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Volunteering Projects in Kenya from $43 per day
You can become involved in helping to develop communities in Kenya. With such a variety of projects this program has something to suit everyone.
You have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of under-privileged children and adults by providing education and counselling in schools and orphanages, HIV education, and medical care.
Whilst sharing your knowledge and compassion with the local people, you will have a chance to make a personal contribution and connection to the people of Kenya.
The Projects
Volunteers will be placed in program locations in the suburbs surrounding Nairobi, including Dagoretti, Kibera, Rongai, Kahawa, Lower Kabete, and Wangige. Other locations are Limuru (40km from Nairobi), Ngong (50km from Nairobi), Olkajiado (60km from Nairobi), and Nyeri (115km from Nairobi).
Children
You have the opportunity to help children in need. Children who have lost their parents to HIV/AIDS, children who have been abused by their parents and children whose parents are not able to provide for them. These kids need love, attention, life skills, and education so they can have successful futures free from poverty and filled with the same opportunities as others.
As a volunteer you will be a mentor by becoming a big brother or sister to kids in a children's home. You will work alongside local staff to help with classroom teaching and homework help, childcare, and the daily operational running of the home. Volunteers are also encouraged to initiate their own work by organizing arts and crafts, music, dance, games, sports activities, and day trips for the children.
This role is suitable for a caring, motivated, and self-directed person who has a love for children and has childcare experience.
Teaching
Quality education for both boys and girls is crucial in reducing poverty and promoting gender equality. Schools in Kenya are currently struggling with overcrowded classes and a lack of skilled teachers.
As a volunteer you will help to empower girls and boys by giving them the skills they need to overcome poverty and to make their voice heard. We have opportunities for volunteers to assist with teaching at preschool, primary, and secondary levels. There may also be opportunities to teach at the IDP camps.
At primary and secondary levels, volunteer teachers can teach core subjects, such as English, mathematics, science, social sciences, and can initiate extra-curricular activities.
Volunteer preschool teachers will teach basic English skills and carry out basic childcare duties.
This role is suitable for a caring, motivated, and self-directed person. A teaching qualification is not required (except for secondary teaching) but volunteers need to be confident in the above subjects and preferably have or be studying towards a university degree.
HIV/AIDS
Kenya has been hit hard by the HIV/AIDS epidemic with approximately 1.25 million adults and over 100,000 children infected. The aim of the HIV/AIDS program is to decrease the spread of HIV through raising awareness and education, increasing access to homecare, and providing emotional support to those affected by HIV/AIDS within the community.
Volunteers have the opportunity to work in a community HIV/AIDS organization to assist with homecare visits to HIV positive people, and educate and counsel community and school groups and individuals.
This role is suitable for a caring, motivated, and self-directed person. Medical training is not necessary for all aspects of the program, but a background in HIV/AIDS and basic health care is required.
Medical/Health
Malaria, typhoid, pneumonia, and tetanus are treatable diseases, yet many still die in Kenya as a result of not receiving proper medical care. Government-run hospitals and medical clinics are ill-equipped to handle the volume of people in need of care.
As a medically qualified volunteer you can help by sharing your medical skills and working alongside local staff to provide those in need with basic medical care. Volunteers have the opportunity to work in the areas of general medical practice, maternal health, minor surgery, and laboratory work. This role is suitable for self-directed, caring people who are medically qualified.
Maasailand Teaching
The Maasai have largely managed to remain outside of mainstream African culture and maintain their traditional ways, although this becomes more challenging each year. For this reason Maasai are increasingly seeking the opportunities African society has to offer. With little government support Maasai struggle to find teachers and medical professionals to work in their schools and medical clinics.
Teaching Program: It is estimated that less than half of all Maasai children attend schools, so teaching volunteers are urgently needed to help reverse this trend. Volunteers have the opportunity to educate children at primary school level. Subjects taught include English, mathematics, science, and social studies. Volunteers are also encouraged to initiate extra-curricular activities.
