International Volunteer Projects

International Volunteer Project

[img_assist|nid=214|title=|desc=|link=none|align=left|width=560|height=240] <p class=intro> What are you doing this summer? An International Volunteer Project (IVP) is a short term project (2-4 weeks) bringing together a group of young people from many different countries. The group lives and works together on a specific project in a community.</p> <p>These can range from looking after turtle eggs in South India to helping prepare intercultural festivals in the Czech Republic.

2012 International Volunteer Projects - Coming Soon...!

Xchange Scotland is part of international networks that have a history going back 80 years. Through this amazing network we offer over 1500 international volunteer projects every year, all over the world. Our international partners are currently working on their programmes for 2012 - and by the end of March 2012 we will have these up on our website - for you to search through....
  • How long: 2-4 weeks
  • Destinations: Over 40 countries worldwide
  • Cost: £200 + transport to the project

How many people go on an IVP?

Submitted by ed on Wed, 11/01/2012 - 17:45

Groups round the world can vary in size from 8 up to 30 at the very most. A typical project in Europe tends to have around 12 participants and at least one group leader. Each project has a mix of nationalities - living and working together - usually 2 or 3 per country. So, it could be 2 volunteers from the UK, 3 from Germany, 2 from Japan, 1 from USA... 

What is an International Volunteer Project (IVP)?

Submitted by ed on Tue, 10/01/2012 - 17:42

An International Volunteer Project is a short term project (2-4 weeks) bringing together a group of volunteers from many different countries. The group lives and works together on a specific project in a particular community. These can range from looking after turtle eggs in Mexico to helping prepare Buddhist festivals in Asia. The main categories of project are:

Where will we be staying?

Submitted by ed on Sun, 08/01/2012 - 17:49

The accommodation varies project to project. It really depends on where the project is. All accommodation will have cooking facilities and, of course, suitable access to washing and toilet facilities. Some have internet access. You could be staying in wigwams in the Romanian mountains or sleeping in beds outside in the Moroccan desert. It really depends where the project is being hosted.

How much does it cost to go on an IVP and when do I pay? What is an Extra Fee?

Submitted by jonathan on Sat, 07/01/2012 - 15:04

£200 + transport to the project. The £200 is the project contribution that goes to the sending organisation (Xchange Scotland). As soon as a volunteer has been offered a place on a project the £200 needs to be sent to Xchange Scotland before the volunteer's place can be confirmed on the project.  Once your place has been confirmed, then you can organise your travel to the project. Food and accommodation at the project is covered. 

I can't speak any language other than English. Is this a problem?

Submitted by ed on Fri, 06/01/2012 - 18:03

This depends on where the project is being hosted. Each project will have one agreed common language for the duration of the project. In most cases, this tends to be English. However, it is important that you check this before picking a project.

It is worth bearing in mind that an IVP is a great place to pick up another language.

Do I need specific skills? Does Xchange Scotland offer training?

Submitted by ed on Thu, 05/01/2012 - 18:01

Participants require enthusiasm, energy and a commitment to the project, but no need for specific skills. Requirements for each project do vary and it is always worth thoroughly checking the project descriptions. Throughout the duration of the project you will certainly be introduced to many new skills.Xchange Scotland does offer a Training Day for all volunteers before they go away. This usually takes place at the end of May (although there are additional options).

Do I need travel insurance, what about a VISA?

Submitted by jonathan on Wed, 04/01/2012 - 14:51

Yes. All volunteers attending an IVP require travel insurance. It is up to the volunteer to arrange this. Also, if you are going on a project in Europe, it is advised that you have a European Health Insurance card with you. These are free and easy to get - just follow the link.

Where does my Project Contribution go?

Submitted by ed on Tue, 03/01/2012 - 18:06

Unlike other organisations that offer international volunteering opportunities, Xchange Scotland is not a business. We are not run by shareholders, but by an Executive Committee of volunteers. The Project Contribution you give us goes entirely to the running and development of the organisation - not into someone else’s pocket.

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