1-2 Week Volunteer Abroad Programs

The definition of short term volunteering can vary. In general, short term volunteering is any type of volunteer placement that lasts for under three months.

Short Term Volunteering Abroad Can Work—Here’s What to Know

There is no strict definition for how long short term volunteering is. In general, short term volunteering is any volunteer experience that lasts for less than three months. It can even be as short as one week!

You can volunteer abroad pretty much anywhere short term. To make the most of the experience, consider volunteering closer to home. For Americans, this could mean the US, or Central and South America. Europeans can consider Europe and North Africa.

7 Best Destinations for Short Term Volunteer Abroad Programs

Latest Program Reviews

Life Changing Experience

September 17, 2025by: Thijs de Waard - NetherlandsProgram: Teaching & Community Support in Kenya

10

I had an incredible time during my three weeks at BetterMe, to teach, play, and learn from the children at the school was simply amazing! The support from the BetterMe team was amazing, they surely helped with making this time more fun, memorable, and entertaining! Looking back at this period, it greatly helped me with getting out of my comfort zone and becoming more confident in myself. Personally, I visited together with my girlfriend. It was a great experience to share together. For the solo travellers: they have a good intake process, and will let you know how many volunteers there will be at the time you plan to go.

Life changing experience

September 17, 2025by: Natanja K - SwitzerlandProgram: Make a Lasting Impact as a Life Skills Volunteer in Kenya

10

In the beginning, I wasn’t sure if going to Kenya for a social project was the right decision. But from the very first call with Tom, I felt an instant sense of trust and warmth. I was welcomed with open arms and felt part of something meaningful right away. The experience truly changed my life — whether it was hearing the touching stories of the children, working on the streets, or speaking in schools. Every moment was deeply moving, and I always felt safe, supported, and cared for. I can wholeheartedly recommend this journey.

Life Changing Experience

September 17, 2025by: Thijs de Waard - NetherlandsProgram: Teaching & Community Support in Kenya

10

I had an incredible time during my three weeks at BetterMe, to teach, play, and learn from the children at the school was simply amazing! The support from the BetterMe team was amazing, they surely helped with making this time more fun, memorable, and entertaining! Looking back at this period, it greatly helped me with getting out of my comfort zone and becoming more confident in myself. Personally, I visited together with my girlfriend. It was a great experience to share together. For the solo travellers: they have a good intake process, and will let you know how many volunteers there will be at the time you plan to go.

Life changing experience

September 17, 2025by: Natanja K - SwitzerlandProgram: Make a Lasting Impact as a Life Skills Volunteer in Kenya

10

In the beginning, I wasn’t sure if going to Kenya for a social project was the right decision. But from the very first call with Tom, I felt an instant sense of trust and warmth. I was welcomed with open arms and felt part of something meaningful right away. The experience truly changed my life — whether it was hearing the touching stories of the children, working on the streets, or speaking in schools. Every moment was deeply moving, and I always felt safe, supported, and cared for. I can wholeheartedly recommend this journey.