Are you thinking about volunteering abroad?  Follow these tips to have a safe and successful volunteer experience! 

Before you go 

Look up the organization’s history and experience in leading groups to volunteer abroad. Look beyond the brochures and the organization’s marketing materials. Make sure they have a record of successful and safe trips. 

• Research reviews. Has the organization had issues in the past? Do past volunteers have valid complaints? 
• Check if there is a partner organization in the country you are traveling to. Have they inspected the project site and documented that it is safe? 
• Read up on your intended destination 
• Make sure your travel documents are up to date (U.S. passport and visa for your intended destination). 
• Check out health and diseases at your destination. Do you have travel insurance that will cover medical evacuation? 
• Are you volunteering with an orphanage or working with children? Make sure you check out the following information page on child institutionalization and human trafficking. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.   
• Identify a U.S. contact. They should know how to reach you and your volunteer group in an emergency. 

Evaluating organizations for safety and support 

Before you sign up to volunteer abroad, make sure you review whether the organization has the following:  

Safety Plans 

• Risk assessment procedure, global risk management plan, and country-specific emergency response plans 
• Pre-departure security briefings  
• 24/7 office support in case of an emergency 
• First-aid-qualified staff 
• Emergency evacuation plan 

Volunteer preparation 

• Orientation to educate volunteers on the country and any safety concerns  
• In-country medical insurance, medical evacuation insurance, pre-trip physicals, and vaccinations 
• Handbooks that include helpful information on history, culture, and language 

In-country volunteer support 

• Works with host nation project leaders.  
• Has staff who speak local languages and know nearby police stations and hospitals. 
• Has 24-hour local office support.