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A Broader View Volunteers

Volunteer Abroad FAQ | A Broader View (ABV)

Answers to common questions about volunteering abroad with A Broader View. Costs, safety, application process, programs, and what’s included.

Below are the most frequently asked questions, and answers, about A Broader View. If you do not find an answer to your question, please feel free to email or call us. We would be happy to discuss the details of our volunteer programs. You can read more details about this in the Volunteer Service Contract donwload the pdf here.

About Abroaderview

Q: Are program fees tax-deductible? A: Yes. A Broader View Volunteers is a registered USA-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN 26-0594308). Program fees and travel expenses directly related to your volunteer work may qualify as tax-deductible charitable contributions for US taxpayers. We provide official tax receipts for your records.

Q: What is included in the volunteer program fees? A: Program fees are comprehensive and cover your accommodation (homestay or volunteer house), 2-3 daily local meals, airport meet-and-greet pickup and drop-off, pre-departure preparation, project placement, and 24/7 in-country local support.

Q: What expenses are NOT included in the program fee? A: The program fee does not include international airfare, mandatory travel medical insurance, passport/visa fees, required vaccinations, daily local transportation to the project site, or personal spending money for souvenirs and weekend travel.

Q: How safe is it to volunteer abroad with A Broader View? A: Participant safety is our primary focus. We utilize thoroughly vetted local partner organizations, secure housing, detailed on-site orientations, and maintain 24/7 emergency support channels managed by our experienced local coordinators in all 33 countries.

Q: Do I need prior experience or foreign language skills? A: No prior experience or foreign language fluency is required for most of our 168 programs. Placements are customized to match your current skill level, and our local coordinators provide on-site translation assistance and project orientation.

Q: How can I fundraise or get financial help for my trip? A: A Broader View provides registered volunteers with a personalized online fundraising platform. You can share your custom campaign link with friends, family, and local businesses to collect tax-deductible donations directly toward your program fees.

Q: What kind of projects will I be working on as a volunteer? A: A Broader View offers 345 specific projects across 168 programs. Volunteer options include teaching English, medical and dental shadowing, wildlife conservation, orphanage support, women’s empowerment, and community development.

Q: Will I work independently or as part of a team? A: Depending on the specific project and the season, you may work alongside other international volunteers, partner directly with local staff, or manage tasks independently under the supervision of a local coordinator.

Q: What are the typical working hours for volunteers? A: Volunteers generally work 4 to 8 hours a day, Monday through Friday. Schedules vary by project location, leaving your evenings and weekends free for cultural immersion and local sightseeing.

Q: Can I work on multiple projects while I'm there? A: Yes. In many of our 33 destination countries, you can split your daily schedule between two different projects (e.g., teaching English in the morning and assisting at an orphanage in the afternoon).

Q: How do I communicate with the local community? A: You will communicate using a mix of basic local language, assistance from our English-speaking local coordinators, and non-verbal communication. We also offer optional language immersion classes in many Latin American destinations.

Q: Will I get any training before starting my project? A: Yes. Upon arrival, your local coordinator will provide a comprehensive in-country orientation covering safety protocols, cultural norms, local transportation, and specific training for your assigned project duties.

Q: Will my work really make a difference? A: Yes. Because A Broader View partners directly with grassroots community leaders, our projects are designed to meet genuine, ongoing local needs rather than creating artificial tasks for volunteers.

Q: Can I bring donations for the community? A: Yes, material donations are highly encouraged. We recommend contacting us prior to departure so we can advise you on the most urgent current needs (such as school supplies, basic first aid, or specific clothing) for your project location.

Q: Will I have time to travel and explore during my program? A: Yes. Your volunteer work takes place on weekdays, leaving your weekends entirely free to book local tours, explore historical sites, and travel regionally with other volunteers.

Q: What is a typical day like as a volunteer? A: A typical day involves waking up for breakfast at your accommodation, traveling to your project site for 4-6 hours of scheduled volunteer work, having lunch locally, and returning in the late afternoon for free time and dinner with your host family.

Q: Can I travel with a friend or family member? A: Yes. A Broader View accommodates couples, friends, families, and university groups. Just indicate your travel companion on your application, and we will ensure you are placed in the same housing and project.

