Volunteering as a Family: 5 Tips for Travelling and Making a Difference Together

Embarking on a volunteer journey as a family is a wonderful way to bond, teach valuable life lessons, and make a positive impact on the world. Here are five tips to help you plan a meaningful and enjoyable family volunteer experience:

1. Choose Age-Appropriate Projects

Selecting the right volunteer project is crucial to ensure that every family member can participate meaningfully.

Consider the ages, interests, and abilities of your children when choosing a project. For instance:

• Young Children (Ages 4 to 8): Engaging in activities like teaching English, playing games, or participating in arts and crafts can be both enjoyable and impactful. 
• Preteens and Teenagers (Ages 9 to 16): Older children might enjoy more hands-on projects, such as wildlife conservation or environmental work. 

2. Prioritize Safety

Safety should always be a top priority when volunteering abroad. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Research Destinations: Choose countries and regions known for political stability and low crime rates. Consult travel advisories and seek recommendations from reputable volunteer organizations.
• Health Precautions: Ensure that all family members are up-to-date on necessary vaccinations and are aware of any health risks associated with the destination.
• Accommodation and Supervision: Opt for family-friendly programs that offer suitable accommodations and proper supervision, especially for younger children. Some organizations provide shared family accommodations and homestays. 

3. Understand Group Volunteering Dynamics

Volunteering as a family differs from individual volunteering.

Keep these dynamics in mind:

• Teamwork: Emphasize collaboration and assign roles that play to each family member’s strengths.
• Communication: Maintain open lines of communication to ensure that everyone feels heard and valued throughout the experience.
• Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt to new environments and challenges, and encourage a positive attitude towards unexpected situations.

4. Recognize the Benefits of Family Bonding and Child Development

Volunteering together offers numerous advantages:

• Strengthening Family Bonds: Working towards a common goal can bring family members closer, creating shared memories and a sense of unity.
• Teaching Values: Children learn empathy, responsibility, and the importance of giving back through firsthand experience.
• Skill Development: Kids can develop new skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are valuable throughout life.

5. Plan for Leisure and Exploration

While the primary focus is on volunteering, it’s essential to balance work with leisure:

• Cultural Immersion: Take time to explore the local culture, cuisine, and landmarks to enrich the overall experience.
• Relaxation: Ensure that there is downtime for rest and recreation to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Embarking on a family volunteer trip is a rewarding adventure that combines travel, education, and altruism.

By following these tips, you can create an experience that is safe, fulfilling, and memorable for the entire family.

Explore the following reputable and vetted organizations for Family Volunteering Trips worldwide!

Programs to Volunteer as A Family

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) offers a variety of family-friendly volunteer programs across the globe, designed to accommodate families with children aged 15 and under.

As an added bonus, kids in this age group receive a 50% discount on their registration fee.

Here are our top destination picks for ideal family projects with IVHQ:

Puerto Rico

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) offers diverse programs in San Juan, Puerto Rico:

• Youth Support: Mentor children in community centers and after-school programs.
• Teen Summer Camp: A supervised summer experience for 16 to 17-year-olds, combining volunteering with cultural activities.
• Environmental Sustainability: Engage in conservation efforts to protect Puerto Rico’s natural habitats.
• Community Development: Support low-income neighborhoods through various grassroots initiatives.

Lombok, Indonesia

Get away from the overcrowded parts of Bali and explore Senggigi, Lombok in a meaningful way with your family:

• Turtle Conservation: Protect endangered sea turtles through activities like feeding, cleaning, and releasing them into the ocean. 
• Teaching: Assist local schools by teaching English and other subjects, fostering a fun and supportive learning environment. 
• Health Education: Promote better health among students by teaching basic hygiene and health skills. 
• Construction: Support community development by building and renovating essential infrastructure like schools and community centers. 

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

International Volunteer HQ’s Wildlife Conservation program in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, offers volunteers the chance to engage in hands-on conservation efforts within a private game reserve.

Participants assist with activities like animal tracking, habitat maintenance, and research projects, contributing to the preservation of Africa’s iconic wildlife. 

