Stories from students, retirees, working professionals, couples, families, groups, solo travelers, first-time volunteers, volunteer veterans and everyone in-between from more than 20 countries around the world. Learn about your favorite country in their own words.
This past July, Anse La Raye Primary Summer School welcomed Ani Transka, a first-time volunteer whose infectious joy, energy, and sunshine transformed every moment into magic. From the day she arrived, Ani’s laughter was contagious, her creativity boundless, and her heart wide open. Whether leading games, painting faces, or dancing with the children, Ani’s presence […]
For Kurt Jaeger, a 13-time Global Volunteers alumnus, volunteering abroad—especially in Peru—has always been about building meaningful relationships. During his service at Sagrada Familia in Peru, he formed a special bond with a dedicated teacher, Hugo Sutizal. Through that kindred spirit, Kurt came to truly understand the deep and lasting impact of human connection. Here’s […]
Elizabeth Wang, Senior Marketing Product Manager at Google, sought both a different way to travel and a meaningful way to give back to the global community. After reviewing several organizations online, Elizabeth selected Global Volunteers’ Vietnam service program. She served in Hanoi at Blind-Link, a non-profit organization which trains visually impaired adults in massage therapy […]
Global Volunteers alumni Tom and Rondi Olson were eager for their service program in Crete, Greece. After serving in Peru and Cuba, they said the island’s craggy beauty and friendly culture drew them to their next volunteer adventure. In a two-part blog post, Rondi and Tom report on the students, teachers, and volunteers they worked […]
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 unique program, and shares how Global Volunteers enabled her to easily and safely explore Havana, Cuba through service. Florida retiree Mary […]
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. What’s more, the personal connections you make on a service program with Global Volunteers can be profound […]
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 Service Program in March 2024 with more unique insights about the value of international travel. “We get to […]
Each February for the last three years, Darby Hansen and her husband, Paul Agosta, have volunteered in St. Lucia – where they first visited on vacation. At that time, the island tugged at their heart, and they were gratified to discover how Global Volunteers could enable them to return in meaningful service. Although the pandemic […]
Fed up with a harsh Minnesota winter, alumnus Alan Maclin boarded a plane bound for sunny St. Lucia to volunteer and get his mind off snow drifts. In his own words, Alan reflects on his service experience, and explains how the warm and friendly primary school students he taught helped him forget the cold back […]
Dive into the inspiring chronicle of Beth Capek’s remarkable journey—a story that blends education, exploration, and the joy of making global connections. In Sicily, she shared her passion for teaching English and discovered a world of camaraderie, laughter, and meaningful change. In the midst of Beth’s life story, a significant chapter unfolded during her years […]