Program Reviews

From beginning to end this program was well run, organized, highly professional and effective. I felt safe, welcome and that my time made a difference. IVHQ is a great way to learn about the people and life of a new country while at the same time growing your confidence, resume and language skills.

Thinking about the type of work you may want to experience and plan accordingly. It is helpful to ask questions so you may arrive prepared and with appropriate clothing for the work. Learning a little about the culture ahead of time can also be very helpful, especially things like foods, meal times, money and family or cultural dos and months.
Ask lots of questions go with an open mind and be flexible.
Have fun!

IVHQ has projects in many countries. I wanted to travel to Africa not as a tourist but to see the ‘other side of Africa.’ I choose wildlife conservation in Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. I found the program was run very professionally. Each day we had meaningful work tasks and a chance to learn from our excellent guides balanced with personal downtime to explore and share our time with the other volunteers. I learnt that stepping out of my comfort zone enabled me to grow a person and found I was up for the challenge. Volunteering is a wonderful way to travel with a purpose and I left knowing that I left something positive behind.

First of, let me say that I wish I had stayed longer! I feel that everything about this experience makes you want to stay longer, return to Argentina, and help others in need. I loved my stay. It’s a 10/10. I was placed at a center that supports the adult special needs community. Everything about this center was wonderful. They are currently in need of a lot of financial support for sustainability purposes! So, if anyone knows of philanthropic organizations that supports internationally, please connect them to OTIUM for support. Their strength is the human element. So, I was able to see first hand the level of love and care present in all the interactions between staff members and participants- and for that I will be eternally grateful. Thank you for providing me with an opportunity to further my career experience, but mostly for the opportunity!

This experience was truly incredible and unforgettable. From start to finish, everything was thoughtfully organized, and I felt supported every step of the way. The coordinators and local team were absolutely fantastic—always helpful, friendly, and enthusiastic. I met amazing people, immersed myself in a new culture, and created memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I’m so grateful for this journey! i had the best time of my life and im counting down the days until i can do something like this again. I would recommend this to anyone

After spending three months in Tanzania, I had the opportunity to get to know the community better and understand how I could contribute more effectively with the skills I had to offer. It was a beautiful experience and I feel truly happy seeing how much the children enjoyed learning through different methodologies. The teachers' willingness to collaborate as a team was inspiring and the whole experience was incredibly enriching for me as well. I’ve learned so much and I’m taking all of these meaningful moments and lessons back home with me.

The local team has been amazing. Always easy to reach them and willing to help you in any matter.

This was a great experience for me! I grew so much and I felt empowered! The program only requires you to volunteer for 5 hours a day so prepare for downtime! You will have plenty of time to explore the city/country and try lots of food before and after your volunteering. If you are going by yourself, there are a lot of others there also by themselves who would love company! I made some amazing friends! It is scary when you first get there before your orientation, but be brave! If you feel scared or have questions, ask the Local Team, they are very helpful and they want you to have a good experience. At my volunteer placement, there were frequently people from the Local Team in and out making sure I was doing okay. Expect the unexpected! The trip wasn't exactly what I pictured in my head, but it never is! Be ready to be flexible! Overall, it was great and I learned so much!

Volunteering through IVHQ in the Philippines was one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences I’ve ever had. I joined the healthcare project and spent my time supporting local clinics and learning firsthand about the challenges and strengths of the Philippine healthcare system. From day one, I felt welcomed, safe, and supported — both by the IVHQ team and the amazing local staff on the ground.

One of the most impactful parts of the program was how involved and attentive the local team in the Philippines was. They made sure we had everything we needed, checked in regularly, and were always available for questions or concerns. Their dedication to both the volunteers and the local communities made the entire experience more meaningful and effective.

During the placement, I worked alongside local healthcare professionals and had the chance to assist with basic medical tasks, help with health education, and observe procedures. The staff were incredibly generous with their knowledge and always encouraged us to learn and participate. I also gained a deeper appreciation for the resilience and resourcefulness of the medical teams working in sometimes limited conditions.

Beyond the work itself, the people I met — both locals and fellow volunteers — made the experience unforgettable. Also the living arrangements and meals were really nice.

I highly recommend the IVHQ Philippines healthcare program to anyone looking to make a difference while gaining valuable insight into global healthcare. You’ll give a lot — but you’ll receive even more in return.

IVHQ was super well organized. I felt safe at all times and everything was planned through. They really make for a stress free trip. I completely fell in love with the organization and the people working for them, I would definetly book with IVHQ again. You get the real full experience and you get to explore as much as you want. I met amazing people, got fully emerged in the culture and everything was fantastic! This experience really touched my heart and I don’t think ill ever be able to forget this trip.

The first thing I can say about IVHQ is that they facilitated the best experience of my life. The time between applying to the program and actually travelling was nearly 2 years, and the team were incredible. Any questions/concerns were answered in depth and quickly, and I attended a couple of the online sessions, which were incredibly informative. While in Vietnam, the local team were incredible, supportive and treated everyone like family. I genuinely couldn't have had a better experience and would recommend it to anyone and everyone!

Pay your fees, get your shots, and IVHQ will take care of all the stressful stuff so you can focus on fully immersing yourself into one of the most beautiful experiences of your life! I volunteered on the construction project in Tanzania and couldn't be happier! The volunteering was worthwhile, essential, and allowed me to truly dive into the local scene and culture and associate with the people of the country. I helped finish the construction of a home that will serve a family for generations to come! While renovating a school bathroom I was able to associate with the kids as well. Those were the most genuine smiles I've ever seen and shared! I was also able to take advantage of a safari and create unforgettable memories! I was also able to spend time with the kids at a local orphanage. The fellow volunteers and local organization coordinators of Tanzanian Host Experience were incredibly caring and thoughtful of my wellbeing. They were some of the most heart-filled people I have ever met! As a solo traveler they quickly became like family. Initially, it was nerve racking to embark on this journey but then SO sad to leave when my time was up. This experience was a true reminder of what actually matters in life and where real happiness is found. It was transformative. I am forever grateful! Overall, if you are reading this and questioning whether or not to go and volunteer, take it from me, this was the best few weeks of my life! So take courage and go for it! You will not regret it for a moment. Asante!