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Upcoming Service Learning Trips

Volunteer Abroad with MEDLIFE!

Join MEDLIFE on a transformative journey of volunteer work abroad in Latin America or Africa as we come together to empower low-income communities in their fight for equal access to healthcare, education, and safe homes.

Already part of a MEDLIFE Chapter ? Register for your Chapter’s planned Service Learning Trip (SLT).

Not part of a Chapter? You are welcome to join any pre-existing trip unless it is listed as limited registration. You may also be eligible for an SLT scholarship to Lima, Peru. Apply here!

Add Extra Activities to Your Service Trip

A trip to Peru would be incomplete without witnessing Machu Picchu, and you can’t visit Ecuador without experiencing the majestic Galapagos Islands. Our optional add-ons let you dive deeper into your SLT destination, supporting MEDLIFE communities sustainably along the way.

Explore all add-on options or include them during the booking process. For more details, email [email protected] .

DOWNLOAD THE SLT BROCHURE

Antigua, Guatemala SLT: July 20 – 28, 2024

Thank you for joining our MEDLIFE Movement through a Service Learning Trip (SLT)! With over 19 years of experience, MEDLIFE is dedicated to sustainable and ethical volunteering. Our mission? Empowering…

Virtual SLT: Cusco, April 27 -28, 2024

Searching Availability… Continue to Secure Booking System »

Commonwealth-Parkville High School Cusco, Peru SLT – Jun 29 – Jul 07, 2024

June 29 - July 7, 2024

Cusco, Peru Educational SLT – California State University, Northridge: June 01 – 09, 2024

June 1 - June 9, 2024

Lima, Peru Dental Clinic SLT: May 18 – 26, 2024

May 18 - May 26, 2024

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Global impact

Starts with you.

Local volunteering

Join a chapter at your University

MEDLIFE Chapters are dynamic student groups that offer students a rewarding opportunity to volunteer

What's cool about joining a chapter?

Develop Skills

Gain leadership, organization, and networking skills.

Scholarship Opportunities

Active members often receive scholarships and recognition for their work!

Global Exposure

Work with communities from different parts of the world.

Create Impact

Chapters drive local community service partnerships and engagement.

Education and Advocacy

Chapters drive educational efforts for on-campus awareness about global poverty issues and advocate for better medical access.

International volunteering

Join a Service Learning Trip.

Service Learning Trips (SLTs) are week-long educational journeys to Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica, or Tanzania, where volunteers work hand-in-hand with a local community on development projects, mobile medical clinics, and more!

What are the perks of joining a SLT?

Boost Your Resume

Gain 40 service hours and show global health commitment and hone vital skills.

Hands-on Healthcare Exposure

Work alongside medical pros in real settings.

Lasting Impact

Beyond a week-long trip, we ensure enduring community benefits.

Personal Growth

Build leadership, empathy, and teamwork.

Get involved with MEDLIFE

Experience the transformative power of volunteering by joining a chapter or a service learnig trip abroad

Fill out the form and an advisor will contact you shortly

Hear it from MEDLIFE volunteers

Joining the MEDLIFE Movement provides an educational opportunity for our volunteers to learn more about living a life in extreme poverty and how MEDLIFE approaches the issues our partner communities face.

I didn't expect my time with Medlife to change my whole career path. After the SLT, I found my real passion for healthcare.

Jacob, former chapter president College of Charleston

Working with Medlife has assured my path and showed me that I’m headed in the right direction. I can’t wait to take everything with me into the future.

Mia, former chapter president at University of Pittsburgh

Being in another country you see the different types of medical needs and ailments and how they are treated.

Sierra from University of Miami about SLT

MEDLIFE at a Glance

People have benefited from our projects

Educational Workshops

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Service Learning Trips

Are you considering a service learning trip as a way to develop personally and professionally? Perhaps you want to explore your field of study while giving back to communities through volunteering? International Volunteer HQ offers fully hosted service learning projects abroad for college students, high school students and individuals at any stage of life.

With Program Fees starting at just $20 per day including accommodation, this is the most affordable way to embark on a journey of self-discovery, learn about new cultures, and make a positive impact. You can also earn academic credit for a low cost while volunteering abroad, saving you thousands of dollars in tuition fees.

Every year, more than 15,000 people complete their service learning abroad with IVHQ — and you’re invited to join the crew!

