The Food Outreach IVHQ Program was life-changing for me. Seeing the difference the kitchen was making by feeding over 500 people a day was truly inspiring. I would highly recommend this program to anyone.

Although I was traveling solo, I quickly made lifelong friends with so many people from all over the world. I cannot wait to return to Saigon.

IVHQ made the whole experience easy for me. There are so many different opportunities all over the world to choose from. Once you decide on a location and program everything is sorted.

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 did two weeks in a food kitchen in Vietnam which was absolutely incredible and worked out better than I could ever have imagined.. The co-ordinations were really helpful, friendly and supportive, and always on hand to help with anything at all. It was hard work but really rewarding and I felt I made a real difference. Starting just before 7am and finishing at 1/1.30 meant I had the rest of the day to go and explore Ho Chi Minh City which I loved and felt really safe. Even went to Cambodia to see Angkor Wat on my middle weekend. Would absolutely recommend and I’m looking forward to my next adventure with IVHQ.😊

IVHQ did a great job from start to finish. Their pre-trip guide provided information specific to the location, contacts, travel/visa/immunizations and accommodations.

Arrival was very smooth and coordinated, with the local staff being very welcoming and patient during the check-in and indoctrination. Support during the stay was provided by local representatives for each of the volunteer activities. Meals, amenities and recommendations for off-time activities were perfect, providing positive local experiences. Each of my volunteer assignments with IVHQ over the past several years have made this at a minimum, a definite annual event. Every location to date has provided nothing but positive and rewarding experiences!

The depth and sincerity of my experience—and the significant impact it had on my spiritual growth—were shaped by the warm hospitality I received, clear and open communication, and the genuine dedication from everyone to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Thanks to this thoughtful approach, I felt truly valued, respected, and confident at every stage. What made my journey especially rich and authentic was this combination of welcoming kindness, clarity, and effort, which fostered a sense of appreciation and assurance throughout.

I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible volunteer internship experience I had at in Vietnam in the hospital from August 4th to August 15th.

From the moment I arrived, I was amazed by the work they do and the warm welcome I received. This internship was a profoundly enriching experience, both personally and professionally. I learned so many things about patient care, medical practices in a different cultural context, and the daily operations of a hospital.

What truly made this experience exceptional was the incredible local team. The coordinators were fantastic; they were always available, incredibly supportive, and provided clear guidance throughout the entire two weeks. They made sure I felt comfortable, integrated, and was always learning. The team's dedication and passion for their work are truly inspiring.

I am grateful for their kindness, for sharing their knowledge with me, and for making me feel like a part of the team. This experience has strengthened my desire to pursue a career in medicine, and I will cherish the memories and skills I gained during my time with them.

I would highly recommend this program to any student, and I hope to have the opportunity to return one day.

What made my experience great was the transparency involved with making the entire trip extremely smooth. Directions were clear and concise when arriving to Vietnam which made traveling abroad extremely comforting. While in Ho Chi Minh City, the local team did a great job of spelling out what I would be doing on a daily basis when it came to teaching English. I would highly recommend traveling abroad to volunteer because not only does it strengthen your core values, it allows you to experience multiple different cultures. The program was everything I wanted it to be and more!

This was my first time traveling and volunteering internationally by myself. I had a lovely experience with IVHQ. Before my trip, they did an excellent job helping me with whatever I needed to feel prepared for my trip. Honestly, when I got to my travel destination, I didn't know what to expect because I've never been to the country before, and I had no family there at all. It was quite nerve-wracking, but as soon as I met up with the local team, I immediately felt welcomed. It was like a big community and family. On this trip, I had an amazing time volunteering, helping a community, immersing myself into a new culture, and making new friends. Meeting the people in this program was probably the most memorable part. It's like coming together with people who are kind and compassionate, and want to help the world as much as you do. It's really refreshing to be with such amazing and intelligent human beings. The local team was impeccable, as well as the food. I loved everything about it (maybe it was a little too hot than what I am used to, but it was worth it). Do not hesitate and do this, it will be a transformative experience.