Program Reviews

I would just like to start this review with the most important message in this writing. If you are on the fence about doing this program, please do it. One of my main concerns about this trip was my Spanish speaking ability. Once you get settled in you soon realize that if you are having trouble with a language barrier, there are many kind people around you that can help you translate. Words can’t describe how much of a blessing this trip was for me. I enjoyed every second of every minute of my time in the D.R . I adored every moment from hanging out with the locals, to getting to know the councilors, to even helping out clean the house with my peers. This trip helped me out tremendously mentally as well as physically and socially. I personally made special connections with a bunch of the little kids as well as the older kids in the local town that I will cherish forever. It really made a difference to me that the same local kids I would be hanging out with and joking amongst with, were the same kids we were helping to build the school for. All in all, the special memories we all created with each other, will be memories that will last a life time and I would do this trip over and over again if I could. I also want to leave a special thanks to Georgia, Luis, Sammy, Meg, Leyri and Larry for keeping all of us safe and taken care of during our time on the trip! Thank you all.

I had the absolute best time on the Montana farm and ranch program this summer in July! We went white water rafting, rock climbing, and did a number of service projects at non-profits and farms in the area. I came home with a deep knowledge of agriculture, the talks were amazing. The leaders were absolutely fantastic and the farm was incredible. I met some of the coolest people from all over, and was able to spend time with animals too. I loved going to Rocky Creek and working there, we harvested and planted and met some amazing young people. I loved working on the chicken coop and greenhouse at the VISIONS Farm, and hanging out in the loafing shed and playing cards. Dave was a fantastic head of program, and all of the leaders were such cool people. While I loved the amazing backpacking trip in the Crazy Mountains and all of the other cool hikes we did, being able to shop in downtown Bozeman was also awesome. The one critique I have is that I wish we could have visited Yellowstone which was so close, and done all of the things advertised on the website, like the bison harvest and more talks with local farmers. We went to a hot springs and went swimming, along with Bozeman beach. I loved visiting the horticulture garden at MSU and all of the other farms in the area, like Barney Creek Livestock and Farm 51. We had a textile workshop, and also went to a wool mill. I am so grateful for this amazing experience from VISIONS, thanks a million!! Definitely recommend if you are looking for an amazing time in the summer!

I went into the Montana Roots Gap Program hoping to learn about the world around me and ways that I can contribute to give back. As it turned out, I ended up learning about sustainable practices and we focused a lot of time learning about ecosystems. It was all very interesting and inspired me to want to live better! We met a lot of guest speakers who shared their knowledge with us and we got to partake in unique activities that I otherwise would not have had the chance to! One of the best parts of the program became apparent by the end - I had met so many awesome people and became friends with the other students. We were like our own little family.

I really enjoyed the outdoor adventure components, like the backpacking trip and other hikes. Getting out to enjoy nature in responsible ways was really a highlight. We also took a course to get Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications, which is never a bad thing to have under your belt.

This program gave me the opportunity to live life for a while in a manner that I had never experienced before. It was a challenge at first, but soon became part of my everyday routine. It was an eye opener and I couldn't be more thankful for all that I'd learned and experienced.

I had a great time in Alaska last summer thanks to VISIONS. Not only did I have the chance to get familiar with building and meet amazing people, both locals and volunteers, but I also grew as a person. Meeting with the local population and getting to know their culture/lifestyle was definitely a highlight of my trip. I still remember the ice climbing, canoeing, and camping trip, and now have many amazing memories to look back on. Would definitely recommend it to any high schooler looking for a summer camp/program.

I spent a summer with VISIONS on the British Virgin Islands. I had the chance to spend time hanging out with the locals, trying new things, and most importantly help out the community. Till today I still have the contact of the friends i made on the island. Food was great i get to try the food made by a local lady everyday that I have never tried any else where. Besides the cultural experiences I also scuba dived for the first time in my life with them. The staffs are very helpful and open-minded, they are people that you can count on. Honestly one of the best experiences I’ve had.

I had the most amazing summer last year thanks to Visions which helped me become a more empathetic and compassionate person. Visions combines making its groups help others and themselves through both community service, and sessions in which the group reflects on the program and themselves. I truly believe that this program can help improve all teenager's lives around the world and I fully recommend it to anyone looking for both an amazing experience, and community service hours. Thank you Visions.

I could not have asked for a better summer in Peru. The trip was life changing such that it exposed me to meaningful service and introduced me to new ways of life. Visions is a great balance between working, exploring, socializing, and stepping outside of one's comfort zone. I could not have asked for a better experience. I strongly recommend Visions to anyone who loves the outdoors and is looking for a down-to-earth experience. Also... the food in Peru is amazing... but warning: guinea pig may or may not be on the menu! It was so fun getting to try out my Spanish.

It was hands down one of the coolest things I’ve ever done fro eating a rat going to a local markets and see the many historical sights. I will never forget the people of Cambodia and the locals who helped our group. My job there was building a bathroom and teaching English at a school and I would say it was one of the most rewarding experiences and if you love to travel Make friends and see things many tourists don’t then this program is for you one of the best experiences I’ve ever had will never forget it.

It was was easier to make friends than I thought. It was so easy to find someone who shared the same interests as you and it is really is a place where you can open up and be yourself. As well as a full cultural émersion we were still able to connect with the other volunteers and make plans to see each other and keep in touch after the program. The staff were wonderful and we really came together as a family. We overcame some minor difficulties stronger than before and it will always be one of my favorite summers.

From the beginning of my journey with Visions, I knew that I was part of something special; something bigger than myself. All of the leaders were amazing, and worked tirelessly to make our experience extraordinary. Additionally, all of the other volunteers were some of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.
The living conditions are simple but comfortable, the bunks have functional sinks and showers, and the main house has a full kitchen, as well as a living room for the volunteers to hang out in.
The community service work was truly one-of-a-kind. Whether it was building a porch for a community elder, or woking with the local children during youth day, everyone worked hard and saw it pay off. One of the most rewarding parts of the experience was seeing the gratitude from the community members.
Our weekends were used as days to explore the community; to hike, camp, shop, swim, and more. For example, we had a three day hiking trip, where we had the pleasure of hiking to a camp site, swimming in a lake, and hiking some more, while bonding with the other members of our team.
We also had the privilege to witness some community festivals and events. Our group was given the opportunity to watch the Sundance, a special four-day-long event where there was singing, dancing, and special offerings were brought; a pow wow, where there were special dancers, as well as delicious treats; and sleep in tipees set up by community elders outside of our ranch.
This summer is a summer that I will never forget. I truly appreciate the opportunity to help others in need, while also having an incredible time and remarkable experience.