Maasailand Medical
The Maasai have largely managed to remain outside of mainstream African culture and maintain their traditional ways, although this becomes more challenging each year. For this reason Maasai are increasingly seeking the opportunities African society has to offer. With little government support Maasai struggle to find teachers and medical professionals to work in their schools and medical clinics.
Medical Program: Medically qualified volunteers are needed to work in community clinics to increase access to basic healthcare and promote health education in the local community.
Gallery
Video
About Kenya
Kenya’s incredible natural environment and cultural heritage is almost unmatched in Africa. If you’re adventurous - and sensible - it promises the globe's most magnificent wildlife parks, unsullied beaches, thriving coral reefs, memorable mountain scapes, and ancient Swahili cities. Kenya's beauty is compromised by a cluster of familiar problems; HIV remains a major problem, along with cholera and malaria epidemics. Kenya has also experienced major floods and droughts; one drought led to food shortages in mid-2004 that were deemed a national crisis. While Kenya's diverse population has produced a vibrant culture, it is also a source of conflict that has led to ethnic fighting. Other pressing challenges include high unemployment, crime, and poverty; most Kenyans live below the poverty level of $1 a day.
Geographically Kenya lies across the equator on the East Coast of Africa. It borders Somalia, Ethiopia and Sudan to the north, Uganda to the west, Tanzania to the south and the Indian Ocean to the east. Kenya covers an area of 225, 000 sq miles (582, 646 sq km); slightly more than twice the size of Nevada, U.S.A.>
Development in Kenya
Kenya has been hit hard by the HIV epidemic with approximately 1.25 million adults and over 100,000 children infected.
Throughout Africa, the AIDS crisis is placing serious strains on societies in a number of ways. First of all, it is draining the already limited health services as greater numbers of HIV patients become in need of care. HIV/AIDS has also increased the mortality rate of healthcare workers making their already depleted numbers in even shorter supply.
HIV/AIDS is also affecting the young adult group in society who are the prime income earners for their household. When young children lose their parents, they are often forced to leave school in order to work. Households with one or more HIV patients have to spend a greater amount of their meagre income on care and funeral costs and cut back on basic necessities and, in order to cope, they may be forced to borrow from other households and use up their savings. This causes many families to fall into further poverty.
Other long-term barriers to economic development in Kenya include electricity shortages, the government's continued and inefficient dominance of key sectors, corruption, and the country's high population growth rate.
Volunteer Impact
Volunteers provide assistance to disadvantaged socio-economic groups within Kenyan communities, focusing primarily on orphaned children, HIV/Aids groups, the Maasai people, and school children.
As a volunteer in Kenya you can provide love, affection, education and support to disadvantaged children. You will help to improve education in schools ensuring children learn and flourish. As a volunteer you can practice and teach preventative healthcare, and hygiene. You will also provide education, inter-cultural exchange and understanding in Kenyan communities.
What else can I do in Kenya?
Visitors to Kenya will have no shortage of activities to fill up their free time.
Visit a baby elephant orphanage and witness feeding time, experience the hustle and bustle of market shopping, go on Safari and spy the Big 5! To cool off you can take a trip to the coast and soak up the sun and surf at the beach.
Costs
Application Fee – US $97
Your application fee is fully transferable and will secure your place on the Kenya program, (or any other GVN program of your choice), at a placement date that is suitable to you.*
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*Your application fee provides you with access to any of GVN's volunteer programs over the next 5 years, as many times as you like without having to pay another application fee! |
Children under 18 are not required to pay the application fee when volunteering together with a parent/guardian. (Except for participants in our Youth Tour program who are required to pay a US$97 application fee.)
Program Fee – From US$ 43 a day*
- 2 weeks - US $1597
- 3 weeks - US $1797
- 4 weeks - US $1997
- 5 weeks - US $2097
- 6 weeks - US $2197
- 7 weeks - US $2297
- 8 weeks - US $2397
Placements longer than 8 weeks are available, please contact us or apply online for details.
