Program Reviews

The headquarters and local team were so supportive. I felt like I had someone to talk to if I had issues or questions. The meals and accommodation were great and the people were so friendly and kind. I was very happy with my volunteer placement and the people I met will stay in my heart forever. I worked with wonderful volunteers. The IVHQ team was very responsive and helpful for all my needs and questions. It was my favorite volunteer trip so far. My only fear is I'm not sure how my next trip could top this one.

I volunteered in the Philippines for 2 weeks teaching English to kindergarten and Grade 3 kids. This experience was definitely the most humbling experience I have had so far in my life. Philippines is such a beautiful country with even more beautiful people. I was blessed to have such a lovely placement and meet such amazing people. I have made friends for life who I will sure meet up with when I travel to their countries. My coordinator was lovely and the local team were supportive and all amazing. I recommend this to anyone.

My Experience Volunteering with IVHQ in the Philippines was a time I will never forget. From the moment I landed I felt like I was home, like I belonged. I am already a hands on type of person and I fix cars for a living, so being able to learn how the people of the Philippines fix, build, and create their own tools with the resources they have was everything. I love helping people. Being able to serve people in Philippines and seeing the instant impact meant so much to me. The coordinator and staff in the Philippines made everything so seamless and fun. They are very hospitable, friendly, attentive and make the volunteer experience all around enjoyable, happy, and safe. Volunteering in the Philippines was the best decision I have ever made. I cannot wait to go back. The Philippines stole my heart. Mahal Kita Philippines.

I’ve been traveling the world since I was three years old and I’ve seen a lot of unique places. But I quickly learned that there is absolutely nothing more fulfilling than to volunteer your time globally with children, adults, and/or animals in need. It’s a life-changing experience for both yourself and those you are directly helping.

For many years, I’ve wanted to volunteer in India with children. I spent a great deal of time researching various volunteer organizations and NGO’s, looking for the right opportunity. During my extensive research, I was highly recommended to take my next journey with International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) and it was nothing short of an incredible experience! Probably the most meaningful travel experience of my life!

During March 2024, I spent two inspiring weeks in Delhi and Faridabad, India — volunteering at a slum school, teaching children from the ages of 5-11 years old. It truly doesn’t get more meaningful than that! I taught English and helped the children with their homework, crafts, reading, math, and games. I also helped the school principal and their local teachers with various activities and structural needs. I chose to embark also on IVHQ’s “Intro Week” and it was the ideal way to become familiar with the Hindi language, Indian culture, traditional cuisine, and Delhi’s most beautiful landmarks and temples. I was lucky enough to celebrate Holi ('Festival of Colors’), their yearly Hindu festival of colors celebrating love, Spring, and Hindu mythology.

Our hostel felt more like a traditional Indian home (which I loved), and I was so grateful to have experienced Delhi with such an amazing group of volunteers from around the world. Living with others creates another dynamic and unique experience… for you’re never alone, or unsure of the next activity or your daily schedule. The Indian local team also created such a warm and culturally expansive living environment. You are cared for, and driven safely to/from your volunteer assignment and all over Delhi if you choose their “Intro Week.” For I miss them greatly! Their homemade Indian meals (3x a day) were absolutely delicious and their assistance, support and suggestions made this trip profoundly impactful.

The entire planning process and experience with IVHQ and the local Indian team felt easy and well-organized. I couldn’t be happier with my first experience in India and there is no doubt in my mind I will visit again! In fact, I’ve already begun planning a new IVHQ trip for next year!

In February 2024, I embarked on my first ever solo travel adventure - Volunteering in Tanzania for a month with IVHQ. I loved every minute of my time in Africa, the local team and coordinators were very kind and incredibly helpful! The accommodation was good, and the all of the staff, especially the "Mamas" at the house were incredibly friendly and very welcoming. There were lots of extra activities to do in the evening and the 4 day safari in the Serengeti is an experience I will never forget!
I can't wait for my next adventure with IVHQ and would highly recommend them to anyone thinking of volunteering abroad.

I thought I might be to old for this (I am 65). I was wrong. I was the oldest on our team and it was so much fun interacting with the younger people, it gave my new perspective on a lot of things going on in the world. Witnessing the turtles lay eggs was amazing. This program survives with the volunteer program due to lack of funding. The support team was awesome and I felt safe the entire time I was there. I got the international plan with my phone and it worked great everywhere I went. If you are thinking about going, do it now - life is short.

I could not recommend volunteering abroad enough. It was such a great experience and truly has changed my view on the world. It is such an eye opening experience that pushes you outside of your comfort zone in all the best ways. It allows you to branch out from what you are used to and gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture and learn more about yourself while getting the chance to meet so many amazing people. I felt so included everywhere I went and have gained so much confidence from this trip. I hope everyone gets the chance to be involved in an experience like this because it truly is life changing and will give you such a greater appreciation for life itself.

Volunteering within special needs communities offers a transformative journey of empathy, resilience, and societal impact. Engaging in activities that support individuals with diverse challenges fosters personal growth, cultivates essential life skills, and contributes to building more inclusive societies. Embrace the opportunity to make meaningful connections and foster a culture of acceptance and belonging.By volunteering with special needs populations, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while also gaining valuable insights and experiences that can enrich your own life. I will be forever thankful for this opportunity.

This is my 3rd trip with IVHQ and that speaks volumes. Right from when you sign up, you get immediate support and assistance. Once you get to the country you are volunteering in, as a solo female traveler, you feel safe and comfortable with the help and organization they provide. All the lovely people I have met at the local placements have been wonderful and helpful. Food is always delicious (one of my favorite parts!) and the added excursions in some of these trips are fantastic!!! I am already planning my 4th and 5th trips.

If you want to go on a trip that will transform your life for the better, enhance your understanding of the world, help people in need and make unbreakable connections, then IVHQ Ghana is the trip for you!
The team there treat you like family. They cook with love, tell you about the best sites to see, share aspects of their culture to you with detail, help you get the best price for whatever you need and so much more. Also the team prior to departure provide you with all the support you need. I needed to arrive early due to flight scheduling and they made that happen in such a stress free way. My recent trip with IVHQ was my second! I can’t wait for third trip and the many more after that!