible tourism?

Now, you may have noticed that we’ve highlighted a lot of ways humanitarian trips can benefit volunteers. Well, because of that there has been debate about the effectiveness of humanitarian trips . For starters, shorter term volunteer trips can have little impact because realistically, two weeks in a country can only achieve but so much. A constant rotation of short term volunteers can even disrupt the flow of development projects in-country. Now pair that with the fact that volunteers generally have to pay humanitarian work organizations to participate. Humanitarian trips can quickly start looking like they’re more about the volunteer’s travel experience than the actual impact. The truth is, it's totally fine for volunteers to get something out of their experience, as long as reciprocity is weaved into the project.

[ Find Out Which Volunteer Projects Have the Most Need This Year ]

Other critics say “voluntourism” can instill a sort of paternalistic condescension. Translation: foreigners thinking they know more about how to fix problems than locals do. This is why applying to organizations with cultural sensitivity training ingrained is always a win.

While at first glance, many humanitarian trip organizations may sound like they’re doing wonderful things for needy communities abroad, its crucial for volunteers to vet organizations properly. Projects without a proven track record of results in-country or that don’t hire local staff are red flags. So when you’re applying to humanitarian work programs, keep an eye out for the most transparent and effective organizations. A good program can ensure that even a short term humanitarian trip has sustainable results. You can vet programs by reading program reviews and by looking for actual long term impact.

Are humanitarian trips expensive?

Family humanitarian trips are a great way to expose your youngins’ to more cultures around the world.

The costs of humanitarian trips depends on several factors: where you’re heading, how long you’re planning to stay, and even the type of volunteer program you apply to. Countries with lower costs of living tend to have lower humanitarian work program fees. For example, with Vina Volunteer you could do agricultural development work in Vietnam for two weeks for less than $600 (not including roundtrip airfare but this is still a steal!)! Or, you could volunteer with children in Costa Rica for the same amount of time with GVI for $2245 per week (flights not included here either). 

Whatever you do, don’t let higher price tags get you down. Many humanitarian volunteers find crafty ways to raise the money. Fundraising is one popular option in which you explain your humanitarian goals to friends, family, and professional contacts and ask them to donate to your travel plans. You can also get a part-time and start saving up or apply to volunteer abroad scholarships (yes, they do exist!). 

How safe are humanitarian trips?

This depends on where you’re going and what you’re up for. Now’s the time to get clear about how deep into a challenging situation you’re comfortable going. If you’re dead set on volunteering in a warzone (we don’t recommended humanitarian trips for high school students in these spots!), then honestly, it’s not going to be the safest environment. On the other end, even the world’s most safe countries have pockets of very real poverty. Expectation management is also important here. Why? 

[ More Safety Tips for Volunteering Abroad ]

Because in general, the places in the world that need the most help aren’t in the most comfortable or safe communities. No matter where you’re going, sign up with a humanitarian work organization with a structured safety and emergency plan. Simple protocol and heeding the advice of program staff is what keeps the majority of humanitarian volunteers safe abroad .  

5 awesome short term volunteer trips abroad

1. International Volunteer HQ

These guys have over programs in over 40 countries around the world for volunteers from a wide range of professional and academic backgrounds. Looking to volunteer in construction and renovation? Or what about special needs center or old age home abroad? Whatever your humanitarian interests, with your personal GVI volunteer travel expert, you be fully supported throughout your application period and on the ground as a volunteer. 

• Where? 40 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, Central America, South America, the Caribbean and Pacific.
• More info: Read International Volunteer HQ reviews  

2. Projects Abroad

Ready to join a legion of over 10,000 volunteers and 425 humanitarian work programs? With Projects Abroad, you’ll be trained by a combo of in-country staff and seasoned former volunteers. The organization’s values include “changing individuals and communities”, “transforming through travel”, and “building meaningful connections”. Good stuff! And, if you’re looking for flexible options, projects abroad has programs for volunteers for tweens to the over 50 crowd, along with team trips options designed to help you tackle a goal paired with friends or relatives.

• Where? 25 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and The Caribbean, and the South Pacific.
• More info: Read Projects Abroad reviews

3. Maximo Nivel

If you have a passion for Latin American culture and want to make a difference in the lives of others, consider Maximo Nivel. They specialize in programs in the region, offering humanitarian trips in Peru, Costa Rica, and Guatemala (keep researching if you’re looking for those ever so popular humanitarian trips to Cuba packages!). Volunteers can work with children, teach English, help out in health centers or construction sites and more. Aside from their self-described affordable yet transparent programs, you’ll have the opportunity to learn Spanish during your project too. Want to receive college credit? Maximo’s School of Record will allow you to earn. 

• Where? Peru, Costa Rica, and Guatemala
• More info: Read Maximo Nivel reviews

4. Global Dental Relief

In some parts of the world, even dental care is not a guarantee. However, on a humanitarian trip with Global Dental Relief, you can bring much needed dental care to children in Nepal or brighten the smiles of kids in Cambodia. This program offers fantastic humanitarian trips for college students which equal a priceless experience for anyone studying dentistry. During your free time, you'll have sightseeing opportunities to explore spots like Katmandu or the Maasai Mara. While volunteers with skills and passion for dental outreach are preferred for dental outreach work, the program has space for non-dental volunteers to help out too.

• Where? Guatemala, India, Kenya, Nepal, Cambodia
• More info: Read Global Dental Relief reviews

5. Cross-Cultural Solutions

This program has a quarter century of experience in childhood development. Even better? A key aspect of their humanitarian trips is that they’re in partnership with in-country locals. They have volunteers work in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Back in 2003, CCS was even granted consultative status by the UN. Basically, CCS has the sustainable volunteering game on lock! They offer volunteer programs around the world in everything from internships, gap year programs, and high school and group humanitarian trips.

• Where? Greece, Costa Rica, Ghana, Guatemala, Morocco, Peru, and Thailand.
• More info: Read CCS Reviews

Take your first humanitarian trip!

Now’s your time to give back.

Picked a program and a locale? Here’s a few things you can do before departure to help ensure your humanitarian trip will be as impactful as possible. Read in-country newspapers and blogs. This will give you even more of a feel for the socio economic challenges in the country. You’ll gain insight that will undoubtedly aid in your effectiveness on the ground. Another tip? Start learning the local language ! You won’t have to be fluent, but the more you know the better you’ll connect with the people you’re there to help.

Alright, are you ready to embark on this epic journey? Humanitarian trips are often filled with emotional extremes. Some days you’ll feel like a proud papa when you look at the work you’ve contributed. Other days, you may feel like your project is hopeless. Embrace the rollercoaster but lean toward to the positivity. Once you’re abroad, you’ll probably start to redefine your definition of success and learn to appreciate the smaller wins. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and apply to humanitarian trips overseas now!

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Join a volunteer project in Africa and support local communities

Volunteer in Africa and focus on long-term, sustainable development in African countries. Through voluntary work in Africa, you’ll gain a deeper insight into people’s lives and the challenges they face. You’ll also be immersed in a new culture, contributing to your own education and personal growth.

On our volunteer opportunities in Africa, you can do things like :

• Volunteer with animals in Africa and work with wildlife conservation experts to protect endangered species like elephants, giraffes, and lions.
• Volunteer with children in Africa and help caregivers with Early Childhood Development.
• Teach in Africa and support education by working with teachers in local schools.
• Build a school in Africa and ensure that disadvantaged children have access to basic education.

No matter where you go in Africa, our Project Experts can help you find the volunteer project or internship that suits you. We can also help you plan the ultimate gap year in Africa!

With our volunteer programs in Africa, we take care of the details, so you can have a hassle-free experience . Our local staff are available to help you 24/7. This means you can focus all your energy on making a real impact in the community where you’re working.

Why volunteer in Africa?

Africa is one of the most popular destinations for volunteers abroad, and for good reason. In the countries where we work, communities face numerous challenges and need extra support. As a volunteer, you’ll provide resources, offer your skills, and work directly with local people towards long-term goals.

Volunteers in Africa do things like :

• Treat wounds for leprosy patients and test for malaria in Ghana
• Build classrooms in Maasai villages in Tanzania
• Protect endangered species of giraffe in Kenya

And so much more!

These are Africa-specific issues that need people like you to offer your time for long-term solutions. At the same time, you get to explore a unique culture in some of the world’s most spectacular locations.

How to become a volunteer in Africa

Want to know more about how to volunteer in Africa? The good news is that we make it incredibly accessible!

Just follow these steps to make your Africa volunteer travel dreams into a reality :

• Think about the work you want to do, whether that’s helping children, protecting endangered wildlife, or building houses. If you have your heart set on a particular country in Africa, then choose your favorite project in that destination.
• Reach out to our Project Experts, who can provide more information. They'll help you make the right choice for your interests and goals.
• Decide how much time you have to travel to Africa, how flexible your dates are, and if you’d rather travel alone or as a group. This will determine what kind of trip is right for you. You could join a  Flexi Trip , a Team Trip, or a High School Special for students aged 15-18.
• Once you know which African country to visit, what work to do, and how long to travel for, simply  fill in the application form  and book your place!

How old do I have to be to volunteer in Africa?

All our volunteer opportunities in Africa are open to people aged 16 and over. To join a project, all you need to do is check you meet the requirements and apply.

Most of our volunteer abroad projects have minimum requirements which are stated clearly on the project page.

We also offer volunteer programes in Africa for high school students aged 15-18. Our High School Specials give teenagers the support and care they need as young travelers.

And there’s no upper age limit! We believe you’re never too old to do volunteer work in Africa. In fact, your experience and skills are much needed to support development in African countries.

Is volunteering in Africa ethical?

Rest assured you’ll have an ethical experience with us in Africa. We hold our volunteers to a high standard, especially when working with children, animals, or in a medical setting.

As champions of  responsible volunteer travel , we follow an eight-point checklist for all projects, including our service trips to Africa. This guarantees an ethical travel experience for all involved.

Learn more about our policies and approach to ethical volunteering .

Do we offer short-term volunteer opportunities in Africa?

Looking to do a one-week volunteer program in Africa? We encourage you to maximize your impact by volunteering in Africa for longer. But, if you prefer, you can volunteer in Africa for a week.

Read our blog that explains how we approach short-term volunteering .

Can I volunteer in Africa for free?

We want you to have an experience abroad that is safe and impactful. We can’t achieve our  long-term sustainable development goals without adequate funding.

That's why we charge a fee for our volunteer projects in Africa. This fee covers food, accommodation, and much more. The money you pay to volunteer abroad ensures you have a safe and hassle-free trip. This gives you time to focus on making a positive transformation.

Read more about why you can’t volunteer abroad for free .

People often ask “How much does it cost to volunteer in Africa?”. The answer depends on where you go, what you do, and how long you volunteer for. But it’s probably not as much as you think.

Especially when you consider that our program fees include :

• Three meals a day
• Accommodation
• Transportation to and from your placement

Plus, if you’re looking for low-cost volunteering in Africa, the longer you stay, the lower the cost per week. 

You can also take advantage of our flexible payment plans . We understand that paying in one go isn’t always possible. That's why we just ask for an initial deposit. Then, you can pay as much or as little as you like in a series of small installments.