Q: What if I get sick during my trip? A: If you become ill, our local coordinators will immediately assist you in accessing vetted local medical care, clinics, or hospitals. Mandatory travel insurance ensures your medical expenses will be covered.

Q: Can I bring my laptop and other devices? A: Yes, you can bring laptops and smartphones. Most of our homestays and volunteer houses have Wi-Fi, though speeds may be slower than you are accustomed to in developing nations.

Q: Is there a dress code for the program? A: Yes, volunteers must adhere to a modest, culturally appropriate dress code. This generally means avoiding excessively tight or revealing clothing, and wearing scrubs or business casual attire for medical and teaching placements.

Q: Can I receive a certificate after completing my program? A: Yes. Upon successful completion of your volunteer program, A Broader View issues an official Certificate of Volunteer Service detailing your logged hours, which can be used for academic credit or resume building.

Q: How do I prepare for cultural differences? A: We provide comprehensive pre-departure guides covering cultural etiquette, customs, and safety. Staying open-minded, adaptable, and respectful of local traditions is the best way to handle culture shock.

Q: Can I customize my program start date? A: Yes. A Broader View programs offer highly flexible, year-round start dates. You can choose any start date that aligns with your flights and personal schedule.

Q: How are projects selected to ensure community need? A: All projects are initiated by local community leaders who submit requests for assistance. A Broader View only places volunteers in facilities that have an established, long-term need for supplementary support.

Q: What is the process for applying for a visa? A: Visa requirements depend on your nationality and destination. A Broader View provides detailed visa guidelines in your pre-departure portal, helping you secure tourist or volunteer visas where required.

Q: What kind of pre-departure training do you offer? A: Once registered, you gain access to an extensive online dashboard containing country-specific manuals, packing lists, health and safety guidelines, and direct contact with our US-based support team.

Q: Are there any specific clothing or supplies I should bring? A: Yes. We provide a customized packing list based on your specific destination and project. Medical volunteers usually need scrubs, while conservation volunteers need sturdy boots and insect repellent.

Q: How can I stay in touch with family and friends while abroad? A: You can easily stay connected using apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime via Wi-Fi at your accommodation, or by purchasing an inexpensive local SIM card with a data plan upon arrival.

Q: What is the minimum age requirement to volunteer abroad? A: Independent volunteers must be at least 17 years old (with parental consent) or 18+ depending on the program. Children as young as 12 can volunteer if they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Q: Are flights included in the A Broader View program fee? A: No, international airfare is not included. Volunteers are responsible for booking their own round-trip flights, which allows you the flexibility to use airline miles and choose your preferred travel dates and routes.

Q: Do you offer programs specifically for medical and nursing students? A: Yes. We offer highly structured pre-med, nursing, dental, and public health shadowing programs in countries like Honduras, Peru, and Tanzania, allowing students to observe and assist licensed local healthcare professionals.

Q: How early should I apply for my volunteer program? A: We recommend applying 2 to 6 months before your intended start date. This provides ample time to secure affordable flights, apply for necessary visas, schedule vaccinations, and organize fundraising efforts.

Q: Is A Broader View a religious organization? A: No. A Broader View is a strictly non-religious, non-political 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and provide aid based solely on community need.

Q: Can I earn college credit or complete an internship through A Broader View? A: Yes. Many universities accept our structured volunteer programs as academic internships or practicum requirements. We gladly sign required university paperwork and provide official hour logs and evaluations.

Q: What types of accommodations are provided during the trip? A: Volunteers typically stay with middle-class local host families, providing deep cultural immersion. In select locations, volunteers stay in dedicated, secure volunteer guesthouses or on-site project dormitories.

Q: Are meals provided, and can you accommodate dietary restrictions? A: Yes, 2 to 3 local meals are provided daily. Our host families and local staff can successfully accommodate most dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and specific food allergies, if notified in advance.

Q: Who will pick me up at the airport when I arrive? A: An official A Broader View local coordinator or designated driver will be waiting at the airport arrivals terminal holding a sign with your name, ensuring a safe and immediate transfer to your accommodation.