*Based on an 8 week placement
What’s included:
| Accommodation: | Home stay, volunteer dormitory or onsite at your project. |
| Meals: | Breakfast and dinner. |
| Project Donation: | Included. |
| Airport pickup: | On arrival date. |
| Training: | In-country orientation. |
| Supervision: | In-country staff supervision. |
| Support: | Pre-departure personal support from your volunteer coordinator, 24/7 in-country support from partner, and 24hr emergency line. |
Additional Benefits:
- A Quality Volunteer Placement
Dedicated staff with the sole focus of facilitating the placement of volunteers, reviewing and improving programs and supporting the work of our partners. -
Program Guide
Your online resource guide that covers topics such as country information, details on your placement, travel links, visa application process, and much more! - Fundraising guide
Your Fundraising Guide and Software which provides you with proven fundraising strategies, letter generating software and other resources to help you raise up to 100% of the cost of your trip. - Personal online journal
Which help you to communicate effectively and easily with your family and friends back home. - Access to a non-profit:
Contribute to the ongoing support of the charitable + educational work of community organisations.
What’s not included:
Flights, insurance, visas, vaccinations, departure from the program.
We recommend you allow a weekly budget of US $50 for your other expenses such as bottled water, lunch, personal items, beverages, and entertainment.
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Schedule
Program Schedule
Start Date: 1st or 15th of each month
Length: 2 weeks to 6 months
Please note:
- Your stay can be extended beyond six months on a case-by-case basis (depending upon our partner's requirements).
- Teaching and Maasailand programs require a one month minimum commitment.
- The Teaching program is closed during school holidays which run during April, August, and late November/early January. Volunteers can join the program during school holidays if the majority of their placement is during the school term. During holiday times volunteers need to come prepared to volunteer in the orphanage program.
FAQ
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions which we receive at the GVN inbox. This is a great place to start if you have questions about Global Volunteer Network and our placement process. This information should answer the majority of questions you may have.
Tell me more about Kenya
Kenya’s incredible natural environment and cultural heritage is almost unmatched in Africa. If you’re adventurous - and sensible - it promises the globe's most magnificent wildlife parks, unsullied beaches, thriving coral reefs, memorable mountain scapes, and ancient Swahili cities. Kenya's beauty is compromised by a cluster of familiar problems; HIV remains a major problem, along with cholera and malaria epidemics. Kenya has also experienced major floods and droughts; one drought led to food shortages in mid-2004 that were deemed a national crisis. While Kenya's diverse population has produced a vibrant culture, it is also a source of conflict that has led to ethnic fighting. Other pressing challenges include high unemployment, crime, and poverty; most Kenyans live below the poverty level of $1 a day.
What is the climate like in Kenya?
Kenya has a tropical climate. It is hot and humid at the coast, temperate inland, and very dry in the north and northeast parts of the country. There is plenty of sunshine all the year round and summer clothes are worn throughout the year. However, it is usually cool at night and early in the morning. The hottest period is from February to March and coldest in July to August. The average annual temperatures range between 10 degree celsius and 35 degrees celsius. The long rain season occurs from April to June and short rain season from October to December. The rainfall is sometimes heavy and often falls in the afternoons and evenings.
What kind of volunteer work is available?
Volunteer opportunities are in areas of teaching, working in children's homes, primary healthcare, and HIV/AIDS programs. Wherever possible, volunteer placements will be tailored to the needs of the volunteer.
Is there any time of the year when I can’t volunteer?
Volunteers are able to participate in the Kenya program all year round. For the teaching program, however, school holidays run during April, August, and December/early January. Volunteers can work during school holidays if the majority of their placement is during the school term. These volunteers need to come prepared to volunteer in the children's program during holiday times.
When will I know specific details on my placement?
The specific details of your placement are determined a couple weeks before you arrive. You will be asked for your preferences later in the process. Wherever possible, we will see that requests and specific needs are met with regards to both the volunteer and the needs of the community.