Why take a service learning trip with IVHQ

Earn academic credit while volunteering abroad.

Choose from 40+ countries across the world

Low-cost programs from only $20 per day

Find out how we keep our programs so affordable

Pre-departure guidance and 24/7 in-country support

Unrivaled safety & support

Airport pick-up, accommodation, meals & orientation included

We organize everything for you

I felt very suited to the work I was doing, and left feeling very fulfilled. I felt that the locals who I was working with were appreciative of my time and effort. I could see how my physical presence and assistance was helping the community. I have learned so much about the world, people, different cultures and lifestyles and my horizons have definitely expanded. I returned home with a newly found sense of confidence in myself and a stronger sense of direction for my life. My trip with IVHQ transformed me and absolutely changed me for the better, I feel like I’ve become the person I want to be.

Volunteer stories

“I decided to volunteer abroad based on my interest in international public health, as well as the opportunity to support developing communities while experiencing the culture. I plan on pursuing medicine with a focus on international health, so this program was the perfect way to volunteer while gaining shadow experience within a field that I am passionate about.”

“I took interest in volunteer work and community service last semester when I was studying global health. I’m also a nurse and enjoy meeting patients and knowing that I have done some good in this world, so it seemed like the right time to volunteer abroad. If helping others is your passion, just do it! Stop thinking about it and apply for a project!”

How to take a service learning trip with IVHQ

Whether you’re wanting to volunteer as a student somewhere close to home, or looking for a service learning opportunity further afield, IVHQ has volunteer programs in 40+ countries to suit all travel types. Our diverse range of long and short term service learning projects abroad are available year round and include childcare, wildlife conservation, environmental, medical, teaching and much more.

Taking a service learning program abroad can be done in 5 easy steps:

• Apply for your chosen destination and project
• Confirm your place by paying the Registration Fee
• Prepare for your trip with the guidance of your IVHQ Program Manager
• Depart for your destination
• Our local team will collect you from the airport and support you every step of the way!

Already know where you want to travel to?

Best programs for a service learning trip

Explore the top-rated programs for an impactful service learning trip.

• All regions
• Africa & Middle East
• North & South America

Volunteer in Bali

Volunteer in Costa Rica

Volunteer in Fiji

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer in Guatemala

Volunteer in India

Volunteer in Jamaica

Volunteer in Nepal

Volunteer in Peru

Volunteer in Tanzania

Volunteer in Trinidad and Tobago

Volunteer in Vietnam

Volunteer in Zambia

Service learning is an educational approach for students, where learning and personal development occurs through participation in volunteer initiatives that give back to local communities.

A typical service learning project will require students to define goals, research and plan their community service volunteering. After completing the project, students will usually present their findings back to the school and reflect on their learnings.

Why is service learning important? Because it engages students in real life experiential learning beyond the classroom, teaching them the importance of compassion, kindness and advocacy. These experiences also help uplift local communities, economies and natural environments around the world.

Many students choose to undertake their community service learning program through IVHQ, as our volunteer abroad programs empower them to make a tangible impact while also exploring an exciting part of the world. As an IVHQ volunteer focused on service learning, you’ll build new friendships, discover new cultures and broaden your horizons - all while giving back to those who need it most.

IVHQ offers a range of service learning programs for high school students and teens aged 16 and 17, so you don’t need to wait until you’re 18 to go abroad and make a difference! We offer safe and affordable volunteer opportunities for teens and high school students in 17 destinations around the globe.

Since 2007, we have supported thousands of young people to volunteer around the world on our youth service learning trips abroad. More than 20% of our volunteers are under 20, so we know a thing or two about providing life-changing, reliable travel experiences for young explorers.

Top service learning ideas for high school students:

Learn more about how to join an international service learning trip if you’re under 18 here .

Today’s student demographic is more progressive than ever before. That’s why student service learning has become a popular alternative to studying abroad. Instead of doing a study exchange, many are opting for a more meaningful form of international travel - one that is regenerative and makes a positive impact on local communities.

IVHQ offers service learning for college students abroad in more than 40 countries around the world, starting from as little as $20 per day. You can also earn academic credits from our international service learning programs!

Top service learning programs for college students:

IVHQ offers short-term service learning trips in over 40 countries. You can volunteer abroad for as little as 1 week in the majority of our destinations, and choose from flexible start dates available year-round. This means you can get away and experience a new culture without needing to take ample time away from your day-to-day priorities.