Q: Are A Broader View programs suitable for older adults and retirees? A: Absolutely. Retirees and senior professionals bring invaluable life experience and specialized skills to our projects. Our host family accommodations provide the comfort and security older volunteers prefer.

Q: Can high school students volunteer abroad? A: Yes. High school students aged 17 can travel independently with parental consent. We also organize customized, chaperone-led group trips for high school clubs and classrooms.

Q: What happens if I need to cancel or change my program dates? A: A Broader View offers flexible date changes. If you need to delay your trip, your program fee can generally be held in credit for future use. Specific refund policies are outlined in our terms and conditions.

Q: Is travel insurance mandatory for volunteers? A: Yes. Comprehensive travel medical and evacuation insurance is strictly mandatory for all participants. We provide recommendations for affordable providers during your pre-departure process.

Q: Do I need specific vaccinations before traveling? A: Vaccination requirements vary by country. We advise all volunteers to consult the CDC or WHO websites and visit a local travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before departure to receive recommended immunizations.

Q: Can I volunteer if I am not a US citizen? A: Yes. A Broader View welcomes international volunteers from all over the world, including Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia, and Asia.

Q: How long do volunteer programs typically last? A: Program durations are highly flexible, ranging from short-term 1-week impact trips up to 12-week immersive placements, allowing you to fit volunteering into spring breaks, summer vacations, or gap years.

Q: Will I have access to clean drinking water? A: Yes. We ensure all volunteers have access to safe, purified, or boiled drinking water at their accommodations and project sites to prevent waterborne illnesses.

Q: What kind of in-country support is available if I have an issue? A: Every destination has a dedicated, locally-based A Broader View Program Director. They provide 24/7 on-the-ground support to resolve any housing, project, or medical issues instantly.

Q: Are the host families vetted and background-checked? A: Yes. All host families undergo a rigorous vetting process, including home inspections, reference checks, and ongoing performance evaluations based on feedback from previous volunteers.

Q: Do you provide letters of recommendation after the program? A: Yes. Upon successful completion of your program, our US office can provide an official letter of recommendation highlighting your specific contributions, which is excellent for college applications and resumes.

Q: Can I split my time between two different countries? A: Yes. Many gap year students and long-term travelers choose a multi-country itinerary (e.g., 4 weeks in Costa Rica followed by 4 weeks in Peru). We can help seamlessly coordinate these cross-border logistics.

Q: How is the money from my program fee distributed? A: The majority of your fee goes directly to the local economy to pay for your housing, meals, airport transfers, and local staff salaries. A smaller percentage supports ABV’s USA operations, web infrastructure, and charity administration.

Q: Are there opportunities for corporate or group volunteering? A: Yes. We organize bespoke group itineraries for corporate teams, university medical chapters, and church groups. We handle all ground logistics, allowing the group to focus on team-building and impact.

Q: Do I need an international driver's license? A: No. Volunteers are strictly prohibited from driving vehicles or riding motorcycles during our programs for safety and liability reasons. You will use safe, vetted local public transport or walking.

Q: Are there specific programs for gap year students? A: Yes. We offer specialized long-term placements ideal for gap year students looking to build independence, learn a language, and gain real-world experience before entering university or the workforce.

Q: What is the maximum age limit for volunteering? A: There is no maximum age limit. As long as you are in good health, possess a positive attitude, and have the physical mobility required for your chosen destination, we welcome you to volunteer.

Q: Does A Broader View have child-safeguarding policies in place? A: Yes. We maintain strict child protection policies. We do not support "orphanage tourism," and all volunteers working with vulnerable children must provide a clean criminal background check before arrival.

Q: Can I contact past volunteers before I apply? A: Yes. A Broader View maintains an extensive alumni network. We can connect you with past volunteers who have completed the exact program you are considering so you can ask them direct questions.

Q: Do you provide a packing list for my specific destination? A: Yes. Your online ABV portal includes a comprehensive, climate-specific packing checklist outlining exactly what clothing, toiletries, adapters, and project supplies you will need for your destination.

Finances & Administration

Q: Can I pay my program fees in installments? A: Yes. A Broader View Volunteers allows participants to pay their program fees in flexible installments. After submitting your initial application deposit, you can make partial payments at your own pace, provided the final balance is cleared 45 days prior to your official start date.

