Our History Saint Ann Foundation was born out of a powerful personal journey and a legacy of compassion. Founded in 2017 by Abel Robert Ssekayombya, the organization grew from his own experience of being raised by his late Auntie Ann after losing his parents at a young age due to poverty and hardship. In gratitude for her care and driven by a deep desire to support others facing similar challenges, Abel established Saint Ann Foundation to continue her legacy of uplifting underprivileged children, girls, and women. Today, the Foundation is legally registered in Uganda as a Company Limited by Guarantee and an NGO under the NGO Act 2016, as well as a 501(c)(3) public charity in the United States (EIN: 83-0652651). It works across peri-urban and hard-to-reach rural communities to create opportunities for those most in need. Our Mission Saint Ann Foundation envisions a world where every child, girl, and woman is nurtured, empowered, and equipped to reach their full potential. Guided by the motto “Empowered children, girls, and women, transformed communities,” we coordinate and optimize resources that enhance the welfare of the underprivileged. Through a collaborative, grassroots approach, we implement education, skills development, health, and livelihood programs that build resilience and support sustainable community growth. What Volunteers Should Expect Volunteers joining Saint Ann Foundation become part of a caring and purpose-driven community that values meaningful engagement and mutual learning. You will work alongside local women, youth, and community leaders, supporting empowerment initiatives such as vocational skills training, enterprise development, mentorship workshops, and community outreach activities. Life here is authentic, immersive, and rich in cultural exchange, offering you not only the chance to serve but also to grow personally and professionally.
Our Childcare and Teaching Program in Bali offers volunteers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on local communities while experiencing authentic Balinese culture. The program supports local kindergartens and community schools where resources are often limited and additional support is highly valued. Volunteers assist local teachers with basic English lessons, creative activities, games, arts and crafts, and general classroom support. The focus is not on formal teaching, but on creating a fun, engaging, and supportive learning environment for children. No teaching qualification is required—just enthusiasm, patience, and a genuine interest in working with children. Outside of volunteering hours, participants have plenty of free time to explore Bali, relax, or connect with fellow volunteers from around the world. Accommodation, daily support from our local team, and a welcoming community atmosphere are all included in the experience.
TWESA is a registered Community Based Organisation (CBO) working in Karonga District in northern Malawi. Established on 1st December 2015, TWESA aims to positively impact the community by promoting a healthy, educated, and gender-balanced society. To achieve sustainable community development in Karonga, TWESA works in five key thematic areas: Women and Youth Empowerment: Training in income-generating activities and encouraging participation in decision-making processes. Climate Change and Sustainable Agriculture: Tree planting, promotion of improved cooking stoves, briquette production from rice husks, organic farming techniques, and environmental awareness. Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH): Hygiene training, waste collection activities, construction of public toilets, and awareness of clean environment practices. HIV/AIDS and Nutrition: Education and awareness on HIV/AIDS prevention and the importance of healthy nutrition. Good Governance and Education: Supporting access to education for underprivileged children and managing pen-pal schemes to improve communication, cultural awareness, and language skills.
Eco Hero Conservation is a marine research and conservation program based in Nusa Penida, Indonesia, that trains and educates divers in the conservation of marine megafauna. We are always looking for marine enthusiasts to join our research diver training program and research team. This conservation program builds on the experience and expertise of volunteers from around the world. Coral reefs are essential to both human and marine life. They provide habitat for a wide variety of species and protect coastlines from erosion and storms. However, reefs are under severe threat from human activities such as irresponsible fishing, pollution, and climate change. Conservation is therefore essential, including keeping coastlines clean, preventing erosion, practicing sustainable fishing, avoiding coral damage, involving local communities, improving management capacity, and rehabilitating damaged reefs. We believe true conservation lies in allowing nature to function with minimal human interference. However, human activities such as plastic pollution, overfishing, and destructive practices disrupt this balance. As our work is ocean-based, we combine marine activities with ecological education. Participants may join a divemaster internship with marine ecology specialties, contributing to daily data collection on manta rays, turtles, and fish, learning about corals, and participating in coral propagation programs. We also organize beach and reef cleanups, awareness activities, and community support such as teaching English to local children. The internship includes training, materials, instructor support, and certification. Accommodation and lunch are provided on ocean training and research days.