We’re completely flexible, but the full fee does need to be paid in full before you leave for your project.

We also offer advice and support for volunteer fundraising , so you can get the funds for the adventure of a lifetime! Our staff and alumni are experts in raising funds. We’ll ensure that you’re able to secure the required amount.

Is it safe to volunteer in Africa?

Many people ask if it’s safe to volunteer in Africa. When you volunteer with us, this is something you can stop worrying about. We’ll place you in African countries that are politically stable and safe to visit. Our local staff constantly keep a close eye on changing situations.

We only work in the safest countries in Africa to volunteer. This means that you can really get stuck into making a positive change in the local community. As always when traveling abroad, volunteers in Africa should stay alert.

Local staff will be on hand to offer tips and advice on keeping yourself and your belongings safe. They’re contactable 24/7.

All our Africa placements are fully researched, safety audited, and risk assessed in accordance with the British Standard BS8848 for the Adventure Travel Sector.

Find out more about safety and backup .

Where to Volunteer in Africa

Our volunteer opportunities in Africa include the following countries :

Volunteer in Botswana

Live in the heart of the African bush and help protect endangered wildlife and biodiversity

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Support local communities while experiencing life in this colourful West African country

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Give back to disadvantaged communities while surrounded by the African savannah

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Live and work in the southern-most point of Africa and support disadvantaged communities

Volunteer Opportunities in Tanzania

Support community development in the shadow of majestic Mount Kilimanjaro

Africa is an incredibly diverse continent, with awe-inspiring natural wonders and a rich cultural heritage. We do volunteer work in several African countries and can help you find the best volunteer program in Africa for you.

In each African country we work in, we’ve identified the needs of the local communities. Our volunteer placements in Africa all work toward supporting sustainable development and helping people overcome these challenges.

So, what are you waiting for? Join us as a volunteer in Africa today, and become part of something bigger!

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An expedition to Kenya with 100 Humanitarians International promises an unforgettable journey filled with service, culture, and an epic safari. You will engage in life-changing service projects, aiding local communities through sustainable food, clean water, education, and health. You will immerse yourself in Kenyan culture, learning Swahili phrases, sampling diverse cuisines, and participating in vibrant dances. Visiting traditional Maasai villages offers a glimpse into age-old customs. Amid this transformative experience, you will embark on an epic safari, exploring Kenya's breathtaking national park, the Maasai Mara. In this untamed landscapes, you encounter the "Big Five" and countless other species, creating memories that blend service, culture, and the wonders of the wild.

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Sample Itinerary (Each Trip is Unique!)

Day 1 : Leave the US

Depending on where you are flying from, you will arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure. After checking in, meet the team and get to know each other! You have a long flight ahead, so make sure you have water and snacks if you need them. Plenty of movies on board to watch, and there is always napping.

Layover meals not included.

Day 2: Arrive in Nairobi at Night

Phew! That was a looong flight, right? After we are picked up at the airport by our expedition team, you will be transported to our hotel, where after a short debriefing, you will settle in for the night. Bring earplugs, or download a white noise app for your phone to drown out the animal noises from the nearby Nairobi National Park!

We arrive very late to the hotel, so typically we eat snacks if we are hungry.

Day 3 : Travel Day

Make sure you have access to snacks, because today we are heading out of Nairobi to our first location. We will stop and take team pictures and enjoy the gorgeous views of the Escarpment, before descending down into the Great Rift Valley. We'll get checked in and enjoy a fabulous meal as we get settled into Kokoo's Guest House.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner (we snack along the way for lunch)

Day 4 : Meet the Maasai/The Cultural Experience

One of the most beautiful aspects of our trips is cultural immersion, and there is no better way to get to know the Maasai than to visit their church services. Get ready to sing and dance, as the Maasai take the lead. Then, learn about how families live and work as we visit a traditional Maasai village. You will enter as visitors, and leave as family. This is the first place you can buy souvenirs for your people left at home.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 : The Garden Tower Project/Safari

Every team has the opportunity to build garden towers with families, so grab your gardening gloves and get to work! Our Community Directors are there to help you, as well as interpret the challenging Maasai language. These garden towers can feed a family of 5 up to 5 meals a week, so the more families we can help, the better. After lunch, jump in the jeep, because you are going on safari! Bring your cameras, water bottles, wipes, and snacks!

Day 6 : The Garden Tower Project/Water Project

Today is a busy day, as we work with more families building garden towers, and we also work on a water project. This could include delivering water tanks to families to capture rainwater, or it could include helping to preserve a spring to bring clean water closer to families. Make sure you take breaks when you need to, and get to know the people you are serving.

Day 7: Water Projects

The Water Projects continue today, so we hope you slept well. One of the biggest challenges on the Maasai Mara is lack of water, for both the people and their livestock. Maasai families survive by breeding and selling cows and goats, so having the access to water is critical for their survival. Every drop is precious!

Day 8: Full Day Game Drive

Today is the dream! You get to wake up before the sun, and get in the jeep for an all day game drive. The goal is always to see the Big Five on an expedition. Will you be lucky enough to see the rhino? Will the stealthy leopard show itself? Anything goes, and every safari is totally different. And tonight back at Kokoo's Guest House, you are in for a real treat.

Day 9: Drive to Nairobi for Outbound Flight

Say goodbye to our beautiful friends on the Maasai Mara, because we are on to our next adventure with a different tribe - the Kalenjin. We will be heading up the road a bit to Bomet County, where our teams have built thousands of garden towers with families. You will experience a new culture before heading back to Nairobi for your flight home.

Day 10: Arrive Home

We are so grateful that you joined us on our Kenyan adventure! We hope that your experience was incredible, and that you will join us again in the future.

$4250 + Flights, Travel Insurance, and eTA (previously VISA)

We provide tips to hotel staff in Nairobi.

You are responsible for tips for our drivers, the chef, and housekeeping. We recommend tipping in dollars for a better exchange rate.

As with any service, tipping is at your discretion.

Payment Schedule:

Because we are not a travel agency, we prefer each trip participant to pay in full use a credit card if you need to make payments. If you need to do a two payment plan, you can make arrangements with our accounting department.

Cancellation Policy:

If you cancel: The trip is non-refundable; we require trip insurance. Once funds are sent to Kenya, it's not possible to get them sent back to the U.S.

No vaccines are required to enter Kenya from the United States.

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November 2024

Expedition Testimonials

I went with 100 Humanitarians to Kenya this last June. What is being done there through this organization is incredible. Families are able to thrive due to sustainable food resources, education in how to garden and being provided easier access to water. This trip was a life changing experience and I will absolutely be going back in the future. There is a true love that has been built between Kenya and all that volunteer through 100H.

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They are committed to the work they are doing in Kenya. I saw first hand the fruits of their labor. Their philosophy to help the Kenya people to help themselves is about long term sustainability. I am highly recommending my friends and colleagues to get involved with 100 Humanitarians.

Awesome group with amazing in-country leadership. We left knowing that our efforts and funds were in good hands and would help more people than we could ever do on our own. Their goal of teaching one so that they can teach others is having exponential results.

Amazing organization!

Best I have ever been involved with!

Our 16 year old daughter went to Kenya with Heidi and 100 humanitarians. She still talks about it and the life changing impact is it had on her. We love the mission and the passion with 100 humanitarian. We will be sending her again!

-Christie N.

100 humanitarians does amazing work! I have been fortunate enough to go to Kenya twice and help with sustainable projects. I absolutely love this organization!

I have been extremely blessed to have 100 Humanitarians introduced to me. I went on the March 2019 trip and was blown away at the service opportunities 100 H is providing to the good people of Kenya. I will continue to seek to participate and support 100 H in any way I can and look forward to the opportunity to return to Kenya and serve my friends and family again.

I have been to Kenya twice with 100 Humanitarians. This last trip I took my 11 year old daughter with me. I will never be able to properly explain how being involved in these projects have help my life and the life of my family. I can only hope that what I have contributed has helped an ounce of what I have received. My heart will never be there same. I have also made life long friends and connections...which in my opinion is the most important part of Humanitarian work...the people!!!

I've been to Kenya 8 times now and I can't wait to go back! From teaching skills to building garden towers and training centers together to make and impact, 100 Humanitarians has it right. I have been changed for the better from my experiences. Kenya has my heart, the people are amazing and welcoming. I've learned so much from them.

If you have the chance, come be part of this wonderful organization.

-Marissa W.

I've fallen in love with the work we do in Kenya. On both trips of which I've been a part, I've witnessed the pure love of spirit touching spirit. When we donated a cow to one lady, the entire village came out to greet us with a song of thanks that we could hear a quarter mile away. You can't imagine what an incredibly life-altering experience that is! On the other trip, we built fences for garden areas to keep out livestock (think chickens and goats) and let the plants thrive. And thrive they did!

Oh yes ... and safari. Never a bad thing. :)

I took my family to work with this incredible organization just a couple weeks ago. Their connection with the community, their ability to have everyone actively participate, the culture.... everything was incredible. I worked hard, saw incredible sights, cried and built new friendships. My daughter's (ages 8 and almost 10) were inspired and loved the experience as much as I did. We plan on volunteering next year as well.

I was told that I would go to Kenya to serve the people there but would soon discover that Kenya would serve me and my 13 year old son.

That was exactly what happened. I laughed, cried, and loved the Kenyan people. We helped them to build garden boxes, build fences and assisted them in creating sustainable resources that would help them year after year.

I love the fact that this organization doesn't simply give a hand out but gives a hand up instead. Helping the Kenyan people feel empowered to help themselves fosters a sense of independence and success- which is what the people want.

These beautiful people love with their whole heart. They want to improve their situations and allow future generations a better life.

Taking my two boys to Kenya was one of the best things I've ever done. When the thought first popped in my mind, I brushed it aside, thinking there was no way. We had too much going on, we couldn't afford it, it would be better to wait. However, for some reason I kept feeling this pull and I finally decided I knew I had to do it. I didn't know why or how, but I knew I had to. I followed my intuition and the universe took care of the rest.

There are no words to describe and do it justice. The land, the people, the service, the gratitude, and the love is greater than anything I've ever experienced. It opens your heart, healing you and all those around you. The only way to change our lives, is to change our heart. My boys were able to experience this early enough in their lives that they will forever be changed because of it. In a lot of ways we were stagnant before we left, but we all came home ready to accomplish whatever the universe brings our way. I don't know when or how, but I know I will be going back to Kenya again.

My daughters and I just returned from our expedition with 100 Humanitarians a week ago and will be forever changed from the experience. We're already talking about when we can go back!

What I love about this organization is that they truly create self reliance within the communities they work with. It really is about giving them a "hand up" rather than just a hand out. I can't wait to see the continued progress in upcoming expeditions.

I also can't say enough how much we appreciated their team IN Kenya. Christine, Anita, Moses, David, John, and David...all of whom made the experience even much more special as they shared personal stories, taught us about their culture and saw to our safety and comfort. ❤

Going to Kenya with 100 Humanitarians International was a life changing trip. The dedication of 100 H in helping families become self-reliant is unmatched. What I love about their vision is the idea of helping the people of Kenya learn skills to better their lives while not trying to change their cultural beliefs or values and not coming in to "save the day" with a handout. Teaching families how to vertically garden in order to have more food stability, providing better and cleaner water sources, educating youth about menstruation and providing reusable products is all part of what 100 Humanitarians has done. 100 H has changed lives by teaching skills that can be passed from person to person and generation to generation. They are making a difference and it shows. If I could take everyone I know on a trip to Kenya with 100 Humanitarians, I would. What an amazing nonprofit that is changing lives!