Q: How much daily spending money should I bring? A: We generally recommend bringing $30 to $50 USD per week for personal expenses. Because A Broader View program fees cover your core housing, meals, and daily logistics, this extra spending money is only needed for bottled water, snacks, souvenirs, and local public transit.

Q: Should I bring cash, or can I rely on local ATMs? A: We recommend bringing a small amount of USD or Euros for airport transit, but relying on local ATMs for daily currency. ATMs offer the best exchange rates and are widely available in the urban hubs of our 33 destination countries.

Q: Are there any hidden fees or separate application charges? A: No. A Broader View maintains complete financial transparency. There are no hidden application fees or unexpected surcharges. The published program fee on our website covers all your in-country logistics, and you will receive a detailed invoice for your tax-deductible charitable travel.

Q: Can I transfer my program deposit to a friend or family member? A: Yes. If you are unable to travel due to unforeseen circumstances, A Broader View allows you to transfer your initial deposit to a friend, family member, or classmate, provided they meet the program requirements and pass our standard application vetting process.

Q: Do corporate matching gift programs apply to my volunteer fee? A: Yes. Because A Broader View is a registered 501(c)(3) charity (EIN 26-0594308), many corporate employers will match your program fee payments or fundraising efforts. We routinely provide the necessary W-9 forms and tax letters required by corporate HR departments to process matching funds.

Q: Can I use third-party crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe? A: Yes, you can use external platforms, but we highly recommend using A Broader View’s built-in fundraising platform. Donations made through our internal platform go directly toward your balance and guarantee donors receive instant 501(c)(3) tax-deductible receipts, which third-party sites cannot always provide.

Q: What currency is used to pay the final program balance? A: All program fees and donations to A Broader View Volunteers are processed in United States Dollars (USD). International volunteers can pay using major credit cards or PayPal, and your local bank will automatically handle the currency conversion at their current exchange rate.

Health, Safety & Accommodations

Q: Are solo female travelers safe on these programs? A: Absolutely. The majority of our annual volunteers are solo female travelers. A Broader View ensures safety by providing vetted host families, pre-arranged airport transfers, conservative dress code guidelines, and continuous monitoring by our 24/7 in-country local coordinators.

Q: Do you accommodate LGBTQ+ volunteers? A: Yes. A Broader View is an inclusive, non-discriminatory organization. However, cultural attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community vary significantly across our 33 destination countries. Our US-based support team provides confidential, destination-specific advice to ensure your safety and comfort during your placement.

Q: Can couples request to share a private room? A: Yes. Married couples and established partners volunteering together can request a private room. Our local coordinators will place you with a vetted host family or in a volunteer guesthouse that can accommodate private living arrangements for couples.

Q: How do I handle laundry during my volunteer stay? A: Laundry logistics vary by location. In most homestays, you can pay a small fee (usually $2-$5) for the host family to wash your clothes, or you can use nearby local laundromats. We recommend packing lightweight, quick-drying clothing for easy maintenance.

Q: Can you accommodate severe, life-threatening food allergies? A: While our host families successfully manage common diets (vegan, gluten-free), managing severe anaphylactic allergies (e.g., extreme peanut allergies) can be challenging in developing nations due to cross-contamination. Please contact our US office to evaluate which specific destinations have the infrastructure to safely accommodate you.

Q: How do I manage my prescription medications while abroad? A: You should pack enough of your prescribed medication in clearly labeled, original pharmacy bottles to last your entire trip, plus a few extra days. Always carry critical medications in your carry-on luggage, and bring a copy of your doctor's written prescription.

Q: Do you provide support for volunteers experiencing severe culture shock? A: Yes. Culture shock is a normal part of international volunteering. Our local coordinators are trained to help volunteers navigate emotional fatigue and homesickness, providing empathy, practical advice, and a safe space to discuss challenges adjusting to the local environment.

Q: Is there a nightly curfew at the volunteer housing? A: Yes. To respect the routine of your host family and ensure your safety, A Broader View enforces a reasonable nightly curfew (typically between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM). Overnight absences are only permitted if pre-approved for weekend travel excursions.