Hello there, sweet people! My name is Redouane. I come from a nomadic family and have spent my life in the desert, moving from place to place until we settled at the edge of the desert in Erfoud. Welcome to Casa Redouane, your home in the Sahara Desert! Here, you will not only find a place to stay but also an experience full of love, learning, and connection. As a volunteer, you will become part of our family, sharing unique moments and helping to create a warm and welcoming community. Travel through Morocco, meet nomads, work alongside us, and, of course, sleep under the starry desert sky. At Casa Redouane, every day is a new adventure full of magic, friendship, and discovery. I will also help you reach the hostel easily, and we will stay in touch until your arrival. We are waiting for you with open arms to share this unique volunteer experience!
We’re a small, youth-led team passionate about education, nature, and community development. Our staff come from local villages and nearby towns, and many are teachers, beekeepers, conservationists, scuba divers, or university students who grew up in the area and now want to help protect it. We work closely with community members, parents, and local leaders to ensure every backpacker feels welcomed and supported. Backpackers can expect to be treated like part of the family. From the moment you arrive, we help you settle into your cabin, introduce you to local customs, and guide you through activities at a comfortable pace. We are friendly, patient, and always ready to help—whether you need support with teaching, coral reef activities, travel guidance, understanding the culture, or simply learning how to open a coconut. We believe in mutual respect: We listen to your ideas. We support your learning. We regularly check in to make sure you feel safe, included, and valued. We share meals, laughter, and local stories just as we do with long-time friends. We also encourage cultural exchange, where backpackers can share their own skills, traditions, and experiences with the community. Many participants form lasting friendships and return in the future, continuing to support local initiatives in different ways. Our goal is to make you feel at home—not as a guest, but as a meaningful part of our community and the impact we create together.
BLESS is a longstanding development organization implementing impactful projects in rural development, women’s empowerment, education, and health. Guided by a mission to create inclusive and sustainable communities, we work closely with grassroots groups. Volunteers can expect structured field activities, community interaction, and meaningful learning experiences.
Future Nepal is a volunteer organization in Nepal established in 2002 and registered with the Social Welfare Council of Nepal. It is a non-governmental and non-profit organization working under the principle of “change society by volunteering.” It was established with the objective of improving and promoting the status of the country through volunteering in Nepal. The members of the organization have extensive experience in volunteer work and are familiar with the various problems of society. At Future Nepal, we invite you to embark on a journey of positive change and contribute to a brighter future for Nepal. Whether you are a dedicated group, a passionate organization, or an individual seeking to make a meaningful impact, we extend a warm welcome. Established in 2002 and registered with the Social Welfare Council of Nepal, we are a non-governmental and non-profit volunteering organization committed to making a difference. Our mission is simple yet profound: to provide meaningful opportunities for volunteers and ourselves to foster a deeper understanding of one another. We welcome volunteers from around the world, offering them the chance to engage in life-changing projects across various fields.
I'm Ruth, and I discovered the Maldives over 20 years ago while visiting as a scuba diver in search of manta rays and whale sharks. I was fortunate to form close friendships with Maldivian locals who welcomed me into their homes to share dinners, afternoon hedhika, coffee, and betel nuts. My love for the country led me to visit over 30 times before co-founding Secret Paradise in 2012. My experience of Maldivian hospitality shaped our community-based tours, designed to connect travelers with local families, businesses, and NGOs. I feel privileged to call the Maldives my home and deeply respect its people, culture, and fragile natural environment. The Maldives Whale Shark Research (MWSR) is a research-based conservation charity dedicated to studying whale sharks and supporting marine conservation in the Maldives and Indian Ocean. Since 2006, it has become the only long-term organization focused on whale shark research in the Maldives. Its mission is to advance scientific knowledge and support conservation policy through collaboration with local communities and stakeholders, helping protect marine biodiversity and the ecosystems that sustain livelihoods and culture. Secret Paradise Maldives is an award-winning, positive-impact tour company and certified Travelife Partner and Climate Literate business. Recognized for sustainability and responsible tourism, we create immersive travel experiences beyond traditional beach tourism. Whether you are a solo traveler, couple, family, or friends, we offer guided tours that immerse you in Maldivian culture, marine life, and local communities. Our experienced local guides accompany all tours and are trained in first aid, snorkeling safety, and lifeguarding, ensuring safe and meaningful travel. Our guests travel responsibly, engaging deeply with the destination while treading lightly on the environment and contributing positively to local communities.
