If you fall into the 15 to 17-year-old group and you are interested in going to volunteer abroad this can be an exciting prospect but also a little bit scary.
Although options are limited compared to if you are aged 18+, there are some fantastic group volunteer programs for 15, 16 and 17 year olds, packed with adventure.
Teenager can enjoy a safe fun experience and meet loads of people was sharing amazing new experiences and we can promise you will get the travel bug.
Why Volunteer Abroad?
The benefits of volunteering extend to you – the volunteer, and to the community and project where you serve. Personal benefits include development of life skills, personal growth, friendship, increased self confidence, social awareness, and building independence. An international volunteer experience will also enhance career prospects.
When you volunteer, you can be assured you are helping a local grassroots organisation. Volunteer efforts directly benefit local groups, local communities, and local people. You can help local organizations to support them in achieving their goals and ensuring that their projects are sustainable and effective.
What Kind of Volunteer Work is Available?
Volunteer opportunities for teens are usually in teaching, childcare, library and school building and maintenance programs. Your placement will be tailored according to individual requirements of the program and volunteers.
How to Apply
If you’re interested in volunteering abroad but not sure how to get the process started? What do I do from here, what can I expect, and what’s needed from me?
Some companies have years of experience placing international volunteers and they can help you get where you want to go. This page is a short guide to how volunteering works in practice if you aren’t aged 18.
Most placements for anyone aged 18 and under are structured, and you can apply as part of a group e.g. school trip, with family of as part of a group with an adult.
Once you have secured your placement in the program you will be provided with further information to help you prepare for your trip. You will receive access to an online guide which covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process and much more. A volunteer coordinator will be in touch with you, and can answer any questions you may have and provide you with guidance while you are preparing for your placement.
On arrival in country you will be provided with detailed information on the necessary arrival arrangements for your program. In most cases volunteers will be picked up at the airport by a representative and taken to accommodation. This ensures you are supported from your arrival in country and minimises your chances of getting lost in an unfamiliar city!
You will find the in country partner to be an excellent support base during your placement. In most instances training and orientation are provided at the start of your placement as a means to help you settle into your project as well as providing cultural and safety advice for your time on the project.v
During your placement staff are available to support you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going. Most international agencies have a 24 hour emergency telephone number provides an opportunity to get in touch in the case of an emergency.
At the end of your placement you’ll receive a letter outlining the details of your volunteer placement, which can be included in your CV.
FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive in our inbox. This is a great place to start if you have questions about volunteering and placement processes. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.
Which countries do most of your volunteers come from?
The majority of international volunteers come from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. There are usually also smaller numbers of people from countries like Ireland, Germany, New Zealand, Japan, and many other countries from all over the world.
Orientation
The orientation session will provide you with the necessary information to begin your volunteering program. It includes an introduction to the local culture and language, the Code of Conduct and expectations of the program, health and safety, local tips and advice.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided and depending on your program choice will vary from home stay, dormitory style, volunteer house, apartment, or on-site accommodation.
Meals
The delicious meals provided are a great way for volunteers to experience the local culture. Depending on your program choice you will be provided with between 1-3 meals each day.
Do I need travel insurance?
Usually, yes – travel insurance is usually compulsory for participants. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you checking to ensure your policy will cover you during your volunteer placement.
Help and advice
If you have any questions please contact us to say hello (we won’t bite) and we can talk you through some of your options.