Q: Am I allowed to drink alcohol or smoke during the program? A: Alcohol consumption and smoking are strictly prohibited at the project sites, inside volunteer housing, and during working hours. Responsible, moderate drinking is permitted during free time for volunteers of legal age, provided it does not disrupt the program or local community.

Q: What is the protocol for political unrest or natural disasters? A: A Broader View actively monitors global security via the US State Department. In the event of a natural disaster or political instability, our local coordinators enact emergency protocols, secure volunteers in safe housing, coordinate with embassies, and arrange immediate evacuation if necessary.

Q: What happens if I miss my connecting flight and arrive late? A: If your flight is delayed or missed, you must immediately contact the A Broader View 24/7 emergency support line. We will adjust your airport pickup schedule and notify your local coordinator so they are waiting for you upon your rescheduled arrival.

Q: Can my parents or spouse call the US office in an emergency? A: Yes. A Broader View maintains a 24/7 emergency contact line based in the USA. Family members can reach our executive staff at any time, and we can instantly connect with our in-country directors to check on your status and relay urgent messages.

Application, Prep & Logistics

Q: How do I obtain the required criminal background check? A: US citizens can obtain a background check through their local police department or an online vendor like Checkr. International volunteers must provide a clear police clearance certificate from their home country. This is a mandatory child-safeguarding requirement for all programs.

Q: Can I apply if I have a previous criminal record? A: Approvals depend on the nature of the offense. A Broader View strictly rejects any applicants with violent crimes, sexual offenses, or child abuse charges. Minor, non-violent infractions from the distant past are evaluated on a case-by-case basis by our US directors.

Q: Do I need to be interviewed before being accepted? A: Formal interviews are not required for most standard volunteer placements. However, our program advisors review every application manually and will contact you by phone or email if we need to clarify your qualifications, medical history, or suitability for specialized medical projects.

Q: How quickly will my volunteer application be processed? A: Applications are typically reviewed and processed within 24 to 48 hours. Once accepted, you will receive an official welcome email containing your login credentials to the A Broader View volunteer portal, allowing you to begin your pre-departure preparations immediately.

Q: How will I commute from my host family to the project site? A: Commute methods vary by destination. You may walk, take a local bus, or use a regulated taxi or tuk-tuk. Your local coordinator will teach you the safest, most efficient daily commute route during your comprehensive in-country orientation on your first day.

Q: Can I work remotely at my regular job while volunteering? A: Yes, provided it does not interfere with your 4 to 8 hours of daily volunteer commitments. Many homestays have Wi-Fi, but digital nomads should expect occasional power outages or slower speeds, and may need to utilize local internet cafes for high-bandwidth tasks.

Q: Can I bring a drone to film my volunteer experience? A: Drone regulations vary strictly by country, and many nations confiscate unregistered drones at customs. Furthermore, filming vulnerable communities requires explicit consent. You must clear any drone usage with A Broader View and local authorities prior to your departure.

Q: Should I bring a gift for my host family? A: Bringing a small, culturally appropriate gift is a wonderful icebreaker but not mandatory. We suggest bringing something unique from your hometown, such as a local t-shirt, a coffee mug, chocolates, or a small toy if the host family has young children.

Q: Are the volunteer programs available during major holidays like Christmas? A: Yes. A Broader View operates year-round, including major holidays. Volunteering during Christmas or Easter offers a unique cultural exchange, allowing you to participate in local traditional celebrations with your host family. Project hours may be modified on actual public holidays.

Q: Will there be other international volunteers on my project? A: This depends on the season and destination. During peak months (May through August), it is highly likely you will work alongside other A Broader View volunteers. During off-peak months, you may be the only international volunteer, working directly with local community staff.

Project Specifics & Rules

Q: Can I change my project if I am not satisfied upon arrival? A: Yes. If you feel your project placement is not a good fit for your skills, speak immediately with your local coordinator. A Broader View will make every reasonable effort to reassess your placement and transfer you to a more suitable active project nearby.

