An Introduction to Volunteering

From Here to There

So you’re interested in volunteering abroad but not sure how to get the process started? What do I do from here, what can I expect from GVN, and what’s needed from me?

At Global Volunteer Network, we have 7 years of experience placing international volunteers and we’re here to share our knowledge with you, to help you get where you want to go. This page is a short guide to how volunteering works in practice.

Where What and When

Are you interested in a specific country or culture? Or you do have a particular type of project in mind, regardless of where in the world it is?

There are so many options available at GVN there’s bound to be a program to suit you. We recommend you read through our program descriptions or speak to our staff members to find out which program is the best match for you.

Our programs run year round and placements range from 1 week to 6 months. It’s up to you when and for how long you take part, giving you flexibility to make your arrangements.

The Application Process

Application Process

If your application is successful we will email you with a Letter of Acceptance. To secure your placement in the program you will then need to pay your application fee. GVN is one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.

Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns.

Preparing for your Trip

Once you have secured your placement in the program you will be provided with further information to help you prepare for your trip. You will receive access to your online Program Guide which covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process and much more. Your Volunteer Coordinator will be in touch with you, and can answer any questions you may have and provide you with guidance while you are preparing for your placement.

We also have videos, photo galleries, volunteer journals and other resources to give you an idea of what you can expect during your volunteer program with us.

Arriving in Country

You will be provided with detailed information on the necessary arrival arrangements for your program. In most cases volunteers will be picked up at the airport by a representative of our partner organisation and taken back to their accommodation.

This ensures you are supported from your arrival in country and minimises your chances of getting lost in an unfamiliar city!

On the Project

You will find the in country partner to be an excellent support base during your placement. In most instances training and orientation are provided at the start of your placement as a means to help you settle into your project as well as providing cultural and safety advice for your time on the project.

During your placement GVN staff in New Zealand are also available to support you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going. Our 24 hour emergency telephone number provides an opportunity to get in touch with us in the case of an emergency.

Returning Home - What Next?

Taking part in one of our volunteer programs is an inspirational and motivational experience. You will return home wondering how you can continue to support the projects you participated in.

Returned volunteers join our Change Makers club which provides them with a variety of opportunities for staying connected to their volunteer project and GVN.

Testimonials

You Are Welcome!

Minna Kathrine Larsen is from Denmark. She volunteered twice in the Ghana Teaching Program.

"The first thing any Ghanaian will tell you when he or she first meets you is "you are welcome!" Never have I met such warm and kind-hearted people! Teaching was so much fun and my kids made me so proud every single day. They are so smart, always happy and so excited that you are there as a volunteer.

I went to Ghana to make a difference in the lives of others, but as it turned out, Ghana and Ghanaians rather made a huge difference in my life. I walked away with a whole new outlook on life, as a matured and wiser person and most importantly I walked away with the greatest friends in the world and a whole new family."

"I was the one who was changed"

Cristina Klosterman from the US volunteered in the Uganda program

"I am a cautious person who was not that adventurous. I don't like bugs, getting dirty, or going without my little luxuries. I never go camping because I am not into the outdoors. I love children, I love helping, and I love traveling. I decided to do something different. I combined my dislikes and my loves, step outside of my little comfort bubble, and went to Uganda.

I was placed with YOFAFO and my position was to help teach at a Children's Village. Here I was thinking, "I can help these kids! I can change their lives in some small way! I can make a difference!" Turns out, I was the one who was changed. I fell in love with those kids. I fell in love with the whole country! The people were very friendly, hospitable, and generous. I have never been thanked so many times for just being there."