For now, my days in Kenya are over, but my heart will always be there. I worked hard and gave my strength and my heart. However, I left Kenya with more than I gave. The gifts given me can not be measured in dollars and cents but rather the immeasurable worth of life's purpose. The greatest lesson is that we are more alike than I ever imagined. The ONENESS of human needs and happiness is burned in my heart. I said goodbye to my African sisters until we meet again.

My first trip to Kenya was in Sept 2021. I went with many family members. I had no idea what to expect other than Allen (my brother) told me to just let Kenya love me and just be open to anything. I had no idea what he meant at the time but now understand it completely. I came home with my family doubled and feeling more at peace with myself and the world than I had in a long time. Since that trip, I have returned 4 times to my Kenyan family that just keeps growing. I am involved in helping families have sustainable food, clean water, and education. My life has been changed because I let Kenya love me. I am now trying to give back all that Kenya and its people have given me.

Team Pictures Since 2016

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100 Humanitarians International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit recognized by the IRS, and all donations to 100 Humanitarians International are tax-deductible in accordance with IRS regulations. EIN #82-1048388

South Jordan, Utah

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(c) 2017-2024 All Rights Reserved. 100 Humanitarians International

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Humanitarian Trips to Africa

We are humanitarian travel specialists who support independent start-up organizations through to International NGOs. Whether you’re booking humanitarian trips, supporting a visa application, or in the event of an emergency, our experienced specialists in humanitarian travel provide assistance whenever it is needed. This is why we are trusted by 2,000 organizations in the US and have maintained an extremely high client retention rate since our inception as a humanitarian travel agency.

We help organize humanitarian trips to Africa

Our expert humanitarian specialists are here to support you when organizing a humanitarian trip to Africa. We have worked with over 2,000 organizations ranging from independent start-ups to NGOs that provide aid to those who need it most. 

Years of experience and valuable insight

In order to ensure a humanitarian trip to Africa runs smoothly, they require a lot of care, planning and organization. Having the pleasure to successfully arrange an array of humanitarian trips worldwide has provided us with so much valuable experience and insight. 

When planning a humanitarian trip to Africa, it is essential to do your research and find one that suits your skillset and interests . 

Helping you deliver live-saving medical aid

One of the most common ways to help out on Humanitarian trips to Africa is by offering medical aid . This can involve anything from giving vaccinations to assisting in surgeries. 

Less stress, more time to focus on your goals

Our valuable insight and unparalleled buying power come from years of experience working in the humanitarian sector. 

We will also inform you of the correct documentation everyone will need in order to get involved with a humanitarian trip to Africa and find accommodation with trusted partners to make sure your party is working as safely as possible. We also promise exceptional service and fantastic value throughout.

Great value airfares & baggage allowance

We can also offer fantastic benefits when it comes to arranging everything airfare related for humanitarian trips to Africa.  

It’s comforting to know that when planning a humanitarian trip to Africa or beyond, having the ability to hold seats provisionally for up to 11 months, and securing the lowest fare until you are ready to commit, is such an added bonus…especially in such uncertain times.

Efficient, customer-focused travel

We promise to provide value-focused travel solutions.

We know how important every penny is on these trips and we promise to provide value-focused travel solutions that unlock access to fares and rates exclusive to Diversity Travel. 

Recognized as a leading travel management agency in humanitarian travel, we have unparalleled relationships with suppliers, generating cost efficiencies that are passed on to our clients. Our unrivalled level of service is no exception when it comes to humanitarian trips to Africa.

We’re an award-winning humanitarian trip organization

Whether we are booking your next humanitarian trip to Africa, or any other location, we can assist. Even in the search for a global hotel program or in the event that support is needed for one of your travelers on Thanksgiving, you will always be speaking to a friendly member of the Diversity Travel team.

We have built an exceptional team of humanitarian travel experts who are trusted to manage the travel programs of some of the world's highest-profile organizations.

We're only a call away

When arranging a humanitarian trip to Africa, you can be confident that we provide a reduced change and cancelations fees should your plans change after your booking is confirmed. No minimum stay and a maximum stay of up to a year.

  Remember that nothing is too much trouble, and there is no better team than Diversity Travel to have in your corner when planning a humanitarian trip to Africa. Visit our humanitarian trips page to view all of our trips.

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Mission Trips

Looking for short-term mission trips with everything organized for you? Every year, International Volunteer HQ supports more than 15,000 people to volunteer abroad on mission trips in 40+ countries around the world. Since 2007, IVHQ has helped more than 136,000 volunteers complete mission trips to Africa , Asia , Europe , South America , Central America , North America , the Caribbean , Middle East , and the Pacific .

IVHQ offers safe, social and fully-supported mission trips for teens , college students , families and individuals at any stage of life, as well as for those seeking summer mission trips and medical mission trips . With long-term and short-term mission trips starting at just $20/day including accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support, IVHQ is the world’s leading mission trip organization.

IVHQ offers both short-term and long-term mission trips with durations ranging from 1 to 24 weeks. Through IVHQ, you can choose from a diverse range of volunteer projects to support, inclduing: childcare volunteering , wildlife conservation , environmental conservation , medical volunteering , teaching abroad , and much more. These international volunteer opportunities enable you to support locally-driven projects that uplift under-resourced communities around the world.

If you’re looking to join a mission trip in 2024 or 2025, we’ve outlined IVHQ’s most popular types of mission trips and all the information you need to know to find your perfect mission.

What is a mission trip?

A mission trip is an international volunteering opportunity centered around collaborative efforts with local communities to provide essential support where it is most needed. These trips can be either religious or non-religious in nature, aiming to uplift individuals, local communities, and natural environments across the globe. IVHQ offers inclusive volunteer abroad programs that welcome participants of all ages and life stages.

Through IVHQ’s diverse range of mission trips , individuals can make a tangible impact while fostering new friendships, discovering diverse cultures, and broadening their horizons—all while contributing to the well-being of those who require assistance the most.

Why do people go on mission trips?

Mission trips are a popular way to combine your desire to travel and see with world with your motivation to give back and make a difference in the world. While some people see mission trips as an opportunity to put their faith into action, others go on mission trips for a variety of non-religious reasons, including:

To make a difference: Many people go on mission trips make a positive impact in the world through providing support to communities in a range of different ways. This could involve volunteering to teach English , building schools or homes , providing medical care , volunteering with animals or supporting environmental conservation .

To gain a new perspective: Traveling to a new country and immersing yourself in a different culture can be a life-changing and transformative experience. Mission trips allow you to see the world with fresh eyes and gain a better understanding of different cultures and ways of life.

To meet new people: Mission trips offer an opportunity to connect with people from all around the world. International volunteers work together towards a common goal, often forming life-long friendships and connections along the way.

To get out of your comfort zone : Mission trips are an opportunity to discover a new sense of purpose by stepping out of your comfort zone, discovering new countries and cultures, and living like the locals. This can be equally challenging and rewarding! Taking a mission trip is an opportunity to growth as person, discover your strengths and weaknesses and redefine your purpose in life.

While people go on mission trips for a variety of reasons, at the heart of it is a desire to make a positive impact on the world, connect with others and build a better future together.

I recently returned from a mission trip to Sri Lanka and it was everything I dreamt it would be. I lived with a family in the jungle next to the longest river in the country, volunteering in a disabled childcare center. I was so happy with the project and had a wonderful - and sometimes challenging - experience. I would recommend this mission trip to anyone who wants to travel alone.

How much does it cost to go on a mission trip?

The cost of going on a mission trip varies depending on the destination and duration of the trip. IVHQ makes mission trips accessible to volunteers worldwide through affordable volunteer program fees and flexible durations.

For example, the cost of a 2-week mission trip with IVHQ to Tanzania is US$415, while a 4-week trip to India is US$585. These costs cover accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, and in-country support from IVHQ’s local team.

Additional costs that volunteers need to consider include the IVHQ registration fee , airfares, travel insurance, and any necessary visas or vaccinations. However, IVHQ provides detailed information and support to help volunteers prepare for their mission trip and manage these additional costs.

It’s worth noting that IVHQ also offers a range of fundraising ideas and resources to help volunteers cover the costs of their trip. For example, volunteers can create a fundraising page via IVHQ’s fundraising partner and share it with friends and family to collect donations.

IVHQ’s fees are transparent and inclusive, making it easy for volunteers to plan and budget for their trip without breaking the bank.

Why do a mission trip with IVHQ?

If you’re looking to join a mission trip, you likely have a social or environmental cause in mind that you’d like to contribute to. Just as you place importance on the program you join, it’s equally as important to choose a responsible mission trip organization.

At IVHQ, we believe that mission trips should contribute positively towards society. Environmental and social impact has always been at the heart of what we do, which is why we’ve undergone rigorous assessment to become a Certified B Corporation , holding us to the highest ethical standards. We’re also the first and only global volunteer travel provider to declare a Climate Emergency and our operations are certified as 100% carbon neutral.

With a B Corp stamp of approval , Program Fees starting at just $20/day including accommodation, and more than 16 years of experience , IVHQ is proud to be the mission trip organization of choice for thousands of individuals and groups looking to take a meaningful mission trip in 2024 & 2025.

Best mission trip opportunities across the globe

IVHQ offers a range of meaningful volunteer programs in Tanzania, Zambia, Victoria Falls, Madagascar, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, Zanzibar and Namibia. Explore Africa’s beauty while conserving endangered wildlife or giving back to local communities in need.

Available in 11 countries

IVHQ offers volunteer programs in 15 incredible destinations across Asia, including Bali, Cambodia, China, India, Laos, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. Discover new cultures and play a hands-on role in supporting local social and environmental projects.

Available in 10 countries

North America

Join a volunteer program in Mexico or the USA and choose from a range of meaningful projects, from Childcare and Teaching to Animal Care and Environmental Sustainability. IVHQ’s North American volunteer opportunities are based in New Orleans, or in Merida, Mexico.

Available in 2 countries

Central America

Based in the popular destinations of Costa Rica and Guatemala, IVHQ offers a range of impactful volunteer programs in Central America. Support community initiatives, work alongside locals and embrace unique cultural traditions for up to 24 weeks.

South America

IVHQ’s volunteer trips to South America are based in iconic Latin American locations across Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. With unique opportunities in Teaching, Construction, Wildlife Conservation, Medical, Amazon Jungle Conservation, and more, there’s something to suit every volunteer!

Available in 6 countries

IVHQ’s Caribbean volunteer opportunities are based in and around the stunning islands of Jamaica, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, and Puerto Rico. Give back to the local community through Teaching, Marine Conservation, Childcare, Animal Care and other impact led volunteer projects.

Available in 4 countries

Discover Europe’s rich culture and history on a volunteer program in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Romania or Croatia. Choose from a range of meaningful projects including Wolf Conservation, Youth Support, Teaching, Childcare, Special Needs Support, Environmental Scuba Diving and more.

