Volunteer Programs in North America

This past summer I traveled on the Hawaii Surf Snorkel and Service program and it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. My group was with 11 other girls and 3 leaders from around the world. We saw an active volcano, sea turtles in the ocean, and many fish with snorkeling off of the catamaran boat... and so much more. We also did service in the farms which allowed me to learn so much about the Hawaiian culture. Not only were there hundreds of opportunities for amazing instagram photos, but most of the time we were so busy living in the moment that we didn't even think to take any photos. And it was okay because our leaders were always taking awesome photos! I met amazing people on this trip, people that taught me lessons about myself that I would have never been able to learn otherwise. I was pushed out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. Everyday we did multiple new and exciting things, but if someone wasn't comfortable one of the leaders were always there for help. Now after 2 months, I still talk with the girls I went on the trip with and they have become my best friends. If you are contemplating whether or not to go on this trip I tell you to 100% book the ticket right now, and that you will not regret it!!!

My IVHQ coordinator was very punctual and informative when answering my email and questions. Thailand was the first asian country I ever travelled to and I really loved the country, I was never home sick. The locals I met and the other volunteers were all kind and fun to be around. The teaching program was not too difficult even though it was mostly autonomous because there are coordinators and resources available to help build lessons. The volunteer to free time ratio was great. My only complaint was that my travel group found the beds too hard, but it was address by the end of the week.