We are community members hosting international volunteers since 1988. We have welcomed volunteers from 32 countries and provide clean, comfortable accommodation and traditional Indian home-cooked organic meals. Volunteers have opportunities to interact with the local community, teach English to school students and children, and learn local and Hindi languages. They can also learn local crafts and arts, enjoy living close to nature with fresh air, and experience local customs and traditions. Participants may also join local fairs, cultural events, and Hindu religious celebrations, depending on the season and timing.
Nui Tuong focuses on community upliftment in rural Vietnam through education, vocational training, eco-tourism, and sustainable farming. Visitors can enjoy accommodation, food, and tours while learning about sustainable agriculture and healthy lifestyles. These efforts benefit both locals and visitors.
Association of Cambodia Child First (ACCF) is a Cambodian non-governmental organization working for the common good of society, focusing on the education of children and support for thousands of families in Bakong District. Established in 2014, ACCF has since supported an average of 100 children and thousands of the poorest families. ACCF provides free full-time English and Chinese classes five days a week, along with essential learning materials, including notebooks, textbooks, school bags, shoes, and pens. The program also offers monthly breakfasts to around 220 children to support their daily well-being and learning. The project is based in Steong Village, Bakong Commune, Bakong District, Siem Reap Province, approximately 15 kilometers from Siem Reap town. Many families in this rural area face economic hardship, making access to education and basic school supplies difficult. ACCF has identified key challenges such as lack of uniforms, learning materials, food, and transportation to school. Some children are unable to attend school due to distance and financial barriers. To address this, the organization works closely with local authorities to identify vulnerable children and families and provide targeted support. Through outreach programs, the ACCF team visits families to assess needs and ensure children receive essential educational resources. This includes school supplies, food support, and learning opportunities, helping reduce dropout rates and improve access to education. ACCF believes that all children are the foundation and future of the nation, and works to ensure they have equal opportunities to learn and grow.
The Good Karma Foundation invites individuals of all ages and professions to experience the heart of rural Nepal through our “Holistic Community Development” program. Designed as a meaningful break from routine, this initiative allows students, gap-year travelers, and professionals to help build resilient communities while forming strong personal connections with local people. Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Kathmandu Airport and a guided city tour, followed by a scenic seven-hour drive to Lamjung district—the gateway to the Annapurna region. By staying in villages like Khudi and Siurung, you become part of a framework that supports social and economic development in rural communities. Once settled, volunteers take part in a variety of activities, including teaching in local schools, light construction work, organic farming, and preparing traditional meals. We see volunteering as a two-way cultural exchange, where you contribute to local development while learning from the traditions and daily life of diverse ethnic groups, including Brahmin, Gurung, Tamang, and Newar communities. Accommodation is provided in a safe, earthquake-resistant volunteer house built with Korean technology, offering a comfortable communal living space that encourages international friendship. Meals are prepared using fresh local ingredients such as vegetables, milk, and honey. The program is set in the stunning landscape of the Mansiri Himal range, with views of Manaslu, Himalchuli, and Ngadi Chuli. Weekends are free for exploration and relaxation, including hikes to nearby viewpoints, visits to waterfalls and hot springs, yoga in nature, or swimming in the Marshyangdi River. This program offers a balanced mix of cultural immersion, adventure, and community development, creating meaningful experiences and lasting memories.
Started as a free school to provide education to village children in 2015, the program expanded its approach to include organic agriculture, animal husbandry, and a platform for volunteering to share knowledge and experience, and more importantly, contribute to sustainability. Officially registered as a non-profit organisation by the government and recognised by international institutions since 2022, we provide volunteers with a unique experience of living with our team in our village program while practising humanity through our humanitarian projects in education, agriculture, and construction. We care and share, and also utilise time for activities for self-development, recreation, and relaxation, supporting inner peace and happiness through a simple way of life close to nature, with greenery around us and beautiful mountain views in front of us.