Where will I be located?
There are four program locations: Nairobi, Limuru (50km from Nairobi), Olkajiado (45km from Nairobi), and Nyeri (115km from Nairobi).
Tell me more about flying into Kenya?
When do I need to arrive in Kenya?
The Kenya program has two volunteer intakes per month, on the 1st and the 15th. Volunteers fly into Nairobi and should arrive the day before, so they are ready to take part in a training program on these dates. Accommodation can be arranged for you if you arrive earlier than the day before orientation begins. You will have to pay your own expenses for any time you stay in Kenya outside of training and volunteer time.
How do I get to the project?
Orientation will be held in Nairobi. Volunteers will then be transferred to their program areas at the conclusion of training - this cost is included in the program fee.
Tell me more about the accommodation?
In most programs, volunteers will be accommodated in a Kenyan home stay. The children's program is the exception, where volunteers will either be in a home stay or dormitory situation. Host families have all been carefully selected to provide you with a safe family environment and an insight into Kenyan life.
I have relatives/friends in Kenya. Can I live with them while volunteering?
Do you make provision for special diets?
Are there holidays or festivals I should be aware of when traveling?
There are many festivals in Kenya, however this will not hinder your volunteering as when they are on you will most likely be invited to celebrate with everyone.
What age do I need to be to volunteer in this program?
You must be 18 years or older to volunteer. There is no upper limit for volunteers; we only require that volunteers are in good health.
Do I need a police clearance document to volunteer in this program?
Yes, all volunteers in this program will be required to provide a police clearance document. This is because volunteers will be working closely with children and other vulnerable individuals. To obtain a police clearance you will need to contact your local police station to find out what their procedure is. Normally, you will be asked to complete an application form authorizing the check to be done, pay a fee and a few weeks later the check will arrive in the mail. A copy of your police clearance will need to be sent to GVN before your placement begins and you will need to take the original with you when you volunteer.
What immunisations/vaccinations will I need?
This is a suggestion of what may be needed - please consult with your medical professional or travel specialist for more details.
- Hepatitis A & B
- Polio
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever
- Diphtheria and tetanus
- Rabies
- Meningococcal (meningitis)
- Cholera
- Malaria (needs to be closely discussed with doctor)
- Tuberculosis
Some of these can be taken in oral form so please discuss with your doctor to see what is best for you. Some people can be affected quite differently to others by medication.
How does GVN choose volunteers for this program?
Each GVN program has different criteria depending on our partner's requirements. Every application is reviewed to ensure that the minimum requirements (as set out on the program page) are met. Next we look to see what skills or experience you have that relate specifically to the program. We are also interested in any previous volunteer experience you may have (either local or international), travel experience, and your particular interest in the program.
After reviewing your application, should we require any further information from you, we will email you to request this.
Do I need to speak English to volunteer?
Yes, you need to speak English to volunteer. You may have English as your first or second language. Kenya's two main languages are English and Swahili. Unless you are hopelessly lost in the bush somewhere, you will probably be able to find someone who speaks English. It is also useful for volunteers to have a working knowledge of Swahili, especially outside the urban areas and in remote parts of the country.
Can I bring my own family with me to the program?
Volunteers are welcome to bring their family members with them on the program. Each application will be considered on a case by case basis. Partners will need to fill in their own application form if they wish to take part in the program.
Are there more expenses once I arrive?
How safe is it to volunteer in Kenya?
Kenya has a democratic electoral process and a stable economy. Political rallies such as those held in Nairobi and Kisumu in January 2008 and, before that, in July 2004, have become violent, however, and crime has increased. Travel advisories recommend that visitors exercise a high degree of caution, with some even recommending to avoid non-essential travel. While in Kenya, visitors should avoid rallies or demonstrations and stay aware of the current situation as the details and dates of rallies may change. Most volunteers will be accommodated in a home stay situation. The host families have all been carefully selected to provide you with a safe family environment and an insight into Kenyan life. As in many countries, foreigners are perceived as wealthy in Kenya. Although the people are generally warm and friendly towards foreigners, as well as appreciative of the work done by volunteers, not every individual is the same. We work extremely hard to ensure you are placed in safe environments while volunteering and security policies are in place to achieve this. However, as in any situation at home or abroad, there is no way to erase all potential threats.