Our short-term service learning programs overseas are designed for those who want to maximize impact in a short period of time and are perfect for students who are looking to take an alternative break . With everything organized for you, including airport pickup, accommodation and 24/7 in-country support, you can hit the ground running as soon as you arrive at your destination.

Summer is one of the most popular times of year to go on an international service learning trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in a new culture and interact with locals while soaking up the sunshine. With time off from college and school, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the world and make a difference alongside like-minded people.

Whether you’re an animal lover or an aspiring medic , check out these top summer mission trips for 2024 & 2025. For more information on IVHQ’s top summer volunteer abroad projects, click here .

Top summer service learning trip destinations:

• Puerto Rico
• South Africa

With over 16 years of experience in facilitating international service learning volunteer programs, IVHQ is proud to be the organization of choice for students looking to combine community service work with an international learning experience.

We believe that service learning should contribute positively towards society. Environmental and social impact has always been at the heart of what we do, which is why IVHQ is the first and only global volunteer travel provider to declare a climate emergency and become a certified B Corporation .

If you’re looking for service learning opportunities, you likely have a social or environmental cause in mind, or you might like to contribute to a project that aligns with your studies. IVHQ offers a variety of service projects, including Teaching , Childcare , Community Development , Environmental Conservation , Construction and Renovation , Turtle & Marine Conservation , and Wildlife & Animal Care . You can even earn academic credits from our international service learning programs.

You can choose to take a long-term or short-term community service learning trip with IVHQ for periods ranging from 1 week to 24 weeks. With fully hosted experiences abroad starting from $20 per day and available year round, you will not find a more affordable and trustworthy international service learning provider.

How to get started

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Not for Profit Trips with MEDLIFE

Safe, Educational, and Impactful

Looking for a different kind of travel experience? Our partner NGO, MEDLIFE , organizes not for profit Service Learning Trips (SLTs) to Peru, Ecuador, Tanzania, or Nicaragua. These are safe, educational, and impactful week-long journeys where participants work hand in hand with the local community on development projects and mobile medical clinics.

Service Learning Trips are 100% operated by and for MEDLIFE. Good Life Expeditions supports MEDLIFE by donating profits, bringing attention to their work, and giving our travelers a greater sense of connection with the world around them.

Click Here For More Information.

Why service learning trips, 1. providing crucial resources.

A service-learning trip’s primary role is to provide the resources to hire doctors, nurses, community organizers, engineers, architects, and supplies such as medicine, educational materials, cement, busses, and food to make it happen. The resources allow MEDLIFE to aid the communities we work in by screening for diseases, providing education, and purchasing building materials.

2. Growing the MEDLIFE Movement

The SLT is also a crucial starting point for the MEDLIFE Movement. It  provides an educational opportunity for participants to see firsthand the harsh realities of extreme poverty and how MEDLIFE approaches these issues. They learn about foreign cultures and countries by spending time with patients, community members, and medical professionals. Participating in workshops, they become well-versed in local and global issues.

A local MEDLIFE team supports all SLTs. Participants have 24/7 on the ground emergency contacts and are covered by thorough insurance. Contact MEDLIFE for more information!

From Our Happy Travelers

Good Life Expeditions prides itself on crafting unforgettable journeys for travelers from around the world. Don't believe us? Hear it from the travelers themselves!

Jake, Phillipe, and Michelle tell us about their magical trip!

- Jake, Phillipe, and Michelle

Check out this incredible expedition to the Galapagos Islands!

- Richard and Kara

Check out what these travelers loved about their trip to Peru.

- Sarah and Hakudo

These girls would recommend GLE to friends and family – check out why!

- University of Wisconsin students

Check out what Thu Le has to say about her experience with Good Life Expeditions!

Experts in Travel & Giving Back

Once in a Lifetime Experiences

Every Trip Supports Our Partner Non-Profit

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Service Learning Programs Abroad

Take a break from the textbooks and learn by doing through service learning projects with Projects Abroad. We ensure that the international service learning we facilitate for you does more than support your education. It also lets you make a real difference in the world!   

