Volunteer Abroad Programs – Ages 16+

Beyond tourism: The experience of a lifetime
Greenheart Travel’s Volunteer Abroad programs combine rewarding service work with unmatched opportunities to learn about fascinating cultures from the inside, as you never could through the windows of a tour bus. 

Volunteer Abroad: Travel with a purpose
Whether you teach English to schoolchildren in Ghana, plant trees in Costa Rica or volunteer with the disabled in Argentina, you will come away with unforgettable memories of the people whose lives you have affected and the sense of fulfillment that comes from donating your time to a meaningful service project.

"My experience with Greenheart Travel was that they were there for me every step of the way, and I knew exactly what to expect. I have traveled a lot, and never felt so taken care of before by an agency." - Joy Bautista, Volunteer in the Galapagos Islands  Read more comments from Greenheart Travel Volunteers

An authentic cultural experience
Volunteering abroad immerses you in another culture as you live and work among the local people and become a part of their community. You’ll make lasting friendships and connect on a personal level with people you might otherwise never have the chance to meet. And you will still have plenty of free time to explore your fascinating host country.

"It was a wonderful trip and we all had a wonderful time! Thank you so much. The host family was definitely what made it absolutely wonderful. They are great!! We will definitely miss them. -Angela Fuller, Teen Volunteer in Costa Rica 

Who can volunteer abroad?
Volunteers are all ages and come from all walks of life: college students seeking to enhance their resumes, retirees looking for a way to “give back,” or working professionals ready for a break from the 9 to 5 routine. While the minimum age requirement for most programs is 18, we do offer programs for teens ages 16 and up in Costa Rica and Ecuador.

No experience or special skills are required--just enthusiasm, an open mind, and a genuine desire to help.

Is housing provided?
Local accommodation is included, generally with host families. Housing may also be in nearby apartments or on-site facilities, depending on the project.

Local Support
Our international volunteers benefit from a comprehensive support network both within the U.S and abroad. Experienced Greenheart Travel staff assist you with questions and concerns as you prepare for your adventure abroad, while our overseas partner organizations provide in-country support throughout your stay. 

 Volunteer Abroad Program Fees

Are my program fees tax-deductible?
CCI and Greenheart Travel are a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. A portion of the program fee for your Volunteer Abroad program may be tax-deductible. Contact us for more information.

Travel Arrangements and Visas
We will inform you of your travel and visa requirements. All travel and visa arrangements are your responsibility, but need to be booked according to our instructions.

Program Includes:

• Placement with a volunteer project that matches your abilities and interests
• Full medical and accident insurance
• Local accommodation and meals** 
• Orientation upon arrival
• 24-hour support of in-country staff
  **Some meals are not included in some destinations

Program Does Not Include:

• Airfare and ground transportation
• Public transportation to/from volunteer site if necessary
• Immunization costs (if needed)
• Visa processing fees (if needed)
• Personal expenses and incidentals

On your application, you should indicate your preferred country location and project type, but please be aware that project type is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. Applicants must be prepared to accept placement in any type of volunteer project.

Program Length and Dates
Volunteer programs are typically available for 2 to 12 weeks year round. In general, you may choose your own start and end dates, although dates are subject to availability.

Application Deadlines
Applications are due at least 8 weeks (2 months) before your desired start date. We may be able to accommodate late applications in some cases. Please contact us for details.