How many volunteers are there on site at the same time?
What is the course content of the orientation?
What hours am I expected to take part in the program?
Is there the opportunity to take classes such as language or more cultural activities while on the program?
Are we able to do any sightseeing?
Volunteers staying 6 weeks or more are welcome to take short breaks during their volunteer time. We recognize that volunteering can be quite intensive. There are often other volunteers that want to do sightseeing also, however please wait until you are at least 2 weeks into your placement. If you plan to volunteer for less than 6 weeks, please arrange sightseeing trips for before or after your volunteering so as not to interrupt your placement work. You may like to travel to meet up with other volunteers and join in local festivities and explore your local surroundings. Safaris are a popular activity for many volunteers. Our partner organization is able to help you organize safari packages at competitive and special rates. We ask that if you wish to take a break from volunteering that you give our partner organisation advanced notice.
What clothing is appropriate for the program?
Considering the temperature, we recommend light coloured, cotton clothing that modestly covers your body (knee-length or longer). Along with comfortable sturdy footwear, a pair of sandals/jandals for light walking is also recommended. Don't forget sunglasses and a hat.
What resources will be available?
In most cases resources are limited. You may like to take donations of goods with you to distribute or use in the program. If you do choose to fundraise or donate items, please consult the list of suggested items in the Program Guide you will receive later. We recommend purchasing items in Kenya as transport can be difficult and expensive.
Can you tell me more about your partner in Kenya?
Our partner in Kenya is a local volunteer placement organisation that has been running since 2003. Our partner endeavors to tailor make placements to match a volunteer's point of interest. These programs are for persons interested in experiencing new places and interacting with different cultures, while learning the challenges faced by poor communities. They are specialized in assisting the community by connecting persons who are interested in voluntary work, with different deserving projects in Kenya.
Who organises my visa for my volunteer placement?
You will organise your visa through your travel agent or independently. For citizens of most countries, you can do this at the airport when you arrive or before you get to Kenya. Also, our detailed program guide includes links to Kenyan Embassies throughout the world.
Do I need travel insurance?
All GVN Volunteers must have insurance. You are free to take out insurance cover through any provider of your choice. However, as some policies do not cover volunteering, we recommend you check you are covered during your volunteer placement.
For your convenience we have arranged a comprehensive package specially designed for volunteering. It includes excellent medical and accident coverage as well as “loss of deposits” cover which covers fees paid to GVN, airlines etc. If you would like to learn more just follow this link: http://www.globalvolunteernetwork.org/insurance/
How do I pay my fees?
Your application fee secures your place on the program (remember this is fully transferable to a later date or different program if you decide not to take part in the program, subject to the terms of service). Your program fee is payable to Global Volunteer Network 12 weeks prior to the 1st of the month you wish to volunteer. Please note that all charges incurred by the payment of the program fee are at the volunteer’s expense, e.g. if a bank transfer incurs a bank fee at the point of origin, that is at the expense of the volunteer. Eighty percent (80%) of your program fee is refundable until one calendar month before the 1st of the month you are due to begin your program. Refer to GVN's legal terms of service for full details.
Volunteer Diaries
first day feb 2
Thursday, February 02nd, 2012
so that was the longest plane ride of my life, but it was quite comfortable. MN to amsterdam they had 2 full course meals and then they had a tv screen in the seat in front of u, u could pick movies, games and music I basicly caught up on all the comedies I missed. [click here to read more]
first post day before I get on plane
Monday, January 30th, 2012
so I got everything packed I am gettin a lil nervous get on the plane tomorow at 830 am prob won’t post again until I get there thank you everybody for ur support I started takin my maleria meds today they didn’t make me sick so that’s good I bought a wind chome for my [click here to read more]
Kiberia, Uganda, Kwaheri Kenya!