Middle East

Explore the Middle East on a volunteer trip to Jordan. Choose from a range of community projects such as Youth Support, Women’s Education, Teaching and more. When you’re not giving back, you can explore the Middle East’s unique culture through our exhilarating tours and add-ons.

Available in 1 country

Experience the vibrant culture and welcoming communities of the Pacific on a volunteer trip with IVHQ. Choose from a range of life-enriching programs, from preserving the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and coastal waterways in New Zealand to teaching on the beautiful island of Fiji.

Available in 3 countries

Find the best mission trip for you

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Mission trips for teens & high school students

Joining a mission trip is one of the best ways to step outside of your comfort zone, gain new perspective and give back to communities in need. IVHQ offers a range of mission trips for high school students and teens , meaning you don’t need to be 18 to go abroad and make a difference.

Since 2007, IVHQ has supported thousands of young people to volunteer around the world on our youth mission trips. More than 20% of our volunteers are under 20, so we know a thing or two about providing life-changing, reliable travel experiences for young explorers.

We offer safe and affordable volunteer opportunities for teens and high school students in 17 destinations around the globe. Learn more about how to join a mission trip for under 18s .

Top mission trips for teens & high school students:

Volunteer in costa rica.

Volunteer in Guatemala

Volunteer in Tanzania

Mission trips for college students

Today’s student demographic is more progressive than ever before. That’s why student mission trips have become a popular alternative to studying abroad. Instead of studying abroad, many are opting for a more meaningful form of international travel - one that is regenerative and makes a positive impact on local communities.

IVHQ offers mission trips for college students in more than 40 countries around the world. Our mission trips to Africa are particularly popular amongst students. With fees starting at just US$20 per day, our low-cost mission trips are an affordable way for students and young professionals to discover a new country and gain a global perspective while making the world a better place.

When you go on a mission trip with IVHQ, you also have the opportunity to gain academic credit while you volunteer from as little as US$599 for 5 credits - making a super affordable alternative to studying abroad!

Top mission trips for college students:

Volunteer in peru.

Volunteer in Victoria Falls

Volunteer in Zambia

Mission trips for families

Planning a family mission trip can be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to accommodate multiple age groups. IVHQ’s fully-hosted mission trips mean that you can get away and make a difference without having to coordinate and plan for the entire family. The best part? Lots of IVHQ programs offer private room and accommodation upgrades at a very affordable price!

If you have young children, IVHQ has great options that will give you quality time together while instilling the values of service. Family mission trip opportunities are available in Africa , Asia , Europe , Central America and South America .

Our team of Volunteer Travel Experts can provide you with personalized family mission trip recommendations to match your budget and the causes you care about. Learn more about how you can go on a mission trip as a family .

Top mission trips for families:

Volunteer in kenya.

Volunteer in Portugal

Best short-term mission trips

IVHQ offers short-term mission trips for 1 to 3 weeks in over 40 countries, starting at just $20 per day including accommodation . This means you can get away and experience a new culture without needing to take ample time away from your day-to-day priorities.

Our short-term mission trips are designed for those who want to maximize impact in a short period of time and are perfect for students and professionals who are looking to take an alternative break . With everything organized for you, including airport pickup and 24/7 in-country support, you can hit the ground running as soon as you arrive at your destination. Check out our top short-term mission trips for 2024 & 2025:

Top short-term mission trips:

Volunteer in croatia.

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer in Mexico

Best summer mission trips

Summer is one of the most popular times of year to go on a mission trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in a new culture and interact with locals while soaking up the sunshine. With time off from work and school, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the world and make a difference alongside like-minded people.

Whether you have a desire to volunteer abroad with animals or want to find a medical volunteer program , check out these top summer mission trips for 2024 & 2025 .

Top summer mission trips:

Volunteer in puerto rico.

Volunteer in South Africa

Volunteer in Zanzibar

How to get started

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Expeditions

Cultivate. educate. elevate..

Your Family, Yourself, and Others as you Work Learn and Love

AN experience of a Lifetime

Are you looking for an experience that opens your mind and expands your heart something meaningful and adventurous.

Work Together

We provide an opportunity for families to work together side-by-side with local villagers on sustainable, village-driven projects that promote empowerment and self-reliance.

Expand Your Heart

You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, expand your heart and mind, and make friends and memories that last a lifetime.

Hands-On Experience

You’ll participate in water projects, building schools, and unforgettable cultural experiences. 

“Family Humanitarian expeditions are designed to be exhausting, exhilarating, and unforgettable. You’ll love deeper, work harder, and learn more than you ever thought possible. While attempting to change the life of someone else, you’ll undoubtedly change your own.”

Michaela Shirley | Executive Director, FH

Join an Expedition

Current locations.

Summer 2024 Thursday, June 27 to Saturday, July 6

Christmas 2024 Sunday, December 22 to Tuesday, December 31

Named the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is home to the Nile River and is considered among the top 20 most beautiful countries in the world.

Family Humanitarian expeditioners will travel to Mbale, Uganda, and work in villages near the Kenya border. The scenery is breathtaking and the people are warm, welcoming, and lovely. 

Summer 2024 Monday, July 1 to Tuesday, July 9

Thanksgiving 2024 Saturday, November 23 to Sunday, December 1

Christmas 2024 Saturday, December 28 to Sunday, January 5

Called the land of eternal spring, this lush Central American country is rich in history with a mixture of Mayan and Spanish indigenous people.

Family Humanitarian expeditioners will travel to the beautiful and extremely rural mountains of the Polochic Region and stay in the community of Senahu. 

I am Kenyan by birth. During my childhood I spent most of my time taking care of our family livestock. I became a teacher in 2018 after high school and the joy of seeing children developing from one stage to another created a very meaningful impact in me. I learned to love and serve them as my own children. Later in 2020, I was given the opportunity to serve as a missionary in Liberia and learned new cultures and to serve different people in different ways. I was given the opportunity to gain gospel knowledge that still remains with me. Afterwards, I earned an Accounting and Management Certificate at KCA University Nairobi, Kenya.

The joy and the passion to continue serving people has been lifted up as I join Family Humanitarian. The work we do to help communities get clean and safe water for drinking creates smiling faces in many people. I enjoy being around people and serving them through Family Humanitarian. The greatest treasures I have are the people around me.

Wayne Berger is the CEO of IWG Americas: United States, Canada and Latin America, the global flexspace and workspace-as-a-service leader. The company harnesses the power of flexible working through its companies Regus, Spaces, No. 18, Open Office, HQ, and Signature. IWG currently operates over 1200 coworking and flexible workspace locations throughout the Americas, and over 3500 locations across 1200 cities globally.

Wayne is a key driver and enabler for the transforming world of work. With over 20 years in multi-national executive leadership positions helping companies improve the way they maximize their financial performance, workspace and office portfolio, leadership, and communities, Wayne is leading the acceleration of the workplace revolution— evolving from traditional office space to the new era of hybrid working strategies supported by the world’s largest global physical and digital network of flexible workspace. Follow Wayne Berger @wayneberger.

Mike Wagstaff is the president of Holiday Oil. Holiday Oil is an Utah family-owned and -operated chain of convenience stores. Holiday Oil is a privately held company that employs approximately 1,000 people. It was founded in 1964 by Mike’s father, Jerry Wagstaff. Besides convenience stores, Holiday Oil owns a wholesale distribution company, Cottonwood Distribution, a fuel delivery company, Holiday Trucking, and a real estate company, Wagstaff Investments.

Mike has been President since 2003 and has been instrumental in the company’s growth. Under his leadership, Holiday implemented vertical integration with their purchase of a distribution company, increased community outreach, and continues to build upon the legacy his father started. Mike serves on the Chevron National Marketer’s Council and is the past president of Utah Petroleum Marketers & Retailers Association. Mike received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Marketing and continues to learn through professional associations and reading books. Mike enjoys serving his community and Church.

Mike and his wife, Carrie, are proud parents of four children and one grandchild. They enjoy spending time outdoors, being with their family, and serving others. They reside in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships Utah Jazz

Greg Tanner is a seasoned executive currently serving as senior vice president of corporate partnerships at the Utah Jazz. In this role, he oversees sponsor fulfillment, activation and partner renewals, working with a leadership team and account and activation managers to grow partnership revenue through long-term relationships.

Tanner has been with the organization since 1995, when he started as an account executive for the Utah Jazz. Over the years, he has held various positions, including national sales manager, director of sales for the Utah Jazz and Starzz, and vice president of sales and service for the Utah Jazz, Salt Lake Bees, Tour of Utah, Miller Motorsports Park, 1280 the Zone, and Jazz Gaming.

A graduate of Brigham Young University, Tanner holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and broadcast sales and management. He is a native of Murray, Utah, and currently resides in Cottonwood Heights with his wife, Brandy. They have seven children and four grandchildren, and enjoy spending time with family, hiking and traveling. Greg enjoys playing pickleball, golf, and fly fishing with his sons. They also have a French Bulldog, Lulu.

Helping people is a big part of who I am. I find a real sense of gratification in being able to serve, lift, and help others while being a part of Family Humanitarian efforts. Some of the best reasons for working with Family Humanitarian are that it is a great opportunity to bless lives and help our communities thrive. Our people are being helped through Family Humanitarian by strengthening present and future generations and producing a culture of greater self-reliance. Providing clean water and educating children is such a vital part of improving lives.

Before I worked for Family Humanitarian I worked in broiler and laying chicken projects. Then I worked for another foundation that allowed me to get to know the leaders of Family Humanitarian. FH is making an important contribution to nutrition, education, and infrastructure through the construction of classrooms for schools and clinics. The clinics allow community members to have access to better infrastructure conditions. With the construction of desks the children in the schools have a place to sit and be able to write. The cultural exchange has also allowed the children who accompany their parents on the expedition to notice the difficulties of children in low-income communities and has allowed our children to start dreaming that there is a better way to live. Personally, it has allowed me to continue in the process of preparing myself educationally by finishing the Pathway Connect program at Brigham Young University. I hope to continue until I achieve a degree.

I was born and raised in Accra, Ghana. I am the second of five children. I first came in contact with the current Chairman and Co-Founder/Executive Director Sheldon Killpak and Michaela Shirley in the year 2020. For more than three years I have looked forward to working with and being a part of the life-changing efforts of Family Humanitarian. In January 2023, I visited some of the completed and ongoing water and school projects in the Northern Region of Ghana. I served as a missionary in Uganda. I enjoy cooking, singing, listening to music, and road trips. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Business Management through the pathways program of Brigham Young University-Idaho.

I was born in Mbale and raised in different regions of Uganda. For the first three years of elementary school, I schooled under mango trees. Teachers were available, and a black chalk board was pinned on mango tree. No desks were available, so all the kids had to seat on the ground. Whenever it rained or was windy that marked the end of lessons for the day. Every morning before school I would walk 4km to collect dirty stream water which was the only water source in the community.

I love working for Family Humanitarian experience because I believe we show our love to God through serving his Children. One of the authors in the scriptures mentioned, “When you are in the service of your fellow beings, you are only in the service of your God.” Is a great joy when I see good samaritans rendering services to the community. Family Humanitarian experience has helped my people to have good water in the community. It has reduced the rate of typhoid diseases in my country, and FH has provided good learning environment for students by offering structures.

