Current News, Field Reports and Volunteer Voices

Several times each week, we post stories about work we do in our host communities – through the voices of our partners, volunteers, and those we serve. Subscribe using the form below to receive updates in your inbox when they’re published. If you’re looking for deeper insight into service in a specific country, on a particular type of project, how you can share your unique skills or volunteering as a family or a group, you can find a wealth of information here. Use the categories next to the posts here or on any page (below right column) to explore more stories that suit your interests.

We welcome your ideas on topics you’d like to see here. Please contact us at marketing@globalvolunteers.org. Enjoy our blog!

News and Updates Malaysia

New Service Program Opens in Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a captivating tapestry of cultural diversity, natural beauty, and modern innovation. With its exhilarating culture, vibrant festivals, and mouthwatering cuisine, this dynamic country entices…

volunteer abroad in retirement

Volunteer Voices

Three Reasons to Volunteer Abroad in Retirement

Choosing to volunteer abroad in retirement can be the most fulfilling decision you make! Unencumbered by work schedules, you can respond to needs worldwide, and in the U.S., and be assured that your contributions are appreciated and useful.…

News and Updates

40 Years of Service: Global Volunteers’ Guiding Principle – We do whatever we are asked to do

In this ongoing series, we describe Global Volunteers’ guiding principles. These ten foundational values shape our human and economic development approach and, in partnership with communities we serve globally, have yielded remarkable results.…

Development Impact

Volunteering Abroad: Travel that Feeds the Soul

Volunteering abroad is a transformative experience that leaves a mark on both the communities served and the volunteers themselves. Stepping out of one's comfort zone and immersing oneself in a different culture can lead to personal growth,…

Staff Worldwide Montana

Meet your Montana Team Leader: Rosie Morrison

Rosie has a heartwarming story about her meaningful relationship with Montana to share. She is currently Global Volunteers Montana Team Leader, having joined the staff in 2023. In this blog post, Rosie shares her connection to the Blackfeet…

News and Updates

40 Years of Service: Global Volunteers’ Philosophy of Service – Wage Peace and Promote Justice

Each of us is accountable for our own personal development. However, we are also entrusted with gifts and talents to be shared with others. Global Volunteers provides a direct way to share those gifts and talents. We are dedicated to building…

News and Updates Cuba

Volunteering in Cuba: A Journey of Service and Connection

With anticipation and excitement, Global Volunteers' 113th volunteer team in Cuba embarked on an adventure in service. The team comprising eight dedicated volunteers, arrived in Havana ready to make a difference and served for two weeks. With…

Volunteer Voices Puerto Rico

Service, Amid Colors and Coquis, in Puerto Rico

Alumni volunteer Ann Sweeney serves with Global Volunteers "to learn about other cultures, build relationships with people, and contribute to others in areas of need." A 10-time volunteer, starting in 2006, Ann returned from her Puerto Rico…

News and Updates

40 years of service: Global Volunteers’ Guiding Principle – We work under the direction of local leaders

In this series, we delve into each of Global Volunteers' guiding principles. With ten fundamental principles at the core of our approach, Global Volunteers has seen remarkable success in our partnerships with communities worldwide. These principles…

free time activities in the Cook Islands

Cultures and Traditions, Free Time Options Cook Islands

Cook Islands Volunteer Vacation Features Diverse Free-Time Options

Volunteering abroad with Global Volunteers guarantees that you will assist children and families in partner communities while immersing yourself in diverse cultures within some of the world’s most captivating locations. The Cook Islands is…

teaching in Cuba

Conversational English Cuba

“Reluctant Teacher” Says Cuban Teens Inspired Her Confidence

When first-time Global Volunteer and Ameriprise Financial Director, Cindy Hanson, prepared for her Cuba Service Program in 2022, she "overlooked" the expectation she'd be teaching basic English skills for part of every day. Once onsite, she…

active retirement

News and Updates Cuba

Welcome to Cuba! Travel Legally and Meet Amazing People

Visiting Cuba is a remarkable experience that we wish everyone could enjoy. Since Global Volunteers’ first group of travelers visited Havana in 2012, our focus has centered on the Cuban people – their hopes, dreams, and goals. We have worked…