Monday, November 28th, 2011
Last weekend Kate, Antonio, Jason and I went to Kibera slum which is the biggest slum in Kenya, second biggest in all of Africa. The biggest is in South Africa. We caught matatus into the slum and a man named Peter came to meet us and show us around. He is the first Kenyan to [click here to read more]
Please visit journals.globalvolunteernetwork.org for more journals and feedback from past volunteers
How to Apply
Program Requirements
Volunteers for this program must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Have no major health problems
- A medical qualification is required for the Medical/Health program
- Related experience is required for the HIV/AIDS program
- Some previous experience is required for the teaching programs
- Teaching and Maasailand programs require a 1 month commitment
- Be eligible to obtain a tourist visa to Kenya
- Obtain a police check from your home country prior to volunteering
The Application Process
Your application process is free and seamless, and if you are successful we will provide you with a choice of application fee payment options that include a secure online service. We also are one of the few organisations that allow you to transfer your application fee to another program at no extra cost.
Communication & Support:
Throughout the process, we are committed to working with you to answer any of your questions or concerns. During your placement we are also available as a form of support to you as a volunteer and will email you while in country to discuss how the program is going.
Volunteer Feedback
Marilyn
"It is impressive to realize the potential GVN has to effect positive change. By bringing in people like me from various areas of the world, you are able to raise consciousness, and we can all return home and the "ripple effect" is put into play. I sent a donation yesterday for Terry Support Home via Courtney Montague; I plan to do some public speaking which will raise more monies to help the orphanage in Machakos. Obviously, this scenario plays out everywhere. And then there is the positive financial effect for those associated with the safaris, the drivers, the host families, etc. You hold more potential than perhaps you can even imagine! I wish you all much success at GVN."
Lisa
"My experience in Kenya has been unlike any other in my lifetime. I have discovered more than I ever thought about Kenyan culture, food, history, lifestyle, geography and adventure. I have gone from emotions of anxious to discovery, from sadness to happiness. I have truly been able to fix myself in another culture and social life. Kenyans are the most generous and friendly people I have ever met on the face of earth. This has been an eye opening experience that I know I will never forget. I feel privileged to have had the chance to participate in such a program."
Laura
"I had a great experience in Kenya. I was very scared leaving home which is my comfort zone and now I have no regrets for my adventure in Kenya. I came across so many things which have helped me grow mentally and emotionally. I have experienced a different culture which I have come to love. I truly suggest anyone who has ever thought about seeing and experiencing new things to take the leap of faith and come to Africa. This is a trip of a lifetime that I will never forget. Most people in Kenya made this trip a pleasure to my life. I have never experienced some things and what I experienced it taught me a lot. Everybody who crosses your path is very welcoming and friendly. Living with host families have really given me the inside look of how life really is and all the hardships that come with life. I have discovered another life and I have seen how precious the life is. Most of us in the western world have been taking life for granted but if you take a trip to Kenya you will really appreciate life."
Articles
American Idol Gives Back
This article has been published at Evidence of Humanity. Adrienne is a fifty something wife, mother of two adult children and trained Kindergarten teacher who suffers from a chronic lung condition and migraines. Yet she has recently returned from six...
From the Safari to the Slum: Choose Volunteering
This article was first published in Street Spirit magazine, The Worldly and Go Nomad. As tourists wear their shades...
News From Kenya
Early Childhood Development Education in Rongai
30 Nov 2010
A volunteer set up an Early Childhood Development Education (ECD) in Giwa farm in Rongai, the project is supporting around 70 children from Giwa Farm IDP camp and Matharu IDP camp.
Water system improving soon
30 Nov 2010
A volunteer helped in forming self-help groups at Kikoppey IDP camp which made it easier for the group to be managed. The same volunteer conducted evaluation on the water situation in the camp, results were passed onto an organisation willing to support a project to improve the water system. It’s hoped this will be underway by the end of this year.