Today I am so grateful for the great work FH is doing. May God bless all those who donate for this work to continue and those who are faithfully helping in the service. Thanks with much love, Andrew Ochom.

Before I began working for Family Humanitarian I was volunteering in the villages as a team coordinator to teach people to take care of their lives and survive certain diseases. I love the work Family Humanitarian does. I was born in the village. I grew up in the village. I saw and I went through the hardship of finding clean sources of drinking water. I have a heart for serving my people. I have always hoped that someday I could be an instrument to change their lives. Working with Family Humanitarian fulfills my dream. That love I have from growing up wanting to save my dear brothers and sisters who are going through the same challenges that I went through. Family Humanitarian is really blessing my people. It is a way that we can save them from water borne diseases. When you look at the communities around where I live and the country at large most of the diseases my people encounter is waterborne disease because they get their water from the pond where they share with the animals. Getting clean water is improving people’s lives and their life expectancy because so many people die from cholera and so many people die from typhoid. It is really expensive when people get these diseases. Avoiding getting these diseases by drinking clean water helps their families to save money because so much money goes to treat these diseases. I really enjoy working with Family Humanitarian because it is really saving people’s lives. Thank you so much!

I am from Kenya, but I am currently working in Uganda. I love working for Family Humanitarian because there is joy in doing good and that’s how I feel every day when I visit communities that have received help and those awaiting support in getting clean drinking water. Water is life! I have come to understand it’s also a precious commodity. If you have access to running water kindly don’t take it for granted. Give Thanks! Family Humanitarian has been a great blessing to my people, and it has impacted their lives. When people have access to clean water, kids get time to play, instead of walking many kilometers to get water. Mothers can enjoy their free time knowing they don’t have to walk long hours and wake up as early as 4am to get to water before the animals get there and it gets dirty. For sure God blesses His people. FHE has brought joy to many. I love seeing happy mother’s and kids and happy communities.

I was born and raised in a humble family in Kenya. I am married to Maria Mukendi. We currently live in Uganda. I served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the West Africa, Ghana Kumasi Mission. In 2019, while doing my online diploma in Work Health and Safety, I had the privileged to work at the Ghana Missionary Training Center as a Gospel and Swahili Teacher. My service in the MTC paved the way for me to see others the same way God sees them. I refer to it as “meeting God halfway,” doing your part and letting God do the rest. When we do our part, it helps God to transform lives.

I have a strong impression that my experiences prepared me to be part of a great Family Humanitarian team. It helped me recognize the potential people have within to transform their lives to a better version. Many children struggle to get enough time to learn because most of their time is spent searching for water. Getting an education becomes impossible. With Family Humanitarian helping and supporting, communities can receive access to safe and clean water for drinking. Children have enough time to study, and parents have adequate time to be become self-reliant through adult literacy training offered by Family Humanitarian. It all starts with safe and clean water. That can unite communities together to eradicate poverty.

Jim Charles is an entrepreneur with over 20 years of international business expertise. Jim has spent his career working across the globe with focuses in Africa, South East Asia, Europe and LATAM. In addition to the United States, Jim has lived and worked in Europe, Asia and Africa and has extensive work and operational experience in the U.K., Philippines, India, Colombia, Taiwan, Ghana, Mexico, Costa Rica, Puerto Rica, Spain, Ireland and South Africa. Jim currently serves as co-founder and Chief Client Officer of Buwelo, a Business Process Outsourcing company headquartered out of Nevada and with operations in the United States, The Philippines and Colombia.

Jim’s passion for travel and his love for different peoples and cultures has been a perfect fit for Family Humanitarian. Jim firmly believes in sharing the blessings of his success and sees no better platform than clean water, better health and education for the impoverished and less fortunate. In addition to Family Humanitarian, Jim supports charities in the U.S. and abroad. Raised in Kentucky, Jim currently splits his time equally between Utah and Hawaii where he enjoys time with his family and chasing the sun. Jim is an avid sports fan and runner and competes in marathons around the world.

Entrepreneurs, world travelers, and humanitarians. Recently married with 6 children, Terisa works in the home, taking care of the family while Jim successfully runs a call center out of the Philippines. We feel that God has brought us together and we recognize that he continues to guide our lives. We owe and dedicate everything that we’ve achieved or are able to accomplish to Him.

Saren is the founder and director of Power of Families (PowerofFamilies.com) and hosts the podcast Power of Families Radio. Over the past 12 years, more than 200,000 parents around the world have participated in Saren’s online and in-person presentations, courses, conferences, and retreats.

Prior to her work with Power of Families, Saren had the opportunity to do humanitarian and missionary work in Eastern Europe (setting up volunteer programs in orphanages there), participate in humanitarian service trips in Africa and Bolivia, co-direct national Make a Difference Day and volunteer recognition efforts for the Points of Light Foundation in Washington D.C., write materials for the Harvard Family Research Project, design and run enrichment programs in schools in Boston, develop teacher training and curriculum for schools and preschools, and design and conduct trainings for educators throughout the United States for the Corporation for National Service.

Saren and her husband, Jared, currently live in Ogden, Utah and are parents of five children ages 14 to 19. As a family, the Looslis have been involved in many community volunteer efforts and have done a lot of fundraising and hands-on work with orphanages in Eastern Europe.

Brandon was born and raised in Northern Utah and spent and served a two year mission to Thailand and Cambodia. He then attended the University of Utah, and received his Bachelors of Arts in Business with a Marketing emphasis. He has enjoyed a successful career as a sales professional for the past 20 years. He is married to Natalie Wight Mattson, and they have four daughters and one son who they adore.

In 2017 he attended a Family Humanitarian expedition with his children and since then has been on multiple development expeditions to Uganda, Kenya, and Ghana. He has been instrumental in helping Family Humanitarian create a board of directors and expand our education, water programs, and fund-raising efforts. His family has shared his passion for Family Humanitarian and have supported and helped provide encouragement and inspiration.

Sheldon was born in Salt Lake City on May 24, 1968. He is the youngest of nine children. When Sheldon was eight years old the family moved to Layton City. Sheldon graduated from Layton High School in 1986 and Weber State University in 1994. He currently resides in Layton, Utah. He and Nicole have four children and five grandchildren.

Sheldon has been actively involved and connected within the community. In 1987 he became a board member for the South Davis Chamber of Commerce. In 2000 he was instrumental in the process of merging the three Chambers of Commerce in Davis County; Sheldon was elected as the first Chair of the Board in 2000. In 2003 Sheldon served on the founding board of the Davis Convention and Visitors Bureau. In June of 2003 Governor Leavitt appointed Sheldon to the Utah State Senate to represent District 21, filling a vacancy. He was re-elected in November of 2004 and again in 2006 where he spent most of his time on committees involving Transportation and Economic Development. He was elected into Senate Leadership after three years and was the Senate Majority Leader when he left the Senate in 2010. Sheldon has also served on the Board of the North Davis Hospital and Medical Center, Utah Defense Alliance, Utah Transit Authority, the Davis Convention and Visitors Bureau and the United Way of Salt Lake Executive Steering Committee, Co-Chair of the Utah Sports Commission, and the Utah Center for Digital Arts Executive Committee.

Born and raised in northern Utah, Steve graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor’s in Communications and Master’s in Instructional Technology. He works as a Product Manager, digital media consultant, and content creator for major travel and outdoor brands. Steve has a great passion for adventure travel, community development, and loves helping people realize their potential by living on purpose. He lives in Utah with his wife, Rachel, and six children.

Born and raised in beautiful Cache Valley, Utah, Rachel attended Utah State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a master’s degree in Business Administration. She finds true joy now in motherhood and in helping people through various ways to rise to the their full potential and become self-reliant. She has tremendous gratitude that she gets to be a part of the growth of Family Humanitarian because of the lasting friendships and ways it has expanded her heart and mind. Her greatest joy is raising six children and having fun adventures with her family.

David, the youngest of three children, was born and raised in the Dallas area. He attended Brigham Young University and was called to serve in the Austria Vienna Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he grew to love and respect the people and culture. After returning from his mission and finishing his undergraduate work, David was accepted into the College of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M where he graduated with a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine.

David and his wife, Michaela, were married in the Dallas Temple and have been blessed with 5 wonderful children who remind them of that which is of greatest worth. After working more than 20 years in the veterinary profession, David and Michaela have trusted in the Lord and have turned more of their time and energy toward serving those less fortunate. David is currently working toward making humanitarian work his full-time pursuit.

Born and raised primarily in Nebraska, Michaela attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas where she earned a Bachelor’s of Business Administration majoring in both Accounting and Finance. Michaela has always had a passion for humanitarian work. She and her husband have worked throughout their marriage toward the goal of being able to help people in need throughout the world and feel blessed to see that goal come to fruition. Michaela has started and run several successful businesses and has served in various leadership roles. Some of her greatest joys have been found in raising her five beautiful children. Michaela and her family currently reside in Dallas, Texas.

Tyler DeLange is one of the original founders, and a current director, of Family Humanitarian. He also helped to co-found Singular Humanitarian in 2009. Tyler is a physician in Emergency Medicine and currently works for Utah Emergency Physicians (UEP). He completed his residency at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.

Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley of Southern California, Tyler’s passion for humanitarian work began at the age of 11 when he helped serve in an orphanage across the boarder in Ensenada, Mexico. Since that time he served as a missionary in Argentina, and has served on a number of humanitarian expeditions to Ghana, Kenya, Guatemala, Bolivia, Guyana, Peru, Nepal, and Uganda, in addition to organizing humanitarian efforts during the year from the United States. He currently lives in South Jordan, Utah with his wife Sarah, and 4 children. His hobbies include canyoneering, trekking, and basketball, among many other interests.

Sarah is enjoying her role as a stay-at home mom to 4 young children, having traded life in the corporate world for the opportunity to spend time with them. She worked at Marriott International, the largest hotel company in the world, for 17 years, both at their corporate headquarters and on property. She grew up in San Antonio, Texas in a family of 8 children and graduated in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University. Sarah enjoys reading, photography, creating things, trying out new restaurants, cooking and soaking up time with family. She is married to Tyler DeLange and loves his big heart for helping others.

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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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October 23, 2023

Humanitarian Trip to Kenya

We are profoundly grateful for your partnership during our inaugural humanitarian trip to Kenya, Africa. Your invaluable support has offered both material and emotional sustenance to countless children and adults in this beautiful country.

In Nairobi, we journeyed to the Kibera slum, the largest in Africa and the third largest globally. Here, we encountered a children’s center serving dual purposes: a school for 149 children and a sanctuary for some orphans. Our expedition led us to small business centers where industrious women ran crafts workshops, hair salons, and food kiosks – a testament to their resilience and spirit of enterprise.

Liki Special school

Our journey took another inspiring turn when we visited a school for children with special needs. The unwavering faith of the leaders and teachers resonated deeply as they committed to enhancing these children’s mental abilities and self-worth through simple handicrafts. The sale of these crafts supports the institution and the children.

