If you're looking for a unique life-changing experience, international volunteering should be at the top of your list! ELI partners with hundreds of local organizations in countries on five continents to provide volunteer opportunities to meet the goals of anyone looking for an international volunteer experience.  Whether you would like to devote your time to caring for orphans in the Philippines, teaching in a rural school in Ghana, breeding tortoises in the Galapagos, building a holocaust memorial in Poland, working at a health camp in India, planting trees in rural Tanzania, or any of the hundreds of other options available, we can set up the right program for you. Depending on the location, volunteer programs can last any length of time from a week to a year.  Choose a country to start planning your volunteer experience.

What to Expect

Volunteering abroad can be the most rewarding experience of your life and the most challenging at the same time.  You will be immersed in a new culture, you will meet incredible people, and you will learn a lot about yourself. 

ELI has partnered with hundreds of organizations that warmly welcome volunteers to assist with their programs.  Some of these organizations have been hosting volunteers from all over the world for years so there is quite a bit of structure and they already have a position for you in mind, while other organizations have hosted very few volunteers and may be hesitant when asking you to do something.  It is important to be flexible and patient!  Successful volunteers take the time to build a rapport with those they are working with and fill voids where they find them.  There are always ways to make a difference, but sometimes they are more subtle.  If you get stuck, it is a great idea to draw on your interests.  In the past, children’s program volunteers have painted murals, built kites, and even started and coached a soccer team!  It may not seem life altering to you, but that experience is invaluable for the kids.

International volunteers are out to make a difference, and it is important to keep perspective on your ability and the big picture.  Volunteers provide steps toward larger goals.  Sometimes it can be difficult to keep that in mind when you see how much work needs to be done.  Don’t be overwhelmed, the impression that you leave behind is immeasurable.  Sometimes volunteers with women’s groups spend time chatting with a group of women who are working to become self-sufficient.  Speaking about those issues can be an enormous step towards life changing independence. 

Donations are always welcome, and needs vary.  Volunteer teachers often bring colored paper, markers and books to use in their activities.  Orphanage volunteers often collect clothing, coloring books, and simple children’s books.  Be sure to check on luggage restrictions with your carrier.  Another great option is to collect monetary donations and then purchase items when you arrive in-country. This is a great way to assess the need first hand and support local vendors at the same time.