A farm to feed and educate
30 Nov 2010
Volunteers at Nangolie Children orphanage, has set up a horticulture farming in the orphanage over an area of 1 acre. Produce grown will be used to generate income and feed the children. Through this project they are also training the children and community on how productive this kind of farming can be.
Market plans in Akuru
30 Nov 2010
Volunteers took products made by the people of pipeline IDP camp to a local trade fair in Akuru Town for promotion and marketing.
Application Form
Why Volunteer
At GVN we align with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', so we work with local community organisations in each country. What this means for our volunteers is that they receive a unique and genuine cultural experience whilst being immersed in a local community.
If you're
- Graduating from school and not sure which direction to take, or you're not ready to jump into full-time employment just yet;
- Ready for a Career Break;
- An 'empty nester';
- Retired;
- Or ready for a change or new adventure
Volunteering abroad could be the very thing for YOU!
If you're looking for something worthwhile to do volunteering will give you the opportunity to travel whilst making a difference in the community you are based in.
Did you know taking a Gap Year can improve your college admission chances and success rate during your studies?
"Harvard College encourages admitted students to defer enrolment for one year to travel, pursue a special project or activity, work, or spend time in another meaningful way" – Harvard College Office of Admissions, 2010.
International volunteering is a great way to gain experience living in a developing country, learning about another culture and experiencing a different way of life. It is a fantastic way to grow as a person, to develop life skills, self-confidence and self-esteem, and is a tool for self discovery and identity formation.
Other personal benefits include, developing international friendships and networks, social awareness, and building independence.
Volunteering can increase your employability, help you to gain valuable work experience and enhance your CV/resume.
"Going to a foreign country for a volunteer experience is a huge boost on a resume. Employers love to see a person that can think outside the box and work past their comfort zone. The added benefits of teamwork, foreign language knowledge, and plain old hard work also add polish to the volunteer candidate. Since business now happens on a global scale, the volunteer is armed with useful, and potentially actionable, information." – USA Today, 2010.
Reputable Charity
The Global Volunteer Network (GVN) is a New Zealand Charitable Trust (non-profit NGO) based in Wellington, New Zealand. Our Charitable incorporation number is: CC46460. GVN has been verified and approved by Idealist (the largest volunteer portal on the internet. GVN is also a member of the World Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (WANGO), and our ‘sister’ organization the GVN Foundation has been granted special consultative status on the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Prestigious web sites such as Lonely Planet and Goabroad.com have placed web links to us. Additionally, when you apply, we can provide you with contact information for previous volunteers if you wish. GVN is also an approved member of the Site Trust Network and you can view our verification page.
Recommended by Bill Gates
Bill Gates personally recommended GVN by stating "I'd love to see more young people taking action to help the poor and disadvantaged. Two places to get started are Network for Good and Global Volunteer Network." Newsweek Web
Proven Track Record
To give you peace of mind, GVN has over eight years experience and has placed 13,500+ volunteers since 2002. Read volunteer's journals and testimonials or speak to a returned volunteer directly about their experience abroad through GVN.
Volunteer Support
GVN’s specialist staff provide personal support to volunteers, assisting not only with preparation for your placement, but whilst in-country, and follow-up on return home. GVN provides comprehensive Program Guides, project resources (eg teaching resources).
Community Focussed
GVN aligns with the idea of 'local solutions to local problems', therefore we work with local community organisations in each country. We believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and we provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.
Recommended by CNN
CNN listed the Global Volunteer Network as one of 10 organizations that can help you to make a positive impact on the world around you. CNN encourages you to visit our website to get more details on how you too can Be The Change.
Personal Security
GVN offer an insurance package tailored specifically for volunteers. Partner’s staff are always available (24hr/7days), along with this GVN also has a 24hr/7day emergency hotline.
Kenya. 
Vietnam. 
Peru. 
Nepal. 
