Safety is the number one priority of Cross-Cultural Solutions. We are committed to operating the safest programs possible and go the extra mile at every opportunity to do so. We also provide additional safety measures for participants in our Teen Volunteer Abroad program to ensure peace of mind for parents and guardians.
CCS’ DEDICATION TO SAFETY
Our choices on safety span from the decision to operate in a particular country to the design of the CCS Home-Base to the rigorous staff training on emergency policies and procedures. During the Teen Volunteer Abroad program, at least one English-speaking female and male staff person accompanies our teen volunteers at all times.
The CCS Home-Base
Our Home-Bases are designed for safety and comfort. During Teen Volunteer Abroad programs, Home-Bases are reserved exclusively for our teen participants. It's a home away from home — a place to connect with other volunteers and CCS staff, reflect on your experiences, enjoy meals together, read, and relax. Teen volunteers are placed in same-gender, shared-occupancy bedrooms. Night guards and CCS chaperones stay at the Home-Base 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Healthy Meals and Bottled Water
At the CCS Home-Base, staff cooks provide food that is safe and healthy to eat, and reflects the local cuisine. Plus, unlimited safe drinking water is always available. Our cooks understand how to accommodate menus for people with dietary restrictions or food-related health concerns.
CCS Staff
CCS staff at the Home-Base—Program Director, driver, housekeepers, cooks, etc.—are fully trained to support international volunteers and receive additional training and guidance on how to support teenagers living and working in another culture and learning another language. CCS staff are at the airport waiting for our volunteers when they arrive in-country. And we always wait for delayed flights. Our staff drivers also bring all volunteers to and from their Volunteer Placement or Cultural & Learning Activities. All CCS vehicles are purchased with safety as the top priority. Our vehicles are insured and regularly inspected for safety.
Travel Medical Insurance
All CCS volunteers are automatically covered with comprehensive travel medical insurance and emergency evacuation assistance, and provided with liability coverage as part of their program.
In-Country Policies and Protocol
Policies and protocol are put in place by our expert staff to handle any kind of personal, local, or national emergency. CCS staff always registers the volunteers with their embassy upon arrival, stay attuned to local happenings, and monitor all news and information. They are constantly there for you. Plus, we maintain a toll-free, 24-hour hotline in the U.S. for friends and family to reach CCS staff regarding any urgent matters.