This is what you can expect from service learning abroad with Projects Abroad:  

• Go into local communities to help people solve problems
• Learn new skills through hands-on work
• Experience personal growth and broaden your horizons
• Rely on trained Projects Abroad staff who help you reflect on your experiences, work with you through any problems you encounter, and talk about the results of your work

For service learning trips abroad, you need a well-run program you can trust. We’re champions of Responsible Volunteer Travel , and our programs help solve problems that people face every day.

We have strong ties to local communities, and we built these relationships with the help of our staff and through partnerships with local organizations and NGOs. This ensures that we collaborate with local people and address their needs, which makes our long-term work more effective and sustainable.

International Service Learning: What Can I Do?

The goal of a service learning trip abroad is to for you to learn and help others at the same time. We have several types of programs that are perfect for this:

Public Health

Our Public Health Projects focus on helping people in rural areas that lack access to medical care. You’ll get clinical experience while learning about the healthcare challenges people face everyday. This is what you do: 

• Conduct basic health checks, like measuring blood sugar levels
• Raise awareness about illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure
• Talk about the importance of healthy living

In many rural areas, children stay home during the day because families can’t afford kindergartens and daycare. This means that they don’t get as much stimulation as they need. It affects their development and makes it harder to cope when they start school. 

Our Childcare Projects aim to change this by working with kindergartens and daycares that focus on Early Childhood Development and education for disadvantaged children. You help kids learn through play, teach the ABCs and 123s, and get them active outdoors.

Wildlife Conservation and Marine Conservation

Climate change is a growing threat. Coral reefs are suffering from bleaching, and miles and miles of rainforests disappear every day. At our Conservation Projects, we’re working to reduce the impact of human activities on precious ecosystems around the world. Become part of our efforts to protect the environment while you learn from professional scientists and conservationists in the field.

A lack of good infrastructure can hold a community back. Children need safe spaces at school to learn, modern toilets prevent disease and improve hygiene, and shelter fulfills a basic human need. Each of our Building Projects is working toward providing a disadvantaged community with the infrastructure they need.

Do a Building Project, learn about the infrastructure challenges people face, and see immediate physical results from your work! 

See a full list of our volunteer abroad programs .

Service Learning Trips for High School Students

Blend service learning projects for high school students with travel on our High School Specials . Our staff designed these short-term volunteer programs specifically for students ages 15-18. 

On our service learning opportunities for high school students, you: 

• Live and work with people your own age for 2-4 weeks at a time
• Are supervised and guided by our local staff 24/7
• Participate in a full schedule of volunteer work that benefits you and local people, animals, or the environment
• Attend workshops and lectures related to your program
• Join events and activities to learn more about the local culture and traditions
• Choose from a variety of fixed dates in June, July, and August and pick one that best fits your schedule

Take advantage of the opportunity to see and learn about the world. Have new experiences and learn more about who you are as a person on a high school service learning project!

Service Learning Ideas for College Students

Enter the world of experiential education and apply your studies to real-world situations on service learning trips for university students. Many students who join us for this type of experience opt for an internship abroad , so they can help, learn about global issues, and get practical work experience at the same time.

University students are busy people, and most have tight schedules over the summer. For students with only two weeks to spare, we strongly recommend our Team Trips . You'll be able to team up with a group of people to work toward a specific goal.

Looking for more flexible service learning project ideas for college students? Take a look at our Flexi Trips , where you can choose your own travel dates throughout the year.

International Experiential Learning for Groups

A growing number of schools, educators, companies, and organizations are interested in running service and experiential learning trips. Projects Abroad offers  custom group options for students, clubs, sports teams, and colleagues from the same company. Tell us what you need and what you want to accomplish, and we can customize a service learning trip abroad for you!

Service Learning Trips for Families

Give your children the educational experience of a lifetime and  volunteer abroad as a family .This is a fantastic opportunity to show your kids the world and teach them about helping people. Talk to us to find which program would work best for your family or customize a service-learning trip to fit your needs and goals.

Need more help?

Our staff are ready to answer your questions, big or small.

to start planning your project

Our accreditations

Service Learning Trips

Inspire your students to make a difference, both in the world and back home

On our Service Learning trips, students team up with established nonprofits and local volunteers on community-driven projects. Through hands-on work focused on sustainability education, students learn collaboration and problem-solving skills while making meaningful contributions.

What to expect on a Service Learning trip

Communities in action

On your Service Learning trip, students get to know communities during meals, cultural activities, and work at their project sites that prioritizes sustainability education. They’ll gain a new appreciation for the variety of customs and cultures present within their own country.