Upon their request, we were able to financially assist in clearing school debts and ensuring a steady supply of food and medication for the students

Mombasa – Kilifi

In Mombasa, we had the privilege of exploring the Care Center, which undertakes the noble task of feeding students from all Kilifi Village schools. The aim, as conveyed by the dedicated leaders and pastor, is to offer daily sustenance to children whose parents face economic challenges.

 The Egyptian Coptic Hospital

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Family Volunteering Trips Africa

Family volunteering trips offered by Go Volunteer Africa are more than a vacation. Volunteering in Africa as a family makes your bonds stronger, by not only visiting new places, but by also getting involved in humanitarian activities together, at a new place and among new people with cultures different to yours.

Highlights for our Family Volunteering Trips Africa

• Super-affordable price and value
• Popular professional programs
• Flexible schedules with free time to explore
• Provide much-needed assistance

Go Volunteer Africa’s family volunteering trips Africa offers a great opportunity to immerse your family in a different culture and language, that will change how your children perceive their own lives. Volunteering with your family allows you to change lives whilst enhancing your own.

Expand the mind and open the hearts of each family member with our unique Africa volunteering opportunities and instill the importance of responsible travel and philanthropy, whilst also building deeper bonds through important family teamwork.

Plan a trip to Africa with a difference and make travel exciting and rewarding for the whole family, no matter what age you are; our volunteering experiences can bridge the gap between generations and bring you all closer together and giving memories of a lifetime.

Why your family should join our volunteering trips to Africa

Family volunteering trips is a unique alternative to normal family travel vacations, because it lets everyone work as a team to improve others’ lives, as your children discover new worlds from the residents’ point of view.

Family members will also discover new sides of everyone else during the volunteering experience. The children will also learn to respect charitable service and exercise language skills while discovering cultural differences and unique traditions of unique people. Volunteering work will teach them flexibility, endurance and acceptance of new customs and principles.

Projects and Destinations for Family Volunteering Trips Africa

Go Volunteer Africa offers family volunteer opportunities in over 10 countries in Africa with carefully selected projects for your safety and memorable experience. Our most popular family volunteering projects are childcare and orphanage support programs.

Teaching English, organizing games and sports, music, dance and drama activities are some of the projects families can get involved with while in Africa. You can choose to volunteer with your family in   Tanzania,   Zanzibar ,  Rwanda ,  Kenya ,  Uganda ,  Zambia ,  Sierra Leone ,  Senegal ,  Togo .

Go Volunteer Africa also offers wildlife conservation volunteer work to families. Treat the animal lovers in your family to this unique opportunity. We work with wildlife sanctuaries that rehabilitate and care for rescued and injured wild animals.

Family Volunteer Opportunities Africa

Our local teams make sure that your family experience every stage of your volunteering trip to Africa together. You’ll sleep, eat and work on the same volunteer project as a team. Based on ages and physical abilities, some family members may participate in various ways. This will be a learning experience for your children as everyone serves the needy as a unit. They’ll make discoveries about themselves, your family and how they can give to the world.

HOW TO APPLY

To start the process fill  Volunteer application form  and submit it for consideration and book your placement. For more information on how to get enrolled for the volunteering experience of a lifetime  contact us .  Or Give us a call | WhatsApp | Telegram | Viber | Imo at  +254-796-786292  to talk to a Program Specialist.

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Related Articles

ZAMBIA: Medical Volunteer Project

If you are looking to gain medical work experience or would just like to help people consider applying for our Zambia medical volunteer project working to improve the healthcare condition in vulnerable communities in Zambia. [Read More]

Malawi Travel Guide

Malawi travel guide, including Malawi travel experiences, tips for travel in Malawi, plus how to travel across Lake Malawi. Malawi is the ‘warm heart of Africa’: a sliver of a country hemmed in by Zambia, [Read More]

UGANDA: Teaching Volunteer Project

The Uganda Teaching volunteer project is an enriching and satisfying experience where the volunteer get the opportunity to teach children who are eager to improve their conversational English skills and other subjects. The volunteers serving [Read More]

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Mission trips to Africa are the perfect opportunities to explore the stunning continent while making a sustainable difference as a volunteer ... read more

Mission trips to Africa are the perfect opportunities to explore the stunning continent while making a sustainable difference as a volunteer. If you do not have plenty of time on hand, mission trips are a perfect opportunity for you. Despite your short-term volunteer program, your dedication will still contribute to the well-being of the local community.

With its rich culture and arts and stunning landscapes, Africa is a highly popular volunteer destination. Whether you want to assist in the medical sector in Tanzania , build schools in Ghana , or rescue animals in South Africa , our different volunteer programs will cater your needs. What are you waiting for? Join one of our mission trips in Africa that are just as diverse as the continent itself!

South Africa Wildlife Reserve Volunteers

Be part of a life-changing experience that allows you to work behind the scenes on a world-class wildlife reserve in South Africa! 🦏 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="0" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Rhino & Elephant Conservation

Volunteer in Africa and help secure the future of the endangered black rhino and elephant. Experience daily life on a 10,000 acre family-run private conservancy. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="1" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Marine Conservation Research Assistant

Protect Madagascar's marine ecosystem with MRCI's Marine Conservation Research program. Dive into meaningful conservation work! 🤿 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="2" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Big 5 Monitoring, Conservation, Sustainable Living

Give your contribution towards wildlife conservation! Learn about animal behaviour, reserve management and anti-poaching while living a lifetime experience! 🇿🇦 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="3" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Wildlife Sanctuary Supporter

Here you'll direct all of your efforts towards the long term rehabilitation of animals. Experience hands-on volunteering with baboons, small animals and much more! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="4" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Eco Nature and Coastal Conservation

Eco Volunteering in Wildlife & Marine Conservation. Uncover the whole big picture of our Eco-System for a better understanding of Nature & learn how to make a difference! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="5" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Forest Conservation Research Assistant

MRCI’s Forest Conservation Program involves long-term monitoring of the forest on Nosy Komba Island as well as the diversity and abundance of its endemic wildlife. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="6" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sea Turtle Conservation Monitor

MRCI’s Sea Turtle Monitoring Program has been established to identify and develop Safe Turtle Breeding Zones in North Western Madagascar landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="7" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Teaching at Primary School

Volunteer with children aged 6-13 years (Grade R - 7) as a teacher's assistant at a primary school in Cape Town. Make your travel to South Africa meaningful! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="8" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Wildlife Supporter

Volunteer at our Big Five Game reserve, support the local staff in monitoring the animals and conserving the environment. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="9" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sea Turtle Conservation

Protect endangered sea turtles along the Ghana coastline. Working on nesting sites and beach patrols whilst experiencing beautiful surroundings in your free time. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="10" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Primary School Support In Rural Kwahu Mountains

Provide a supporting role within our schools that extremely lack resources. Run tutoring sessions covering English and core subjects as well as teaching assistance. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="11" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Tanzania Childcare Volunteers

Leave a lasting impression on the lives of some of Tanzania’s most disadvantaged children by assisting with childcare and education in a childcare center. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="12" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Sports Education Coach

Sports and physical education coaching at local primary schools with Children aged 6 - 13 years old. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="13" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Vervet Monkey Rescue & Rehabilitation

Volunteer with rescued Vervet Monkeys at a permitted Monkey Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release Centre in the lush province of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="14" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Whales, Sharks and Penguins Conservation

Experience not only Whale, Dolphin, Shark and Penguin research and monitoring but also community education, environmental issues, ecology and ecotourism landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="15" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Childcare at a Creche or Kindergarten

Enrich young lives in Cape Town by volunteering at a Creche or Kindergarten for infants and children up to 6 years of age! 🇿🇦 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="16" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Assistant for Medical Work

Join our health projects, gain insight into healthcare challenges in developing nations, and make a meaningful impact! 🩺 landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="17" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

Baboon Rehabilitator & Care-Giver

Care for orphans, bond with surrogate baboon mothers, prepare food, clean enclosures, and embrace life in South Africa with hands-on baboon work! landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="18" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

English Teaching & Tutoring in Rural Schools

Help out in schools to assist with the teaching and understanding of the English language. Providing a strong foundation for the children to develop. landing-page#addSelectItemEventToDataLayer" data-landing-page-item-index-param="19" class="text-[#3399CC] ssm:hidden"> Details >

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Missed Connections: 1969 Humanitarian Trip To Africa

Lulu Garcia-Navarro

In our latest "Missed Connections," Helen Chapple, Saul Blair and Graham Hinton reunite to talk about how a humanitarian trip to Africa 50 years ago changed the trajectory of their lives.

Copyright © 2019 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at www.npr.org for further information.

NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an NPR contractor. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Accuracy and availability may vary. The authoritative record of NPR’s programming is the audio record.

Exclusive: 61-year-old humanitarian worker from Spout Spring tragically murdered in Ghana

A Spout Spring family is in mourning and trying to bring home their loved one after she was reported murdered in Ghana, Africa. 

According to the family of Norma Jean-Gilbert, the 61-year-old woman was living in a small village in Ghana doing humanitarian work for the community. Norma's sister Barbara Pennix told ABC13 Sunday that they found out from Ghana Police that she had been murdered at her own home. 

"I believe they were plotting against her the whole time you know," Pennix said. "They robbed her, bludgeoned her to death, and they buried her behind her home."

The family said two people were arrested for the crime and shared a press release from Ghana Police below:

The Ghana Police said that one of the men involved was Norma's fiance, but Pennix said that was not right.

"They told the police what happened and one man said he was her fiance, but we know that's wrong," Pennix said. "The man that did, she hired to do work around her home because he didn't have anywhere to go. Then, he got somebody else to help as well."

SEE ALSO:  VDOT alerts public to road closure in Appomattox County

Norma's son, Jawaun Gibert-Eldridge said he found out the news last Saturday and told his other two brothers. 

"My little brother had just called me, and he had told me they killed ma-ma," Jawaun said. "He was just balling out crying. How could you do something like that? Every time you talked to her, she would say something like 'love life, have prosperity.'"

Jawuan said he knew something was wrong when she didn't answer his phone calls. 

"I just kept calling her phone," Jawuan said. "I was calling her phone the whole night; I stayed up the whole night, and she wasn't answering. 

Pennix said Norma originally traveled to Africa and after that first trip, she knew Norma wanted to do more. 

"She just wanted to see what it was like and always wanted to go to Africa," Pennix said. "Once she had seen what it was like and she fell in love with it, her goal was to get back to Africa."

Both Norma's son and Pennix said she always had a heart for serving others. 

"She was working in the community, serving hot meals and just helping," Pennix said. "They were gonna name her the Mother Queen - she had been bestowed that honor."

"My younger brother was the last person who went over there, and she lived in a small village," Jawuan said. "A whole bunch of little girls, she made sure she brought shoes for every single person and toys."

As the family copes with their loss, Jawuan said his mom's passion and legacy will always live on. 

"I wanna have a daughter and tell her anything positive and everything positive about her," Jawuan said. 

The family is working with the American Embassy and local lawmakers to figure out how to bring her remains back to the United States. 

They are asking for your prayers and support during this time. 

Norma's three sons have set up a GoFundMe to help raise support to pay to get the remains home. Click here if you would like to learn more. 

UN migration agency assists survivors of deadly shipwreck off Djibouti

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The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is offering medical care, food, shelter and psychosocial support to 33 migrants who survived a shipwreck off the coast of Djibouti on Monday, as local authorities continue search and rescue operations. 