Romania

In Miercurea Ciuc, Romania, IVHQ offers diverse volunteer programs:

• Summer Camp: Engage children in English-themed activities during summer holidays.
• NGO Support: Assist local NGOs with education-focused initiatives.
• Sustainable Agriculture: Participate in community gardening and promote eco-friendly practices.
• Animal Care: Support local shelters in caring for animals in need.

Jordan

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) offers a variety of volunteer programs in Amman, Jordan, including:

• Ramadan Program: Participate in community initiatives during Ramadan, supporting local families and experiencing cultural traditions.
• Youth Support: Engage with local youth through educational and recreational activities, fostering development and empowerment.
• Women’s Education: Contribute to women’s empowerment by teaching English and other skills, promoting greater opportunities.
• Arts & Music: Share your creativity by teaching art and music, enriching the cultural experiences of local communities.

GoEco

GoEco offers enriching experiences across the globe, and these programs provide unique opportunities for families to bond, learn, and make a positive impact together.

Here are some standout programs to consider:

• Thailand: Engage in meaningful childcare activities, support local communities, and immerse your family in Thai culture.
• India: Participate in educational and community development projects, fostering growth and learning in vibrant Goa.
• Belize: Live on a private island, participate in marine conservation, and discover the vibrant underwater ecosystems.
• Zimbabwe: Support a family-run wildlife orphanage, caring for rescued animals in the heart of Africa.
• Maldives: Join conservation efforts in the Maldives, helping rehabilitate sea turtles while soaking up pristine beaches.
• Sri Lanka: Contribute to sea turtle conservation, playing a part in protecting these endangered species in beautiful Sri Lanka.

• Costa Rica
• • Animal Rescue and Conservation: Work hands-on with indigenous wildlife, supporting rescue and rehabilitation efforts in a tropical paradise.
  • Wildlife Volunteering on the Pacific Coast: Engage in conservation projects while exploring the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica’s stunning coastline.

• Indonesia
  • Sea Turtle Rescue: Contribute to sea turtle conservation by aiding in the rescue and rehabilitation of these majestic creatures.
  • Child Education: Assist in teaching English and other subjects, enhancing educational opportunities for local children.

Projects Abroad

Projects Abroad makes it easy, safe, and rewarding with programs designed to suit families of all sizes and ages.

Projects Abroad takes care of the logistics, so you can focus on creating lasting memories together.

In some cases, even children under 4 can join the adventure—just chat with the Projects Abroad team to explore your options. For kids aged 4 to 14, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved, often at a reduced rate to make it more budget-friendly. Teens aged 15 and older can either join their parents or even volunteer independently, participating at the standard rate. 

Explore these handpicked programs: 

• Galapagos Islands: Engage in conservation efforts, such as caring for giant tortoises and reforesting native vegetation.
• Peru’s Amazon Rainforest: Assist with animal rescue, and rehabilitation, and participate in butterfly and turtle breeding programs.
• Childcare in Nepal: Support early childhood development and help raise literacy levels among disadvantaged children.

African Impact

African Impact offers a variety of volunteer projects across Africa, providing meaningful opportunities to contribute to community development, education, environmental sustainability, and wildlife conservation.

 Here are some of their notable projects:

• Conservation & Ecobricking in Zambia
  Engage in environmental sustainability efforts by creating ecobricks—plastic bottles stuffed with non-biodegradable waste—to build structures and raise awareness about plastic pollution in local communities.
• Teaching & Community Support in Zanzibar
  Support education initiatives by teaching English and mathematics to students of all ages, empowering women through dedicated classes, and assisting in local nursery schools to promote early childhood development.
• Reforestation & Environmental Volunteering in Kenya
  Participate in reforestation efforts to combat deforestation, engage in environmental education, and support sustainable farming practices to promote ecological balance in Kenyan communities.
• Sports & Community Development in Zambia
  Promote health and well-being by coaching sports, organizing physical education classes, and facilitating community development programs that encourage youth participation and empowerment.
• Horse Riding, Rhino & Elephant Conservation in Zimbabwe
  Combine a passion for horse riding with wildlife conservation by monitoring and managing rhino and elephant populations, participating in anti-poaching initiatives, and educating local communities about conservation efforts.

