Program Reviews

Traveling with Cross Cultural Solutions truly was an unforgettable experience! Working with the children of Tecpan, Guatemala has changed my life completely. They touched my heart and help me to become not only more appreciative of the little things in life, but they showed me how to get more from life. I am now so grateful for all that I have, and I find myself to be simply a happier person. The staff members also made it very difficult for me to leave, as I grew so close to them in such a short period of time. They were all very warm and caring, and above all else they made me feel like I was apart of the family.

The program effectively balances a genuine immersion into the Guatemalan culture with a strong emphasis on safety. Virginia and co. truly make the volunteers a part of their family - I was truly spoiled. With a security guard on staff 24 hours per day, the home base was a welcome oasis on Septima Avenida in Guatemala City. I have grown to appreciate many little things that I take for granted in the United States. Every volunteer has a different experience, and the staff is more than eager to make sure everyone is able to take something away from their program.

No matter how many pictures and videos you see, they will not do Lake Atitlan and Tikal justice. I was able to see every tourist attraction on my list, while still managing to budget time for a rewarding volunteer experience. I've often read that the best volunteer programs follow the rule of thirds - 1/3 volunteer, 1/3 cultural, and 1/3 free time. This program follows that structure admirably.

As I set off ,I was a little apprehensive. I suppose of the unexpected. But it took me no time too feel very comfortable at the home-base and work sight. The staff are very friendly and supportive and the kids are just too much--very friendly and heart warming. I would not change a thing.

CCS is the best way to experience India. I learned so much about the people, religions, customs, food and everyday living. Helping the young women learn computer skills and conversational English was rewarding. I continue to connect with one of the ladies via facebook. The staff was very supportive and offered great suggestions to enhance our experience. All of the people who volunteered during the time I was there were great to share this experience with.

I don't really know where to start other than to say I had the most amazing experience. The work the volunteers do is changing lives, and this experience was no exception. At the time I felt I wasn't making a big contribution but on reflection I realised that every little helps. The staff at home base were awesome, so helpful. And the nuns at MotherTeresa work tirelessly and taught me a lot. I would recommend volunteering to everyone of any age.

I spent three weeks in Bangkok as a volunteer with Cross Cultural Solutions. The CCS staff in Bangkok was excellent, very knowledgable and always ready to make extra effort on behalf of the volunteers. My placement at a local primary school was perfect, challenging but not overwhelming. The teachers and staff were welcoming, and the kids loved having volunteers in the classrooms. The program provides an impressive array of organized outings for the volunteers, as well as plenty of time left open for exploring or relaxing. Highly recommended.

I never thought winter could be so good. Being from Chicago Illinois, where winter is temp below 0c. I experienced winter in Cape Town, South Africa with temperatures about like our fall. Now, in the morning it took a bit to get use to. But, I came to appreciate layering on clothes, and getting to the daycare center where I volunteered and looking at the children how they were layered in their sweaters, tights, pants, and jackets. And, they never complained just laughed and smiled. When it rained and the water prevented us from going outside. They were content and happy to be inside. I complement Gertie's Creche and Mama Nozi and her team of teachers on their excellence in teaching, discipline and preparing meals. I learned that we are all very rich just in different ways. Those kids are very rich in love, joy and what will really change the world their outlook. I learned it doesn't matter what language you speak, as long as you smile and hug a child they will understand you care.

I loved my 3 weeks in Peru. We spent our time working in a kindergarten caring for impoverished children under the age of 5, giving them love and one on one attention and care. In the three weeks I was there, I fell in love with the kids and was sad to go. I wish I had done longer. The home base was super nice and all of the staff were incredible. I definitely recommend it to anyone considering it.

From mid-June to late-July I spent a month volunteering with CCS in Ghana. It was the best experience, and trip of my life. I taught kindergarten-1 at a local school and orphanage in Hohoe, and I gained so much perspective and knowledge from the children about their culture, customs, and lives. Besides teaching at the school, I also was able to climb the tallest mountain in Ghana, learn how to weave Kente Cloth, visit the capitol of Ghana, Accra, and so much more.
One thing I would have to say is that I wasn't informed about teaching at the local school and orphanage until a couple days before I left. Some of the other volunteers during my stay didn't have the same intentions and values as the rest of the volunteers and I for the duration of our time in Ghana. Overall, the program is absolutely life changing and I hope to visit the children that I became close with, and also the ones who I gave an impact to.

Going on the trip to Tecpan, Guatemala is one of the best opportunities i have ever received. The biggest highlight was teaching at the school, the kids reminded me to not judge by a cover and to be grounded. While being their not being able to use wifi and to have to actually rely on my own intelligence, i believe i gained back some of the brain cells i lost being caught up in the materialistic and virtual world that existed around me back home.