Q: Can I switch my host family if it’s not a good fit? A: Yes. If there is a legitimate safety, hygiene, or severe compatibility issue, our local coordinators will swiftly relocate you to a different vetted host family or volunteer house to ensure your comfort and well-being.

Q: Can I extend my volunteer trip once I am already in the country? A: Yes. Many volunteers choose to extend their stay after falling in love with the community. You simply contact the US office to pay the weekly extension fee, and we will coordinate the continued housing and project logistics with the local team.

Q: Will I get a refund if I decide to leave the program early? A: No. Because A Broader View commits funds in advance to local host families and community projects to ensure stability, we do not offer refunds for voluntary early departures. Travel insurance may cover trip interruption costs if you leave due to a covered medical emergency.

Q: Do I need a TEFL or TESOL certification to teach English? A: No. Formal teaching certifications are not required for our conversational English programs. Volunteers act as teaching assistants or lead conversational exercises. A Broader View provides basic teaching resources, though bringing your own flashcards and lesson ideas is highly encouraged.

Q: Do medical volunteers need to purchase malpractice insurance? A: No. Our medical and dental programs operate on a strictly observational and shadowing basis for students. Because you will not be performing independent medical procedures, you do not need international medical malpractice insurance.

Q: Can I bring expired medical supplies to donate to local clinics? A: No. While clinics desperately need supplies, customs regulations strictly prohibit the importation of expired medications or compromised medical tools. A Broader View can provide a list of currently needed, unexpired medical supplies you can legally bring as donations.

Q: Are the wildlife conservation projects ethical and hands-off? A: Yes. A Broader View adheres to strict ethical wildlife guidelines. Our animal conservation projects focus on habitat restoration, anti-poaching efforts, and veterinary rehabilitation. We do not support unethical wildlife tourism, and interactions with wild animals are strictly limited to necessary rehabilitation care.

Q: How intense are the optional Spanish language immersion classes? A: Language classes are highly customized. You can add 1 to 4 hours of daily one-on-one or small-group Spanish lessons to your itinerary in countries like Costa Rica, Peru, and Ecuador. The curriculum is tailored to your starting level, from absolute beginner to advanced medical Spanish.

Q: Do I book my weekend excursions through A Broader View? A: A Broader View manages your weekday volunteer logistics, but your weekends are free time. You will book weekend excursions, safaris, and local tours independently. Our local coordinators are happy to recommend safe, reputable, and affordable local tour operators upon your arrival.

Q: Do you offer specialized programs for professional skill-based volunteering? A: Yes. Beyond standard projects, we welcome professionals with specialized skills in IT, web design, marketing, agriculture, and structural engineering to assist local NGOs with capacity building. Please mention your professional skills during the application process so we can match you appropriately.

Q: Can I use A Broader View to complete court-ordered community service? A: No. A Broader View Volunteers does not accept participants seeking to fulfill court-ordered community service requirements stemming from legal infractions or criminal sentencing.

Post-Trip & Alumni

Q: Are there discounts for returning A Broader View alumni? A: Yes. We deeply value our returning volunteers. Alumni who have successfully completed a previous program with A Broader View receive an automatic discount on their program fees for all future trips, regardless of the destination.

Q: Can I keep in contact with my host family after I leave? A: Absolutely. We highly encourage ongoing cultural exchange. Many volunteers stay in close touch with their host families via social media and WhatsApp for years, and some even return to visit them on subsequent trips to the country.

Q: Do I need to tip my host family or local coordinator? A: Tipping is not required or expected, as they are fairly compensated through your program fee. However, if you feel they provided exceptional care, leaving a modest financial tip or a heartfelt thank-you card upon your departure is a welcome gesture of appreciation.

Q: How do you ensure the sustainability of projects when volunteers leave? A: Sustainability is built into our operational model. Because A Broader View maintains year-round partnerships and a continuous flow of volunteers to 345 specific projects, local leaders can rely on consistent, long-term support rather than brief, disruptive interventions.

Q: Do you organize virtual volunteering opportunities? A: While our primary focus is immersive travel, A Broader View occasionally facilitates virtual volunteering tasks, such as remote website translation, grant writing, or digital marketing support for our international NGO partners. Contact our US office for current virtual opportunities.