The migrants were on a boat carrying at least 77 people from Ras al-Ara off Yemen’s coast which capsized off the coast of Djibouti, near Obock, leaving 24 dead and 20 others missing.

Just two weeks ago, a similar accident, resulting in the death of at least 38 migrants, occurred.  

“ The occurrence of two such tragedies within a span of two weeks highlights the dangers faced by children, women, and men migrating through irregular routes, underscoring the importance of establishing safe and legal pathways for migration,” said Tanja Pacifico, IOM Chief of Mission in Djibouti.   

Searching for a better life 

In both cases, it is believed that migrants were trying to return to Djibouti from Yemen after being unable to travel to Saudi Arabia for better work and other opportunities.

Each year, tens of thousands of migrants from the Horn of Africa, in particular Ethiopia and Somalia, attempt to travel through Djibouti for Saudi Arabia and the Gulf nations, but are often unsuccessful and end up stranded in Yemen.

“We must work to prevent as much as possible those circumstances where migrants' safety and well-being are threatened and ensure that migrants are able to maintain contact with their families,” Ms. Pacifico said.

Numbers on the rise

IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix ( DTM ) has reported that 3,682 migrants have left Yemen for Djibouti since the beginning of 2024 – this is more than double the figure from last year.

Despite the dangerous and life-threatening journey, IOM's DTM recorded about 380,000 journeys along the Eastern Corridor from Africa to countries in the Arab Peninsula which claimed the lives of 1,350 – many more deaths have gone unreported. 

IOM Djibouti is continually supporting local authorities to prevent similar deaths on sea and land. The organization has also partnered with 48 other humanitarian and development groups and governments to coordinate the Regional Migrant Response Plan (MRP) which will respond to migrants’ humanitarian needs along the Eastern Route. 

Ms. Pacifico noted, “IOM, as Coordinator of the UN Network on Migration, is actively working on actionable recommendations for providing humanitarian assistance to migrants in distress and addressing the plight of missing migrants and their families.” 

Severe Kenya flooding: 50 more dead, dozens of search and rescue operations underway

At least 50 people have died and mass search and rescue operations were underway in Kenya Wednesday following severe flooding in the East African county, the Red Cross reported.

In all, more than 100,000 people have been affected by the deluge in the country's capital city of Nairobi, which destroyed homes, swept away bridges and left dozen injured, officials in the country are reporting.

According to the non-profit organization, crews were searching for people trapped by floodwaters in more than 14 tourist camps in Talek, Narok, after the Talek River broke its banks.

Kenya President William Ruto offered condolences to families that lost their loved ones due to the deluge.

"We pray for quick recovery to the injured," Ruto posted on X. "A multi-agency rescue operation, including the military, is currently underway in all affected areas. It will help offer temporary shelter, food, clothing and medical care, besides carrying out emergency evacuations and searches."

Dozens rescued by air, water teams

With aide from community members, the Mara Elephant Project , and more, the Red Cross reported on X it had rescued 36 people by air and 25 people by water rescue teams.

"In some camps, tents have been swept away, and the Mara Bridge, linking the Mara Triangle and the Greater Mara, has been washed away," the Red Cross reported.

The M-PESA Foundation , which works with the United Nations, is also assisting the organization on the ground providing food to those affected by the natural disaster.

"Today, we have already begun distributing food in at least four areas within Nairobi," The Red Cross posted on social media Wednesday.

"So deeply saddened by the loss of life, devastation and destruction caused by continued flooding in Kenya," Inger Andersen, the executive director of the United Nations Environment Program posted on X . " @UNEP is proud to call Nairobi home & we send our condolences to all those that have lost loved ones. Grateful for work of @UNKenya to support ongoing humanitarian needs."

Here are the 2024 Hurricane names: List of 2024 Atlantic hurricane season storm names starts with Alberto

Photos of Kenya flooding show Red Cross workers wade through water

Photos from the scene shot by Reuters show Red Cross workers wade through flood waters to assess the Athi River-Namanga highway affected after the seasonal river burst its banks in Kitengela municipality of Kajiado County, near Nairobi.

One shot taken from the scene shows Red Cross members clutching a safety rope while they trek through dirty water in an attempt to rescue residents trapped in homes.

This is a developing story.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.

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US military ships are working to build a pier for Gaza aid. It’s going to cost at least $320 million

A U.S. Navy ship and several Army vessels involved in an American-led effort to bring more aid into the besieged Gaza Strip were offshore of the enclave building out a floating platform for the operation that the Pentagon has said will cost at least $320 million.

This satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC shows the USNS Roy P. Benavidez, center, in the Mediterranean Sea off shore from the Gaza Strip on Monday, April 29, 2024. A U.S. Navy ship involved in the American-led effort to bring more aid into the besieged Gaza Strip is off shore from the enclave, slowly building out a floating platform for the operation, satellite photos analyzed Monday by The Associated Press show. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

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In this image provided by the U.S. Army, soldiers assigned to the 7th Transportation Brigade (Expeditionary) and sailors attached to the MV Roy P. Benavidez assemble the Roll-On, Roll-Off Distribution Facility (RRDF), or floating pier, off the shore of Gaza in the Mediterranean Sea on April 26, 2024. The pier is part of the Army’s Joint Logistics Over The Shore (JLOTS) system which provides critical bridging and water access capabilities. (U.S. Army via AP)

This satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC shows the USNS Roy P. Benavidez in the Mediterranean Sea off shore from the Gaza Strip on Saturday, April 27, 2024. A U.S. Navy ship involved in the American-led effort to bring more aid into the besieged Gaza Strip is off shore from the enclave, slowly building out a floating platform for the operation, satellite photos analyzed Monday, April 29, 2024, by The Associated Press show. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

This satellite photo from Planet Labs PBC shows the USNS Roy P. Benavidez in the Mediterranean Sea off shore from the Gaza Strip on Sunday, April 28, 2024. A U.S. Navy ship involved in the American-led effort to bring more aid into the besieged Gaza Strip is off shore from the enclave, slowly building out a floating platform for the operation, satellite photos analyzed Monday, April 29, 2024, by The Associated Press show. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

JERUSALEM (AP) — A U.S. Navy ship and several Army vessels involved in an American-led effort to bring more aid into the besieged Gaza Strip are offshore of the enclave and building out a floating platform for the operation that the Pentagon has said will cost at least $320 million.

Sabrina Singh, Pentagon spokeswoman, told reporters the cost is a rough estimate for the project and includes the transportation of the equipment and pier sections from the United States to the coast of Gaza, as well as the construction and aid delivery operations.

Satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press on Tuesday show the USNS Roy P. Benavidez about 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from the port on shore, where the base of operations for the project is being built by the Israeli military. The USAV General Frank S. Besson Jr., an Army logistics vessel, and several other Army boats are with the Benavidez and working on the construction of what the military calls the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore, or JLOTS, system.

Satellite images from Sunday and Monday by Planet Labs PBC showed pieces of the floating pier in the Mediterranean Sea, alongside the Benavidez. Measurements of the vessel match known features of the Benavidez, a Bob Hope-class vehicle cargo ship operated by the Military Sealift Command.

A U.S. military official confirmed late last week that the Benavidez had begun construction and that it was far enough off shore to ensure that the troops building the platform would be safe. Singh said on Monday that next will come the construction of the causeway, which will then be anchored to the beach.

AP AUDIO: US military ships are working to build a pier for Gaza aid. It’s going to cost at least $320 million.

AP correspondent Donna Warder reports on a U.S.-led plan to bring more aid into Gaza, that will cost hundreds of millions of dollars.

The U.S. military’s Central Command early Tuesday published images of the floating pier’s construction online, after the AP’s publication of the satellite photos.

“The pier will support USAID and humanitarian partners to receive and deliver humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza,” the statement on the social platform X said.

U.S. and Israeli officials have said they hope to have the floating pier in place, the causeway attached to the shore and operations underway by early May. The Pentagon said on Monday the operation will cost at least $320 million. The cost was first reported by Reuters.

Under the plan by the U.S. military, aid will be loaded onto commercial ships in Cyprus to sail to the floating platform now under construction off Gaza. The pallets will be loaded onto trucks, which will be loaded onto smaller ships that will travel to a metal, floating two-lane causeway. The 550-meter (1,800-foot) causeway will be attached to the shore by the Israeli Defense Forces.

The U.S. military official said an American Army engineering unit has teamed with an Israeli military engineering unit in recent weeks to practice the installation of the causeway, training on an Israeli beach just up the coast.

The new port sits southwest of Gaza City and a bit north of a road bisecting Gaza that the Israeli military built during the current war against Hamas . The area was the territory’s most populous before the Israeli ground offensive rolled through and pushed more than 1 million people south toward the city of Rafah on the border with Egypt.

Now Israeli military positions are on either side of the port, which initially had been built — as part of an effort led by World Central Kitchen — out of the rubble of buildings leveled by Israel. That effort halted after an Israeli airstrike killed seven World Central Kitchen aid workers on April 1 as they traveled in clearly marked vehicles on a delivery mission authorized by Israel. The organization says it is resuming its work in Gaza.

Aid has been slow to get into Gaza, with long backups of trucks awaiting Israeli inspections. The U.S. and other nations also have used air drops to send food into Gaza. The U.S. military official said deliveries on the sea route initially will total about 90 trucks a day and could quickly increase to about 150 trucks daily.

Aid organizations have said several hundred such trucks are needed to enter Gaza every day.

In the aftermath of Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel, which killed 1,200 people and saw 250 others taken hostage, Israel cut off or heavily restricted food, water, medicine, electricity and other aid from entering the Gaza Strip. Under pressure from the U.S. and others , Israel says the situation is improving, though United Nations agencies have said much more aid needs to enter.

Gaza, slightly more than twice the size of the city of Washington and home to 2.3 million people, has found itself on the brink of famine. More than 34,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the fighting began, local health authorities say.

On Sunday, Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said the amount of aid going into Gaza would continue to scale up.

“This temporary pier will provide a ship-to-shore distribution system that will further increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza,” he said in a statement.

However, high-ranking Hamas political official Khalil al-Hayya told the AP last week that the group would consider Israeli forces — or forces from any other country — stationed by the pier to guard it as “an occupying force and aggression,” and that the militant group would resist it.

On Wednesday, a mortar attack targeted the port site, though no one was hurt.

Associated Press writers Tara Copp and Lolita C. Baldor in Washington contributed to this report.

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Surrounded by Fighters and Haunted by Famine, Sudan City Fears Worst

A powerful paramilitary group has encircled El Fasher, the last remaining obstacle to domination of the sprawling Darfur region, raising alarm about mass killings if the city is taken.

By Declan Walsh

Reporting from Port Sudan on the Red Sea.

Fears of renewed ethnic slaughter in the Sudanese region of Darfur, where genocidal violence killed as many as 300,000 people two decades ago, have soared in recent days, with a looming assault on an embattled city that is already threatened by famine.

The contest for control of El Fasher, the last city held by Sudan’s military in Darfur, has prompted alarmed warnings from American and United Nations officials who fear that mass bloodshed may be imminent. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the U.S. envoy to the United Nations, told reporters on Monday that the city was “on the precipice of a large-scale massacre.”