Meaningful service

Working side by side with community members, your students will gain insight into the challenges they face and contribute to long-term community initiatives.

New perspectives

Between your 24/7 Tour Director and locals you meet throughout your Service Learning trip, students will experience unique perspectives and create personal connections that resonate long after returning home.

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Para La Naturaleza

On our Service Learning trip in Puerto Rico, students get a hands-on look into conservation and sustainability education thanks to our partnership with Para La Naturaleza. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to preserving the island’s ecosystems. Through managing 30,000 acres of conservation land, they provide students the opportunity to work with seedlings in a tree nursery, plant native trees outdoors, and prepare and maintain reforestation areas. After volunteer hours wrap up, Para La Naturaleza environmental interpreters facilitate reflections with students to help them further understand the impact of their service.

Browse by collection

Find tours that are perfect for your subject, your students, and your students’ interests.

Show your students the importance of STEM through hands-on experiences and collaboration with experts in the field.

Social Studies & America History Tours

Investigate the most important elements of society by walking the streets where history happened and where today’s culture is created.

Cultural Perspectives Tours

These class trips expand students’ understanding and appreciation for a wide variety of cultures to broaden their outlook on the world.

Performing Arts Tours

Tap into your students’ imaginations and encourage creative expression through class trips that promote storytelling and dance.

Tales from our tours

Hands-on in Puerto Rico

Our Puerto Rico travel guide outlines everything you need to know about this beautiful island before you go.

How it works

Building your team.

It starts with your Tour Consultant, an expert on schools in your area who’s laser-focused on you and your students’ growth.

Choosing the perfect trip

We work with you one-on-one to find the perfect Service Learning trip for the needs of your group, every time.

Spreading the word

When it comes to signing up students and getting them excited for your class trip, we’ve got plenty of tips.

The possibilities are endless.

Find your perfect tour.

Unforgettable Vacations with Purpose

We believe travel can be transformative. That it can empower the communities we visit. And that it can make the world a better place. Join us on a high-end handcrafted journey across the most unique destinations this world has to offer.

A Meaningful Way to Travel

Because you want more from your travel experiences. Our immersive, small-group experiences & purpose-driven itineraries allow you to explore a destination in ways few have access to. And our portfolio of boutique lodges are designed to create a truly unparalleled experience. Join us as we redefine what it means to travel.

Why Discover Corps?

We’ve been pioneering a new way to travel since 2012 delivering truly unforgettable, family-friendly journeys that have a positive impact. Hand-selected expert guides connect you with fascinating people and projects across some of the world’s most incredible locales.

This is travel that is designed to change your perspectives and inspire you and your children to engage with the world. Our passionate team of travel experts will be by your side the entire time.

Want to learn more?

Request a Catalog

Or call 1-619-758-3030

Each trip is designed to impact both the communities and wildlife that we encounter as well as you and your family. Our hand-selected partnerships provide access to inspiring initiatives that are changing the world for the better.

Wildlife Conservation

Come face-to-face with our world's most precious wildlife and engage with conservationists dedicated to protecting these animals.

Women's Empowerment

Experience local projects and meet community leaders helping women thrive.

Community Development

Engage with local communities and children helping to spark change in education and health.

Environmental Preservation

Discover innovative environmental initiatives designed to protect our incredible natural world.

Types of Trips

Signature Journeys

Our signature hand-crafted small-group journeys infused with purpose and high-end boutique lodging.

Grassroots Expeditions

Our selection of trips featuring hands-on volunteer projects, no-frills lodging and deep cultural immersion.

Experience a New Way to Travel

Brazil - Rio Carnival

Dress up in costume and parade with a leading samba school. Rub shoulders with Rio’s leading samba schools. Uncover arguably the most beautiful city in the world. This is Discover Corps’ Carnival!

Oaxaca - Day of the Dead

Experience the iconic Day of the Dead festivities & be immersed in the Oaxacan culture!

Thailand - The Lantern Festival

Thailand literally lights up during the Loy Krathong & Yi Ping lantern festivals. Experience the best of this stunning Southeast Asian country while joining in on the festivities!

Cuba - Havana Jazz Festival

Immerse yourself in one of the world's greatest jazz festivals! Explore the beauty of Havana & beyond.