Q: How can I become an ambassador for A Broader View after my trip? A: Alumni can join the A Broader View Ambassador Program by sharing their experiences at university study-abroad fairs, writing blog posts, and promoting programs on social media. Active ambassadors help expand our 501(c)(3) mission and can earn referral credits toward future volunteer trips.

Q: Can I bring my toddler or infant to volunteer with me? A: Volunteering with infants or toddlers is generally not permitted due to the lack of specialized childcare at project sites and the complexities of local transportation. However, we enthusiastically welcome family groups with older children (aged 12 and up).

Q: Do I need to be a registered student to do a medical shadowing program? A: No. While popular with pre-med and nursing students, our healthcare shadowing programs are open to anyone seriously considering a career transition into the medical field, as well as fully licensed professionals looking to provide clinical assistance.

Travelers Against Plastic

TAP is an outreach initiative which aims to educate global travelers about the harmful impacts of using disposable plastics and therefore encourage them to travel prepared. Our vision is to catalyze a self-sustaining global movement to reduce travelers’ use and dependence on disposable plastics.

Volunteer information

Volunteer Schedule

Day One: Our local coordinator/staff will give you an orientation and will accompany you to your program. You will be shown how to manage the commute (bus, taxi, walking). You will be introduced to the site director and discuss your role at the project. Volunteers typically work a morning and an afternoon shift each lasting about 3-5 hours.

Weekdays: A typical volunteer day is as follows:

  • 7:30 AM Breakfast at the volunteer house/homestay.
  • 8:00 AM Volunteers depart, and travel to their project site.
  • 8:30 AM to 13:00 PM Volunteer work and a lunch break.
  • 14:00 PM to 17:00 PM Language lessons or afternoon volunteer work.
  • 18:30-19:30 PM Dinner at the volunteer house/homestay.

Note: This is an example schedule. Volunteer work hours can vary depending on the program and the location.

Evenings: For peace of mind and to ensure the well-being of our volunteers, a nightly curfew of 21:30PM is in place from Sunday to Thursday. Curfew is set at 12:00AM for Friday and Saturday. (All volunteers must comply with their home country’s legal drinking age).

Communication While Overseas

Volunteers have several ways to stay in touch with their family/friends back home and with the ABV local staff while they are overseas. All city/urban program locations have access to internet/cyber cafes which typically charge hourly rates ($1-$2). The majority of ABV guesthouses, homestays have WIFI access (fees apply), and have land line telephone numbers. Even rural program locations have mobile phone service, and small towns nearby with internet facilities. All ABV staff use mobile phones to stay in contact with their volunteers.

Before traveling volunteers should contact their mobile phone provider and ask about international call/texting plans. Volunteers should consider buying a portable wifi device (especially in rural locations). If planning on traveling with your own mobile phone volunteers should look at apps like Skype, FaceTime and WhatsApp to stay connected through messenger or short calls home. Volunteers can rent a wireless phone or buy a cheap throwaway phone once they arrive in-country. In some locations you can do that for less than $50. In fact, your regular carrier may even offer overseas rentals. ABV local staff will assist you and show you where to purchase SIM cards.

Once you arrive in-country and settled in, our ABV staff will help you contact home to let someone know you arrived safely. All volunteers are also given an emergency phone number on their Volunteer Guide/summary, which is available 24/7 to contact ABV staff.

When can I travel?

Easy. Choose the dates that work best for you. Although some programs have date restrictions the majority of our volunteer programs are available year round. Volunteers select their own program start date and complete an online application. Once you have been accepted and dates approved, ABV will ask you to confirm your registration by paying a us$120 included in the overall fee.