El Fasher is the latest flashpoint in a year-old civil war between Sudan’s military and the Rapid Support Forces, a powerful paramilitary group that the military once nurtured and is now its bitter rival for power. The conflict has devastated one of Africa’s largest countries and created a vast humanitarian crisis that U.N. officials say is one of the biggest in decades.

The crisis also brings a sharp focus on the role of foreign powers accused of fueling the fight, especially the United Arab Emirates.

Since April 14, fighters loyal to the Rapid Support Forces, or R.S.F., have surrounded El Fasher in preparation for what the U.N. has called an “imminent assault.” El Fasher, the former capital of the precolonial kingdom of Darfur, has about 1.8 million inhabitants, including hundreds of thousands who fled earlier waves of fighting.

The city is the last obstacle to total R.S.F. domination of the region. Its fighters swept across Darfur last fall and now hold four of the region’s five major cities.

Control of El Fasher would give the group a block of territory that, combined with neighboring areas, covers about one-third of Sudan and would likely precipitate a shift in the course of the war. One feared scenario is that Sudan splits into rival fiefs as Libya did after the death of Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi in 2011.

SOUTH SUDAN

DEM. REP. OF CONGO

At least 43 people have been killed in El Fasher in recent weeks, including women and children, according to the United Nations, in skirmishes and bombings on the edge of the city that residents fear is just a taste of the violence to come.

“Everyone is expecting an attack at any moment,” Dawalbait Mohamed, an El Fasher resident who fled the city last year, and said he was in constant touch with his parents and siblings left behind. “It seems inevitable.”

In the early 2000s, when ethnic slaughter in Darfur was the focus of global attention, the worst atrocities were committed by the Janjaweed — a fearsome group of ethnic Arab fighters that later evolved into the Rapid Support Forces.

Before Sudan plunged into war, R.S.F. leaders had tried to shed their reputations for ruthlessness — although it returned in the past year, amid reports of massacres and looting.

Still, an assault on El Fasher would be risky for the Rapid Support Forces, and potentially costly, experts say. That gives hope to many Western and Arab officials, including some from the United States, that international pressure can still persuade both sides to back down and avert a calamity.

The United Nations Security Council held an emergency session on Monday to discuss the crisis behind closed doors.

After the session, Ms. Thomas-Greenfield said the United States was appealing to all countries — including the United Arab Emirates — to stop support for Sudan’s warring parties, warning that a “crisis of epic proportions is brewing.”

“As I’ve said before, history is repeating itself in Darfur in the worst possible way,” Ms. Thomas-Greenfield said.

Sudan and some U.N. officials say the Emirates has supplied the group with money and weapons; The New York Times reported last year on an Emirati weapons smuggling operation to the R.S.F. via eastern Chad.

The U.A.E. has denied any support to the Rapid Support Forces, mostly recently in a letter to the Security Council.

Sudan’s war, which passed the one-year mark on April 15, is escalating and expanding with dizzying speed.

A conflict that began as a power struggle between rival generals — the army chief, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the R.S.F. leader, Lt. Gen. Mohamed Hamdan — has devolved into a sprawling conflict that has drawn in ethnic, religious and rebel groups, on both sides, as well as an array of foreign sponsors.

On Monday, the Russian deputy foreign minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, was in Port Sudan for meetings with Sudanese military and civilian leaders. Russia’s Wagner group supplied missiles to the R.S.F. in the early weeks of the war. The Kremlin has long coveted access to the Red Sea in Sudan.

Elsewhere in Darfur, R.S.F. advances have been accompanied by widespread ethnic violence. U.N. investigators estimated that between 10,000 and 15,000 civilians were killed during an assault on the city of El Geneina, in west Darfur, last October. Most of the victims were from ethnic African groups long targeted by the Arab-dominated Rapid Support Forces. The total number of dead in the yearlong civil war is unknown.

Peace was holding in El Fasher, however, thanks to a local truce between the R.S.F. and other armed groups that surround the city. But that fragile deal crumbled in recent weeks as the Sudanese military persuaded or induced Darfuri groups to abandon their neutral stance, causing the R.S.F. to move in on the city.

The R.S.F. accuses the military of provoking the fight with aerial bombing of R.S.F. controlled areas that, in one case recently, led to the death of seven herders and an estimated 250 camels.

A starving population finds itself caught in the crossfire.

At the Zamzam camp, 10 miles south of El Fasher, 40 percent of children between 6 months and 2 years are severely malnourished, and one child dies every two hours, said Doctors Without Borders in February, calling it an “absolutely catastrophic situation.”

Yet both sides to the conflict are obstructing food aid, according to American and U.N. officials. Sudan’s military has forbidden the United Nations from bringing aid across from Chad except at the sole border crossing controlled by one of its allies.

And the R.S.F. has set up its own controls for foreign aid at Melit, a town just north of El Fasher, bringing deliveries of urgently needed aid to a virtual halt, said a senior U.N. official who could not be identified to avoid compromising aid operations.

Speaking by phone, El Fasher residents worried what would come next.

Shadia Ibrahim, a radio station technician, said she cowered in her home as fierce exchanges of gunfire erupted on Sunday east of the city. The electricity was out, and the prices of water and food were soaring, she said.

Ms. Ibrahim hoped the city would be spared the fate of Geneina, where battle was followed by slaughter. “We hope nothing like that happens here,” she said.

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Netanyahu vows to raid Rafah ‘with or without’ hostage deal

Mediators renew efforts to secure a truce ahead of invasion of city, where more than 1 million people are sheltering

Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that Israel will proceed with an offensive on the southern Gaza city of Rafah even if renewed efforts at internationally brokered talks with Hamas result in the release of hostages and a ceasefire.

Mediators led by Egypt have made fresh attempts to broker a truce in recent days after it became clearer that Israel is preparing for its long-threatened ground operation in Rafah . The city on the Egyptian border is the only part of the Palestinian territory that has not faced ground fighting, and more than half of the strip’s 2.3 million population has sought shelter there.

Speaking in Jerusalem on Tuesday, the Israeli prime minister said: “The idea that we will halt the war before achieving all of its goals is out of the question. We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate the Hamas battalions there – with or without a deal, in order to achieve total victory.”

This week’s talks in Cairo are widely viewed as the last opportunity to salvage a diplomatic solution to free Israeli hostages and a pause or end to the war. A Hamas delegation left the Egyptian capital on Monday, saying they would return again with a written response to Israel’s latest ceasefire proposal. On Tuesday, Israeli officials said they would wait for the Palestinian militant group’s response before sending a delegation.

Netanyahu’s latest comments, made during a meeting with members of two right wing groups representing hostage families and bereaved soldiers’ families, came hours before the arrival of the US secretary of state, Antony Blinken , on a visit to advance the truce talks. It was not immediately clear whether they would impact Hamas’s response.

Speaking in Jordan before flying to Israel, Blinken said the “focus” is on improving the humanitarian situation in Gaza and reaching a ceasefire deal that brings Israeli hostages home. He said Israel has offered a “strong proposal” and called on Hamas to respond.

“No more delays. No more excuses. The time to act is now,” he said. “We want to see in the coming days this agreement coming together.”

About 1,200 Israelis were killed and another 250 taken hostage in Hamas’s 7 October attack that triggered the war. More than 34,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s ensuing retaliatory operation in Gaza, which has left desperate civilians without healthcare, food or water and reduced most of the coastal territory to ruins.

A ceasefire at the end of November saw 100 hostages freed in exchange for about 240 Palestinian women and children held in Israeli jails, but collapsed after a week. Israel estimates that 129 hostages remain in Gaza, including 34 who are believed to be dead. Multiple rounds of talks over the past five months have ended in failure.

Netanyahu’s ministers have publicly sparred on whether to go forward with a truce proposal: far right members of his coalition have threatened to quit the government if Israel is seen to “surrender” to Hamas’s demands, while centrists have said they will quit if a hostage deal isn’t struck.

Despite optimistic comments from Egyptian officials, the two sides still appear to remain far apart on the same issues that have plagued the other rounds of negotiations: Hamas’s demand that Israeli troops completely withdraw from Gaza and end the conflict, and the numbers and identities of Palestinian prisoners to be released.

“We can’t tell our people the occupation will stay or the fight will resume after Israel regains its prisoners,” a Palestinian official from a group allied with Hamas told Reuters. “Our people want this aggression to end.”

Last week Hamas broadcast several proof-of-life videos of hostages, a move widely interpreted as a good faith gesture.

Israel – under domestic pressure over the fate of the hostages and facing international criticism over the humanitarian crisis its war has caused in Gaza – has made major compromises in the latest proposal. The amendments are believed to include: an initial release of just 33 hostages; willingness to discuss allowing displaced Palestinians to return to north Gaza; and a second phase of a truce that would involve a “period of sustained calm”.

Israel has repeatedly said a ground operation in Rafah, where it believes Hamas’s leadership and four battalions of fighters are camped out, is necessary to achieve “total victory” over the group. Israeli news site Ynet reported on Tuesday that the Israeli military has approved battle plans and is ready to push into Rafah within 72 hours if no deal is finalised.

But the long-threatened plan to attack the border town has drawn intense opposition from Israel’s allies, including the US, which says the overcrowded conditions could lead to thousands of civilian casualties as well as further disrupting aid deliveries entering from Egypt.

A spokesperson for the US state department said on Tuesday that Washington has not seen a credible Israeli plan for a military operation in Rafah that would address its concerns.

On Tuesday, UN aid chief Martin Griffiths warned that the Israeli assault on Rafah was “on the immediate horizon”, adding that a ground operation there would “be nothing short of a tragedy beyond words.”

António Guterres, the UN secretary-general, said there has been “incremental progress” toward averting “an entirely preventable, human-made famine” in the northern half of Gaza, but much more is urgently needed.

He specifically called on Israel to follow through on a promise to open “two crossing points between Israel and northern Gaza, so that aid can be brought from Ashdod port and Jordan.”

Blinken on Tuesday saw off a first Jordanian truck convoy of aid heading to Gaza through Erez, a crossing point on the strip’s northern border that before the war was the only civilian route between the Palestinian territory and Israel.

Meanwhile, the UK said it was not ready to restore funding to the Palestinian relief agency Unrwa and revealed it did not believe that the international criminal court had jurisdiction to issue arrest warrants against Israeli leaders for potential war crimes.

The foreign secretary, David Cameron, said no UK decision on restoring funding will be made until the outcome of a UN internal investigation into Israeli allegations that 12 Unrwa staff took part in the Hamas assault on 7 October. No deadline has been set for the end of the investigation that started as soon as allegations of Unrwa employee involvement was made in January.

Fifteen countries suspended funding in the wake of the allegations, but most have since restored that funding after the receipt of Unrwa assurances that it will strengthen its commitment to neutrality in line with a report published last week by the former French foreign minister, Catherine Colonna.

Cameron said the UK delay reflected concerns that Unrwa “is properly policed, properly run, with proper oversight and that its staff appropriately vetted, and what happened on October the 7th with their participation couldn’t happen again”.

• Israel-Gaza war
• Benjamin Netanyahu
• Palestinian territories

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