Peru – Inti Raymi Festival

People come from all over the world to experience the iconic Inti Raymi festival. This is a time of celebration and arguably the best days of the year to be in Cusco!

Morocco – Fès World Festival of Sacred Music

Morocco is an epicenter of Arab culture in North Africa. And during the Fès World Festival of Sacred Music the country lights up in dance, music and art. A truly remarkable time to visit this enchanting country!

Looking for more?

What will you discover.

Discover Corps has been taking travelers to far corners of the world for over a decade. Hear what a few of our Alumni have to say...

Each day I thought we had reached the high point of the trip, but then the next day always offered another rich experience. Broadening my knowledge of Peru and its people was very important. The trip exceeded any expectation that I had…the warmth, generosity, skill, knowledge of the guide, Miguel, the variety of experiences we participated in – Inka history, social projects, connection with the people, and especially the children – made for an unforgettable trip. Rainbow   Mountain was one of the most deeply spiritual experiences I’ve ever had. I’m saving my money for my next Discover Corps trip!

Peru: Children of the Andes

Learn more about this trip

What makes international travel a beautiful experience for us is the opportunity to learn about the culture firsthand through its people, food, and music. Discover Corps designed this trip to Cuba with all of that in mind. We developed genuine connections with people we would have never had a chance to interact with otherwise, and the casa particular was an incredible opportunity to hone our Spanish and, for my 8-year-old daughter, to be immersed in the language for a week. Our tour guide gave us chances to make the trip our own during free-time and showed us the local perspective day after day.

Cuba: Building Bridges

What really drew me to this trip was the ability to take my children on vacation and watch them fall in love with nature. Each day, we joined our guide on a mission to track animals that we had only seen in movies. Watching my kids stare in awe as they watched elephants and rhinos play in the wild was truly priceless. Since we’ve been home, they cannot stop talking about everything they learned in South Africa.

South Africa: Wildlife Conservation Experience

Types of Grassroots Volunteer Trips

Volunteer trips for single travelers.

Single travelers are often charged an expensive “single supplement” if they want a room to themselves.  However, we make it affordable for single travelers.  On all trips, we can pair single travelers with a roommate in order to avoid any additional fees. On some trips we offer a free single room to solo travelers – just look for dates marked “Solo Traveler Savings” (STS).   Read more about our Solo Traveler Savings program .

Volunteer Travel for Women

Women often face unique safety challenges when traveling abroad.  However, our volunteer trips offer women an easy, turnkey service program that is managed by our expert in-country staff.  Our staff will make you feel like you’re part of their family, and share all of their insider knowledge so you have an insightful, authentic and safe volunteer vacation.  Read more about how our volunteer trips accommodate women travelers .

Volunteer Vacations for Seniors

Combine your love of travel with your desire to make a difference.  Whether you’re traveling with a friend, spouse or your grandchildren, our trips feature all-inclusive pricing so you don’t have to worry about a thing.  Our trips are not physically demanding, and our guides can tailor activities to your level of fitness. Read more about our volunteer travel for seniors .

Volunteer Travel to Costa Rica

Travel to Costa Rica has never been easier.  We plan your entire Costa Rican vacation with meticulous care.  Our volunteer trips to Costa Rica allow you to experience its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and friendly people.  Whether you want to volunteer with sea turtles , help protect the environment , or simply relax – we have the perfect trip to Costa Rica for you.

Intergenerational Volunteer Family Travel

Are you looking for the perfect family vacation? A volunteer vacation for your family might be the ideal getaway.  Volunteering abroad as a family is a great way to expose children to other cultures in a safe and secure environment.  Intergenerational volunteer trips are also a wonderful way to pass on your values of service and compassion to the next generation. Read more about family volunteer vacations .

Trips to Volunteer with Animals & Wildlife

Connect your love of animals and your passion for travel by volunteering with a conservation organization.  Whether you’re protecting sea turtles in Costa Rica or conserving leopards in South Africa , you’ll go behind the scenes of the worldwide animal conservation movement. Read more about our animal volunteer programs .

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Service Learning Trips

All acis tours connect participants with the societies they visit..

ACIS Service Learning tours push this ideology one step further. We provide participants the opportunity to actively contribute to the local community in a significant way. The goal of each project is to educate and engage participants, while at the same time, help a community that needs it.