Safety and Security

The safety of our volunteers is paramount for A Broader View Volunteers. The majority of ABV Volunteers travel and serve without major incident. However, programs are based in some of the least developed countries and in some of the most remote areas in the world, health, safety, and security risks are an unavoidable part of life and international service. To address these concerns and to safeguard the well-being of our program participants, A Broader View has safety protocols and security procedures for all programs:

  • Security: All project sites, local in-country staff and accommodation sites have gone through a rigorous filter and have been hand selected. ABV has spent almost 17 years cultivating and strengthening of our local partnerships & host family relationships. In-country staff visits, daily research of local conditions, as well as weekly checkup of our host families and accommodations are conducted. Site selection is based on criteria including; access to medical, banking, postal, and other essential services; access to communication, transportation, and local markets; availability of adequate housing and living arrangements.
  • Pre-Departure Guide: Your ABV account will have a detailed volunteer guide. Volunteers are provided country information, packing lists, customs and language information, and much more. ABV also provides information about visa requirements, vaccinations, climate, weather, and safety and security issues specific to the country.
  • Volunteer Summary: A full month before traveling volunteers are provided a detailed account of their volunteer project (including supply/donation list), arrival procedures, emergency contact information, accommodation details and the full name, phone and email of their local ABV Coordinator.
  • Overseas Staff and communication: Our local staff support is immeasurable in their professionalism and dedication to the volunteers under their charge. The majority of ABV staff coordinators have been involved since the very start (over 11 years) and are well experienced handling the unexpected such as situations where volunteer students become ill, suffer accidents, are the victims of pick pockets. ABV staff is trained to react in a responsible and levelheaded way when emergencies do arise. They will do whatever is necessary to assure this, whether this means obtaining prompt and appropriate medical attention, embassy intervention or local authorities.
  • Host Families and accommodations: Our local volunteer guesthouses, onsite project dorms and host families have been hand-picked. A Broader View accommodation have specific standards for the hygiene, cleanliness, location and comfortable living conditions for our volunteers. Telephone access is available 24/7 and most sites have internet access. Volunteers have to follow the curfew of the host accommodation.
  • Arrival Meeting/Orientation: ABV programs provide a customized arrival plan. We can arrange your arrival/pick up at the airport, bus station or local hotel. Start your program with peace of mind, having the local ABV staff meeting you when you arrive in-country. Volunteers are provided orientation before starting their program. Orientation schedules vary from country to country but will include acclimation tours of the local town/city, accommodation neighborhood, geolocation map description, program location, main interesting points in the city or area. Emergency and medical protocols will be discussed and also address safety and security issues specific to the community volunteers live and work in.
  • Every staff member of A Broader View is committed to providing volunteers with the support they need to successfully meet the challenges they will face to have a safe, healthy, and productive service. The success of each ABV volunteer is our prime goal. We rely on volunteers to exercise personal responsibility and demonstrate both a keen awareness of the world around them and a willingness to adjust their behavior in a manner that will enhance their safety and well-being. In the end, your efforts will be rewarded with an incredible, unique experience.

The emergency lines are staffed by an A Broader View:

  • Communicate late/missed/flight connections during travel days
  • Notify a Volunteer of an emergency (e.g. critical illness or death of a family member)
  • Respond to family questions about a Volunteer's status (if problem occurring in-country)
ABV in a nut shell
  • 501 (c)3 nonprofit USA based organization – you can tax deduct the program fees.
  • Available year-round. You choose your own program start and end dates.
  • 32 country locations to choose from. Programs available from 1 week up to 3 months in length.
  • 245 perfectly balanced projects - experience, price, service.
  • 100% cultural immersion including local home-stay and guesthouse accommodations.
  • Program fees include airport transportation, orientation, housing/meals, 24/7 in-country support.
  • Suitable options for solo travelers, gap year, honeymooners, families, mature travelers & groups.
  • Excellent safety record and Platinum rated non-profit organization per Guidestar ABV alumni reviews.
  • Between 1500-2000 volunteer per year with a high percentage of repeat volunteers.
Language Options

Fluency in Spanish is not a requirement for the ABV volunteer programs, however on certain programs, volunteer work will be restricted with limited language ability. We recommend that volunteers take advantage of the very affordable language lessons offered exclusively to ABV volunteers by our ​local team in country. Past volunteers feel that taking these lessons help immensely with day-to-day volunteer work and communicating with local people. language lesson...read more.

Volunteers interested in taking Spanish lessons can arrange these directly with the local ​coordinator once in country or when applying online. Please note that Spanish lessons are no​t​ available to volunteers in some very specific locations. (Lessons fees)

We also recommend to learn some basic spanish prior traveling and/or download the itranslate apps for your phone.