When you start planning for your international volunteer experience and choosing where and when you’ll be volunteering abroad, carefully consider your goals and what you expect to achieve during your stay. If you choose to travel with an organization to support you and facilitate the logistics, always ask to speak with the organization’s staff and former volunteers. When you are volunteering in-country, you are also representing the organization in the community; likewise, their name and reputation precedes you.
Below are some questions you can ask to determine if the organization is the right fit for you. We hope these questions will help you in the search for the right organization. Contact a Program Enrollment Manager to speak with someone who has volunteered with CCS.
What kind of organization is this? How much experience do they have? What is their reputation in the community where I’ll be working?
- Non-profit vs. for-profit
- The mission and expertise in international volunteering
- Number of volunteers they work with each year
- Volunteer impact
- Political or religious affiliations
- International or national credentials and partners
- Financial stability
Learn more about CCS and our commitment to excellence in international volunteering.
What measures has the organization put in place to ensure my safety? Who will I be able to turn to in case of an emergency? How will I be able to keep in touch with friends and family?
- Lodging options and safety
- Safe meals and water
- Travel medical insurance
- Qualifications and location of in-country staff or local support network
- Local transportation
- Internet, mail, phone access
Review the steps CCS takes to ensure volunteer safety.
How will my days be organized? Will I be volunteering alone or with others? Will there be opportunities to learn about or explore the country? Will I have free time to write my blog, check out local events, or get a nap? Can family or friends join me or visit?
- Volunteer placements
- Scheduled activities, excursions
- Free time
- Travel companions and recommendations
Learn more about the CCS experience.
How does this experience volunteering apply to my career? Is the organization well-known to future employers or schools? Does the organization offer any support after the program?
- Academic credit
- Record of service
- Letters of recommendation for school, career breaks
- Personal reference
Learn more about the resources CCS offers to alumni.
What program costs are covered? What’s not included? How is the program fee allocated?
- Contribution to local community
- Tax-deductibility
- Discounts
- Changes to the program or cancellation
- How to raise funds, scholarships, grants, other options
Learn more about the CCS program fee.
