Planning to Volunteer

Do I have to be from the United States to volunteer?
No, volunteers are from all over the world and of all age groups. Volunteer backgrounds vary from college students, to post college young adults, to working adults, to career changers to families with their children. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The majority of our volunteers come from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and Ireland.  There are also volunteers from Belgium, Japan, Germany, New Zealand, Israel and other countries from around the world.  Also please see the About You page.

Do I need to speak a foreign language?
No, foreign language skills are not required but helpful. Volunteers must be proficient in the English language.    

Who organizes my travel arrangements?
Volunteers arrange their own flights. We suggest looking for tickets at least 6 weeks in advance to find the most affordable price. 

Do I need a visa to travel?
A passport is usually sufficient for most countries depending on length of stay. However, visa requirements vary depending on your country of citizenship and destination.  Also, some countries require your passport to be valid for 6 months after the date of return.  Volunteers should always confirm by checking online, or contacting the nearest consulate/embassy of the country you are planning to visit.

Do I need travel and health insurance?
All volunteers are required while on the program to have or obtain their own health and travel insurance.

How long are the programs?
Volunteer programs range from 2-12 weeks. For further detail please read the requirements section of the specific country program you are interested in.

Program Fees and Procedures

How much do the programs cost?
The program registration fee is US $250. This is a one time charge. Which means once it is paid, you will be able to volunteer in any of our programs worldwide, without repaying this fee. In country fees are of course always required. In country fees vary among programs because of cost of living differences in each country. For further detail please read the program cost section of the specific country you are interested in.

What does the cost include?
The program fee covers marketing, research, communication, and administrative costs.  This charge is an essential part of sustaining our organization.  We would not be able to offer our services or expand our offerings without this fee.  The in-country fee covers your accommodation, food (breakfast and dinner), some transportation costs (airport pick up and initial placement drop off) and support.

Why do I have to pay to volunteer?
Volunteers of Help on the Way will be working with our partner organizations and the communities in which they work.  These local organizations have limited funds and resources to be able to cover the costs of hosting you.  These costs include housing, feeding, transportation, and support.  Fees are necessary to be able to operate the program. 

How and when should I apply?
We recommend you apply at least 8 weeks prior to departure date. This will secure availability in the program of your choice. Also, this will give you enough time to gather international needs which we do not provide such as passport, travel insurance, visa, immunizations, and health insurance. Programs begin in the  beginning or middle of each month. There is no fee for applying and/or obligation required upon submission of application. For further detail click here
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In-Country Program

What are the accommodations like?
Accommodations vary amongst programs. All accommodations are modest and are in a safe setting. Most living arrangements are with host families or directly on site in a work camp enviroment.  For further information please read the program location section of the specific country program you are interested in.

I am vegetarian, will that matter?
No, vegetarians will be accommodated.  We need to be aware of any dietary restrictions. We ask volunteers to make sure before arrival that special dietary requests are disclosed.

Will there be an orientation when I arrive?
Yes, orientation is provided by the in-country coordinator upon arrival.  We will also assist you and provide you with information prior to your departure.

How safe are the programs?
Safety is a priority in all our programs.  We require all volunteers to be in a safe environment.  During orientation, the in-country coordinator will familiarize volunteers with safety behavior.  For updated travel alerts and potential health hazards, these 2 websites are helpful: www.travel.state.gov, www.cdc.gov,

Do volunteers have free time to travel?
Volunteers have free time to explore their surroundings and local culture.  Volunteer work is conducted during the day, Monday through Friday typically (9-4), leaving nights and weekends free.  Arrangements regarding free time and expenses are your responsibility.

What additional costs should I be prepared for?
Be prepared to have spending money for daily purchases of water, snacks, bus rides and meals when not provided by your homestay or work camp. Also money for weekend excursions or other entertainment is suggested. Keep in mind the advantage here is that the cost of these things are likely much lower than what you are used to. It is suggested you purchase a travel book to get best acquainted with some options your destination country offers. And finally on occasion you may be asked to chip in for gas costs when in- country coordinators do driving outside of what the program requires.