Employer profile

International Volunteer HQ

Updated
Updated: December, 2024

About International Volunteer HQ

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is a global leader in providing safe, affordable, and meaningful travel experiences through volunteering.

Since our establishment in 2007, IVHQ has empowered individuals to make a positive impact in communities worldwide while fostering cross-cultural understanding.

IVHQ has facilitated volunteer opportunities for over 144,000 participants across 50+ destinations, making us one of the most trusted names in the volunteer travel industry ranked by Trustpilot.

Why choose International Travel?

Volunteer travel is an increasingly popular way of getting more out of a trip where you combine your desire to explore the world with creating positive impact. You are not just a tourist, rather a contributor in meaningful projects that address specific needs or gaps in a community while being immersed in the local culture.

IVHQ offer 300 projects across 50+ destinations worldwide with durations from 1 to 24 weeks to support:

  • Increasing access to education
  • Protecting animals & the environment
  • Improving health & wellbeing
  • Supporting community development

As well as experiencing a truly authentic immersion in different cultures, you also gain new perspectives, develop deeper friendships with like-minded people from around the world, and make meaningful contributions to the global environment.

Earn Academic Credits While You Travel

We also offer the ability to earn academic credit, turning your trip into your own study abroad adventure. You can either design your own customized study abroad program or join a group to simplify the planning process and learn alongside other students from around the world.

On average, a traditional semester abroad costs $20,000 USD. With IVHQ, you can complete a 16-week volunteer program, and earn up to 16 US credits, for less than $5,000 USD.

IVHQ Make Volunteering Abroad Easy

We offer fully-hosted experiences that take the stresses out of traditional travel allowing you to focus on the best parts of your trip. When you book with IVHQ we provide you with the best volunteering experience in-country:

  • Accommodation for the duration of your program
  • 24/7 in country support
  • Organization of your volunteering placement
  • Discounts on language lessons, tour, & activity add-ons
  • In-country program orientation
  • Meals*
  • Airport pickup*

*Check individual programs for more details.

Our job is to empower volunteers to make a difference - and we’ve always been committed to making volunteering abroad more affordable and accessible to everyone with industry-leading low fees & flexible booking options.

IVHQ is also committed to ethical volunteering practices, ensuring that programs are community-led and align with local priorities. Partnerships with in-country organizations ensure that projects are sustainable, culturally sensitive, and impactful.

How to apply

Applying for a volunteer project with International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is a straightforward process designed to match you with a program that aligns with your interests and skills. Here's how to get started:

  1. Choose a destination and a volunteer project: Explore destinations and projects based on your interests, budget, and schedule.
  2. Submit Your Application: Complete a free online application to ensure your chosen program and dates are available.
  3. Reserve Your Spot: Confirm your participation by paying the registration fee, unlocking helpful resources to guide your journey.
  4. Prepare for Your Experience: Use your personalized MyIVHQ account for training, tips, and a preparation checklist to feel fully ready.
  5. Organize Your Travel: Arrange essentials like visas, flights, and travel insurance with support and recommendations from IVHQ.
  6. Complete Payment: Submit the program fee, covering accommodations, meals, and local support, at least 30 days before your start date.
  7. Embark on Your Journey: Arrive to a warm welcome, enjoy an orientation, and dive into your meaningful volunteer work.

Work sectors

leisure, sport and tourism, charities and voluntary work

Location

Europe, Worldwide

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