Depending on their school’s specific policies, students may use ACIS service work to satisfy community service requirements. All participants receive a certificate of completion for participating in an ACIS Service Learning project.

Build Your Tour

We’ve found that teachers who are interested in leading service learning tours generally want to customize their program to best suit their group. We make creating a service learning tour as simple as:

Latin America

• For Latin America and Asia, check out sample itineraries that include that project as inspiration. In Europe, build a custom tour around these days of service, or add or substitute a day to an existing itinerary.
• Talk to your Program Consultant! He or she is an expert and will work with you to build the tour that best suits your group and exceeds even your highest expectations!

Community and Reforestation Service Project

Students will focus on both community development and ecological projects to help the area residents. You’ll begin the day with community-minded projects such as painting or grounds upkeep at local schools, followed by contributions to the local ecosystem and agriculture during reforestation work on area farms.

Sample Trip Sarapiquí Conservation Learning

Animal Sanctuary Service Project

Students have the opportunity to participate first-hand in the important conservation efforts undertaken by La Marina Wildlife Rescue Center Foundation in Aguas Zarcas. Through projects such as feeding the animals, collecting data or building new enclosures, you’ll learn about Costa Rica’s diverse and threatened animal population and help to rehabilitate the sick and injured creatures that are relying on the sanctuary for survival.

Sample Trip Costa Rican Animal Sanctuary

Sea Turtle Conservation Project

Participate in an important coastal-marine conservation effort as you work collaboratively with your group to promote the nesting and hatching of leatherback sea turtles. Whether building hatcheries, removing debris from the nesting sites or collecting valuable data, you’ll be treated to a unique and insider look at the turtles’ ecosystem and life-cycle. Please note that we are regrettably unable to guarantee sea turtle sightings during the tour.

Sample Trip Conservación Costa Rica

Dominican Republic

Río grande abajo community project.

Live with a local family in rural Río Grande Abajo, a small community that relies on an agriculturally-based economy. Students will work on projects that are run in cooperation with Brigada Verde to fulfill community needs. One large project is building stoves. Other projects include work to enhance local, sustainable development, such as composting and recycling. For groups that have the skills, larger construction projects are also available. Groups are encouraged to donate Spanish books and technical equipment to the community’s new library and computer lab.

Sample Trip Río Grande Abajo Homestay and Service

DREAM Environmental Service Project for At-Risk Youth

Partner with the Dominican Republic Education and Mentoring Project (DREAM) and spend five days collaborating with local school children to create art projects that will raise awareness of local and international environmental concerns. The program will provoke thoughtful analysis and hopefully create sustainable solutions.

Sample Trip  Dominican Youth Conservation Project

Children’s School Service Project in Beijing

Volunteer at a Beijing school for disadvantaged youth. During your visit, you will share laughs and stories. You’ll break up the students’ routine and provide an experience they look forward to and enjoy. You will also develop an understanding of their daily lives, studies, and challenges and have the opportunity to contrast what you learn and experience at the school with your own lifestyle and school system back home.

Sample Trip  Children of China

Children’s School Service Project in Shanghai

Volunteer at a school for less fortunate urban students. Meet the children and learn about the hardships they have endured. Compare and share details of your daily customs and activities. Many groups bring along school supplies or gifts to distribute to the children.

Tree Planting in Xi’an

Work with community members and plant native trees to help with Xi’an’s reforestation efforts. Project staff will not only teach students how to perform the service, they will also explain the importance of reforestation to maintaining a sustainable ecosystem.

Dedicate a Day of Service in Europe. To ensure our service projects are both meaningful and genuinely beneficial to the local community, our European projects require a day devoted to service. Talk to your Program Consultant to learn more about how you can modify an existing ACIS itinerary or build your own custom tour and include service work.

Sustainable Development in Fontainebleau

Students will visit the Forest Educational Center of Fontainebleau and attend a workshop about the local flora and fauna and approaches to sustainable development. They will then help the center’s staff clean the forest.

Talk to your Program Consultant about including this service work

Reforestation of National Parks

Working with an organization that fights desertification, deforestation and erosion, students will learn about the global impact of environmental issues and then actively contribute to bettering it. Activities vary from planting trees to the protection of flora and fauna to the conservation and maintenance of natural spaces. Sample locations are: Doñana National park near Seville, the Sierra de Guadarrama near Madrid or even in the parks of the capital city itself.

