International Volunteer HQ - IVHQ

I’m a first-time volunteer to a foreign country and naturally, I was very anxious and nervous to do something that I don’t know. But, from the time I decided to go through with the program, to the requirements and all preparations given, to meeting the local Romanian team, to experiencing the work I had to do for my placement and up until the time I had to leave...I was only made to feel cared for and safe the entire time, by every single person involved with IVHQ and the Care2Travel (local IVHQ team). I only had a week even, but it felt like a month because there was always something to do and there was never a boring time. We even had the chance to meet and interact with the locals, which was such a nice experience, specially getting to know their history and culture. Plus, I had the opportunity to see one of the highest points in Romania in it’s beautiful autumn weather! I was certainly able to do two things I like all at the same time and in such an affordable price. With the fee I paid for, I had absolutely no problem with the accommodations, the supply of food and had so much more extra pocket money left for mini-tours and souvenirs to bring back home. All worth the decision to go and all worth the time spent each day being there. I did not expect how organized and professional the whole process was from start to finish and I have no doubts at all in recommending to volunteer thru IVHQ to anyone—specially choosing Romania. It is not a country that most people would even think of visiting but it surely was worth looking into the first time I saw it on the list of available programs I wanted. (ie, agriculture). Personally, it is the perfect place and the best team to take on a first-time volunteer. I can’t say that my short stay has allowed me to change the world with the help I did. But...it has given me a good taste of volunteering and it is why I am considering on doing this often—maybe then, I’ll get a chance to change the world a little bit more each time.

This program was wonderful. Starting from the pickup at the airport, everything was taken care of. This was my first volunteer trip with IVHQ and it will not be my last. I made so many friends in this program. I recommend to anyone looking for an affordable and impactful way to travel!

All of the staff that I encountered were wonderful and the homestay felt very safe and welcoming. I was conveniently located just a few blocks from the town square as well. As for excursions, the staff was more than willing to make recommendations. I ended up doing a day trip to Machu Picchu through America Inca Trail. As for my volunteer placement, our staff member showed us how to use the public bus system in order to get there and made sure we knew what was expected of us. This was a great time!

Working with the amazing Maximo Nivel staff and patients of Virgen del Socorro this past August has been such a wonderful and eye-opening experience for me. I am honored to have been a part of such a beneficial and rewarding program. I have made so many incredible and unforgettable memories and have many, many great stories to tell to my friends and family. The host family I stayed with was so sweet and caring, and the food was amazing! There were many options for those with dietary restrictions and allergies, and I had the opportunity to try many new traditional meals. I always felt safe, as long as I was with someone else, and was able to take advantage of the many social events and night programs offered through Maximo, such as salsa lessons! I look forward to returning in the near future!

Teaching in Bali, Lovina is a very unforgettable experience in my life. Lovina is really really beautiful! The children(so lovely~) in Bali really need us, they need more fresh and valuable things to get through their childhood. And in other part, you can have a chance to communicate with so many different people around the world through hiqv program. you will have a good time there! The food is good and clean and it's always enough for you if you want more. The local team members are really nice. They always try to make you feel comfortable, if you have any question, they will be there anytime to support you. bali lovina is a really dream place!

Its a bit cliche, I know, but going overseas to be a service to the outside world set me on a new path in life. One that has let me see the positive and optimistic side of life. Going to volunteer in Costa Rica instilled a confidence in me of people's true proclivity for good and helping the world around them. It was through IVHQ that I was able to fulfill this life-long desire of mine to be a positive influence beyond my local sphere. From the staff, the amenities, and events - everything was exactly what I needed it to be. I will, for the rest of my life, look back on my experience as a such a positive influence on a better life! Honestly, I have had many amazing experiences but there is just something unsaid and special about volunteering. Perhaps it was just a case of right place, right time. Now its just a matter of when I get back for round 2.