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!

Volunteer Voices Cuba

Retiree Cites Serving Seniors as Highlight of Cuba Program

A recent retiree volunteering in Cuba describes the sights, sounds and inspiration she experienced while practicing English conversation with gracious elders and lively students. Mary Ann Fitzgerald says her life was enriched through this…

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…

Mental Health Projects Tanzania

Holding a Light for Addiction Recovery in Rural Tanzania

In 2023, Global Volunteers responded to the critical alcohol abuse problem in the Ukwega Ward by introducing the international addiction recovery program Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) through village meetings. AA was selected because its proven…

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.…

The Ripple Effect: Alumna’s “Model of Giving” Inspires Others to Serve

Barbara Rich believes in giving back. From the rain forest of Costa Rica and the Atlantic coast of Ghana to the plains of Minnesota and the "hollers" of West Virginia, the Massachusetts retiree credits her Global Volunteers service with keeping…

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…