Volunteer Programs for over 40s | 50+ destinations | Most Affordable & Trusted

IVHQ has a really well designed website that allowed me to research and consider many projects all around the world. Once signed up, they provided detailed and specific project information, organizational support, preparation materials, and coordination with the local program (Maximo Nivel), making the process of planning and preparing for the trip relatively straightforward. They led me step-by-step in collecting all of the necessary paperwork, insurance, etc., and had a nearly seamless hand-off to the local coordinators. The local organization in Costa Rica, provided excellent support and service. I don't think a novice volunteer traveller could have had a better support system. I felt safe, supported, and well prepared. (And I loved the project I worked on - it was just as described.) I will definitely use them for future volunteer travel.

Date of experience: May 28, 2023

I travelled to Phnom Penh, Cambodia in May 2019 for four weeks. I volunteered on the special needs project and was placed in a primary school outside the city. I volunteered in the special needs classroom there, where there was about 15 children ages 5-21 with a variety of cognitive and/or physical disabilities. There are not many opportunities for children (or adults) with disabilities to receive an education, so this classroom was very unique in that the teachers did everything they could to support the children and give them a place to learn and grow. I was fortunate enough to provide my knowledge and skills as a student in OT school to the children and staff members so they had a better idea on what activities and strategies to use for the children. This experience was so eye opening and allowed me to take a step back from my busy life and appreciate all that I have back in my home country. I cannot wait to volunteer through IVHQ again in the future as this experience was so life changing and amazing.

I had a fantastic experience during my time in Cambodia! This was my first time volunteering so I didn't know what to expect, but by the end of it I was extremely satisfied.
I was in the teaching program, and it was a very fulfilling undertaking, with my only regret being that I wasn't there longer. The kids, the resident teachers, the staff, my fellow volunteers; everyone was amazing!
IVHQ did a great job organising everything, and all went smoothly. Definitely recommend!

I had an unforgettable experience volunteering in Cambodia with IVHQ! I worked at a school with children. The children are so full of warmth, so dynamic, and so loving. Their eagerness to learn made teaching them an invaluable experience that I can honestly say was the best thing I have ever done! With three classes that I saw every day, I can only say how keen these children are to learn English and how much curiosity they have about the world. Spending some time abroad and experiencing how people live in a different country is an impressive and very enriching experience. I was moved by how happy and friendly people can be when they have so little. After meeting new people, getting accustomed to their lifestyle, and learning through experience, I can definitely say this trip contributed to my world education and understanding of another culture, challenged my personal limits, and developed new friendships. IVHQ made it incredibly simple for me to sign up for my program and I am hoping to take another volunteer trip soon.
Thank you IVHQ for this memorable experience. I will definitely volunteer with you again.