Sample Trip  Language Immersion in Spain

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Home News Physical Therapy students bring rehab care to Guatemala during service-learning trip

Physical Therapy students bring rehab care to Guatemala during service-learning trip

During Marymount University’s Spring Break, 20 Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students and eight faculty members traveled to Guatemala for a two-week service-learning and community engagement opportunity, allowing participants to give back to others while expanding their global perspective.

Located in Panajachel at Lake Atitlan in Solola, Guatemala, the Marymount team volunteered at hospitals, pharmacies, clinics and with area programs to teach physical therapy practices to community partners and a local university. This is the trip’s 14th year, with previous DPT groups visiting underserved communities in Nicaragua and Costa Rica .

“Service learning shifts the focus of academic knowledge to how we can benefit others with that knowledge ,” said Dr. Cindy Spooner, who served as an instructor and lead physical therapist at Hospital Solola during the trip. “By having experiences helping others during their educational journey, students serve and assist others as they gain academic knowledge, leading to a well rounded, competent and empathetic practitioner upon graduation.” 

Student participants experienced this growth and development in different ways as they worked with various organizations in Guatemala. For instance, with the guidance of Dr. Lisa DePasquale while volunteering with the Mis Años Dorados organization, DPT student Robin Zhao visited older community members in their homes to assess their fall risk. Working on a one-on-one basis gave her a new appreciation for how important interpersonal skills are within physical therapy practice.

“One small interaction can go such a long way,” Zhao observed. “Since we only got to work with each of our patients one time, we had to learn how to leave them with something valuable in a single interaction. For some, it was an exercise program or education of lifestyle modifications. But for others, it was simply being present and validating their concerns.”

DPT student Emmanuel Jackson, who volunteered at the Farmacia and cared for residents of all ages, spoke about how rewarding it was to see patients improve and respond to their care.

“My favorite part of the trip was dancing with patients who had told me they were too scared to move due to their pain.”

Positive changes in patients’ overall well-being left lasting impacts on other student volunteers, including Sabrina Bishop. After working with the ASOPADIS organization, which ministers to disabled individuals around San Lucas, she has a renewed confidence and passion for physical therapy.

“This trip has increased both my clinical reasoning and confidence as a clinician. I have further developed my skills and ability to instruct others,” Bishop said. “But most importantly, this experience further fostered a desire to help others and care for my future patients.”

Another important aspect of the service-learning experience was how to teach and administer care in underserved communities that have differing standards of available health care.

“Guatemala’s citizens are underserved in rehabilitation,” said Dr. Megan Moran , who worked with Fundabiem and educated patients and their families about the importance of physical therapy. “Our students applied their knowledge to care for those who lack access to rehabilitation services, and shared evidence-based, contemporary practice with physical therapists and other providers in Guatemala. They left the trip with improved problem-solving skills, better self-efficacy and progress in intercultural development.”

Sydney Schultz, a DPT student who volunteered at the local hospital, said she left with a new mission — make physical therapy more accessible to all. 

“Everyone deserves a chance to recover from an injury, illness or disease,” Schultz said. “I want to give power back to patients during their recovery.”

Student participants will discuss their trip experiences in depth at a talkback session on April 15 from 11:30 am to 1 pm in the second floor conference room of the Ballston Center. They welcome all members of the Marymount community to attend and enjoy free food following the event.

The patient care provided on these DPT trips are funded in part through community participation in the Marymount 5K , an annual event in Arlington. This year’s race is scheduled for April 20.

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Moscow Metro – Part 2

Have you been to Moscow ? In all seriousness, they have the prettiest metro stations I have ever seen and I still can’t believe how immaculate and lovely every station was. There are several different stations pictured below and this is the second of several posts where I will show you the beauty of the Moscow Metro. Did you see part 1 ?  There really isn’t much to say because I think the pictures speak for themselves. I have so many more pictures to share with you!

Have you ever been to Moscow? Is it someplace you have thought about visiting?

She speaks fluent English, French and Spanish, and works for a major airline. And guess what? She’s also a licensed elementary teacher and has an MBA.

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This is the train STATION?? Oh my god… So gorgeous. Moscow has never even crossed my mind as a possible travel destination but this is gorgeous…Hmmm… LOL

I know, right? We spent several hours in the metro, just marveling at the beauty of each one. Thanks for stopping by!

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