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to offering meaningful volunteer experiences worldwide.

Their family volunteering programs are designed to accommodate participants of all ages, providing opportunities for families to engage in impactful projects together.

Here are some of their notable projects:

• Rural School Teaching in Cambodia
  Contribute to the education of children in rural Cambodia by teaching English and other subjects. Volunteers assist in schools with limited resources, helping to improve the educational outcomes of students.
• Sports Teaching on the Coral Coast, Fiji
  Promote physical education and healthy lifestyles by coaching sports to children in Fiji. Volunteers work alongside local coaches to inspire and engage students in various sporting activities.
• Environmental Conservation in the Philippines
  Participate in environmental conservation efforts in Palawan, Philippines. Volunteers engage in activities such as mangrove restoration, environmental education, and sustainable farming practices to promote ecological balance.
• Childcare and After-School Support in Seoul, South Korea
  Support the development of children by assisting in after-school programs in Seoul. Volunteers help with educational activities, and cultural exchange, and provide general care to children in need.
• Turtle Conservation in Nungwi, Zanzibar
  Contribute to the preservation of endangered sea turtles in Zanzibar. Volunteers assist in the rehabilitation and release of turtles, as well as engage in community education to raise awareness about marine conservation.

Volunteering Solutions (VolSol)

Volunteering Solutions (VolSol) offers a range of family-friendly volunteer programs worldwide, enabling families to engage in meaningful service while exploring new cultures.

Here are some notable projects:

• Family Volunteer Adventure in Malaysia
  Experience the rich cultural heritage of Malaysia while contributing to community development and environmental conservation efforts. This program is designed to accommodate families, providing a safe and educational environment for all ages.
• Volunteer at a Horse Sanctuary in Argentina
  Support the rehabilitation and care of rescued horses in the picturesque landscapes of Argentina. Families can learn about equine care and contribute to the well-being of these majestic animals.
• Animal Care Program in Porto, Portugal
  Assist local shelters in Porto by providing care to abandoned and rescued animals. This project offers families the opportunity to make a positive impact on animal welfare while enjoying the vibrant culture of Portugal.
• Slum Education Project in Jaipur, India
  Participate in educational initiatives aimed at empowering children in the slum areas of Jaipur. Families can engage in teaching and extracurricular activities, fostering a love for learning among underprivileged youth.
• Wildlife Conservation Program in Australia
  Join efforts to protect and conserve Australia’s unique wildlife. Families will engage in habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, and educational outreach to promote environmental sustainability.

Global Vision International (GVI)

Global Vision International (GVI) offers family volunteer opportunities that allow you to reconnect with your loved ones in beautiful destinations worldwide while contributing to community development projects that promise real progress.

Here are some of their notable programs:

• Volunteer with Desert Elephants in Namibia: Engage in hands-on conservation work to protect desert-adapted elephants in Namibia. Your family will assist in monitoring elephant movements and behaviors, contributing to the preservation of this unique species.
• Snorkelling, Kayaking, and Community Engagement for Island Conservation in Malaysia: Participate in island conservation efforts through activities like snorkeling and kayaking while engaging with local communities in Malaysia. This program combines adventure with meaningful environmental work.
• Women’s Empowerment Program in Costa Rica: Contribute to gender equality initiatives in Cartago, Costa Rica. Your family can support local women through education and empowerment projects, making a lasting impact on the community.
• Coastal Conservation Expedition in Thailand: Join efforts to protect Thailand’s coastal ecosystems. Your family will participate in marine conservation activities, including habitat restoration and species monitoring while experiencing the rich culture of Thailand.

Bond, Inspire, and Make An Impact

A family volunteer journey is more than just a vacation—it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories, teach valuable life lessons, and leave a meaningful impact on communities around the globe.

By carefully selecting age-appropriate projects, prioritizing safety, and embracing teamwork and flexibility, families can turn their time abroad into an enriching experience for everyone involved. 

Whether it’s protecting sea turtles in Sri Lanka, supporting community development in Jordan, or engaging in wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe, the opportunities are as diverse as the destinations. Start planning today, and let your family’s next adventure be one that inspires, connects, and makes a difference in the world.