United Tansania e.V. is a German NGO, registered in 2021 and based in Tanzania. We study both hyena species: the striped hyena, classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, and the spotted hyena, which is threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict. To understand the drivers of sustainable carnivore survival outside protected areas, we work on mitigation solutions with communities that experience hyena conflicts. Due to their negative reputation and responsibility for livestock losses, hyenas are subject to high levels of persecution, including the use of snares. Our team, led by a veterinarian and supported by local trackers and camp staff, is committed to empowering local communities and conducting research on spotted and striped hyenas. Our long-term goals include developing effective strategies for carnivore conservation and improving animal health.
In 2010, Dr. Edward Louis, who has worked in Madagascar since 1998, established the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership (MBP), a Malagasy non-governmental organization created to expand innovative conservation projects throughout the country. MBP is dedicated to protecting Madagascar’s unique forests and biodiversity while sustainably improving the quality of life for local communities that rely heavily on natural resources. Guided by the belief that “everything is connected,” or “Mampifandray ny tontolo,” MBP combines conservation, education, research, and community development to achieve long-term sustainability for both people and the environment. Through this volunteer program, MBP aims to support conservation research, community-based conservation, education, and outreach activities. Volunteers contribute to projects that help preserve the environment, support sustainable development, and strengthen local understanding of conservation challenges and solutions. MBP works closely with local communities to encourage environmental awareness, improve educational opportunities, and create empowerment initiatives that benefit residents living near conservation areas. Volunteers may assist with environmental education, research support, outreach programs, and other community-focused activities designed to create a lasting positive impact. The main project site is the Grewcock Ihofa Vohitsara Bioreserve (GIVB) in central-east Madagascar. This area is rich in biodiversity and provides volunteers with a unique opportunity to experience Madagascar’s natural beauty while contributing to meaningful conservation and community efforts.
History & Mission: Simoonga Thandizani Trust School was founded in Simoonga Village with the vision of providing free, quality education to children whose families cannot afford school fees. Since its establishment, the school has grown to serve over 318 students from early childhood to primary level, supported by 29 dedicated staff members, many of whom volunteer their time to ensure every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive. The school emphasizes not only academic growth but also values such as community, resilience, and cultural pride. Volunteer Experience: At Simoonga Thandizani Trust School, volunteers become an integral part of the community. You can expect to support classroom activities, provide remedial education, assist in physical education, and engage in cultural exchange with students and village residents. Volunteers also help with creative projects, local community initiatives, and skill-sharing workshops. Every contribution directly impacts the children’s education and community development, creating a truly immersive and rewarding experience for those who join.
We are a public school teaching kindergarten, primary, and secondary pupils. We are based in Uttaradit, Thailand. We welcome volunteers and interns who would like to help us teach basic spoken English or Chinese (Mandarin) to our students.
Our volunteer program supports children in surrounding villages by improving access to sustainable education and helping bridge the gap between local and Western-style schooling. Private schools have 50–100 students with 5–30 pupils per class, while public schools can have up to 1500 students with 50–80 pupils per class. Due to limited teachers, classes cannot always be split. After an introductory period with a professional teacher, volunteers may teach independently once comfortable. What you can expect: Books are limited, usually 1–2 per subject per class. Students copy from the blackboard and learn at different speeds, so individual attention is important. Teachers often lack time to support every student, so volunteers help keep students engaged and support those who need extra help. We welcome ideas from volunteers to improve teaching methods, many of which continue even after they leave. An after-school library is also available where volunteers assist students from nearby villages. These students have mixed learning levels, so help with exercises, corrections, and explanations is highly needed. The library also has teaching materials and a small playground with a basketball hoop for educational games and PE activities. Location: Schools are within walking distance from host families and include classrooms, playgrounds, and staff rooms. Smaller schools may have basic play equipment, while larger public schools may have football or basketball fields. Tea and cake are provided during break time. Host families are in quiet villages near Arusha town, with shops nearby and a 20-minute walk to the city. The area is green with views of Mount Meru and a strong community atmosphere. What we expect from you: No special equipment is required, though school supplies like books, pens, and pencils are appreciated. Volunteers should be open-minded, respectful, and responsible. We provide full support during your stay and assistance with daily needs and travel arrangements. You will gain valuable insight into local culture, traditions, and everyday life beyond typical tourism experiences.
We are a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of vulnerable children in the community. Our programs focus on teaching and feeding initiatives aimed at providing children in surrounding villages with more sustainable education. Since local schools are often not as well organized as in Western systems, our goal is to help bridge this gap. We also work closely with private schools in the community to improve access to quality education.