Program Reviews

This was my first time going abroad alone. I was really nervous before leaving because my English isn’t very good, and I was afraid of causing trouble for others. That nervousness stayed with me even until my second day in Portugal. I wasn’t familiar with the public transport there, and I felt like I messed up a lot of things.

Unlike others who get excited before starting a new experience, I mostly felt scared. I even wondered why I had made such a brave decision. But little by little, that nervousness melted away because of the warmth and kindness of the people around me.

At the hostel, I met sincere and talkative friends. During volunteering, I finally met staff who guided me patiently and helped me a lot. I could clearly feel that I was respected and treated equally. No one laughed at my broken English. That made me never regret my decision.

I often walked alone on the streets of Lisbon, enjoying the beauty of the city. Although the weather wasn’t great, I will always cherish the warmth and touching moments this experience brought me.

My time volunteering in Cape Town with IVHQ was truly life changing. Working with the children was the highlight. Their energy and resilience are unforgettable. The program also excels at fostering community. I met incredible people from around the world, and sharing a living space made the experience even richer. From impactful volunteer work to exploring the stunning city and coastline, every moment felt meaningful. I highly recommend this for anyone looking to give back and grow all whilst exploring a new place!

IVHQ provided in-depth information prior to our volunteer posting. This allowed us to fully prepare and take into consideration small elements that we may have overlooked, like cultue shock. Being aware allowed us to normalise the experience and feel supported. They also provided guidance and support with regards to volunteering with our 13 year old child. They ensured that he to was in an appropriate program with myself that would support his learning and well-being. IVHQ were also very clear about sleeping arrangements whilst on the program and they provided alternative accommodation to consider. .

I had an incredibly rewarding experience volunteering in childcare in Delhi, India. From the very beginning, the organisation was well-structured, supportive, and genuinely committed to making a positive impact on the local community.

The placement allowed me to work closely with children in a safe and nurturing environment, where I was involved in daily activities such as assisting with learning, playtime, and providing general care. It was both challenging and fulfilling, and it helped me develop important skills such as patience, adaptability, communication, and cultural awareness.

The house coordinators and caregivers were absolutely wonderful. They were kind, attentive, and always made me feel welcome and supported, creating a warm and comfortable home environment throughout my stay.

The local team and coordinators were always available to offer guidance, which made the overall experience even more meaningful. Being immersed in Indian culture, particularly in a city as vibrant and diverse as Delhi, was unforgettable and broadened my perspective both personally and professionally.

I would highly recommend this childcare volunteer programme to anyone looking to make a real difference while gaining valuable hands-on experience and cultural exposure.

It was my first volunteer abroad. I found IVHQ online and instantly believed and trusted the organization. The support I received from the preparation to my volunteering days were seamless. They are doing a noble job in connecting those who are looking to serve to those who are in need. I volunteered for 1 wk as I have limited days off work but I wish that someday I could do more. My accommodation was lovely, I met good people, both locals and volunteers alike. I have always wanted to serve and I may have found another way to do it. Thanks to IVHQ.

I spent two amazing weeks in the Galápagos volunteering at the Giant Tortoise Center in Isabela Island. The experience was truly unforgettable. I learned so much about the islands’ unique biodiversity and local culture by staying with at a local family and working with locals. The project was well organized, and I received great support from IVHQ and with its local partners throughout my stay. I am very grateful for this experience and I am already looking forward to my next volunteering project with them.

Volunteering with International Volunteer HQ alongside the incredible team at my placement in Kenya has been one of the most humbling and grounding experiences of my life. I arrived thinking I was coming to give time, energy, skills, support. What I didn’t expect was how much I would receive in return. Every day here has been a reminder of the power of dignity, resilience, and community. I have witnessed strength that doesn’t shout, hope that doesn’t give up, and kindness that shows up even when resources are limited. The people at the women's education placement lead with heart, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others not just for today, but for generations to come. This experience has slowed me down in the best possible way. It has invited me to listen more deeply, to be present, and to remember that real impact starts with human connection. The smiles, the conversations, the shared moments they stay with you. They change you. I am deeply grateful to IVHQ for creating a bridge that allows volunteers like me to step into meaningful, respectful, community-led work. And I am endlessly thankful to my placement in Kenya for welcoming me with open arms and trusting me to be part of their story, even for a short time. This is not a trip I will “return from” unchanged. It is an experience I will carry forward into my work, my relationships, and how I show up in the world. Thank you for reminding me that service is not about saving, it’s about standing beside, learning together, and honoring the shared humanity that connects us all.

I joined the WE program in Kochi for 2 weeks and loved the experience. The Computer Literacy class to women between 25 to 35 years made a real impact. The English Language class to Montessori Teaches showed how bright and enthusiastic the women were. The staff were super friend and the connection with the other volunteers made me feel right at home. The social activities were fun and enhanced the experience. I'd recommend this experience to anyone wanting to make a worthwhile contribution in a foreign land.

An amazing and rewarding experience. Working in childcare and visiting the local school was incredibly special and eye-opening. The children’s joy, resilience and eagerness to learn, despite limited resources, was truly inspiring. Everything was well organised, allowing us to feel supported and fully present throughout the trip. The millions of connections made with the children, teachers, local community and fellow volunteers made this experience unforgettable and something I will always be grateful for.

I’m so glad I found IVHQ everyone was so welcoming and helpful with questions. I will be booking another volunteer trip through them in the future. It was a really nice way to travel as a solo female in a safe way and to be able to meet people and make a difference along the way. The experience was incredible and I learned a lot through my travel and volunteering experience and interaction with questions and other things I wasn’t accustomed to. Everything they had planned for us was safe and well thought out.