Humanitarian Projects

• Learning a new language? Language teachers or interest groups can travel with their classes/groups to practice their language skills while contributing to society by choosing from a wide range of projects. Working with children is always a fun, non-formal and easy way to practice a new language. Participants immerse themselves into an atmosphere where language learning is enhanced and the opportunities for practicing and learning are endless.
• Want to expand your worldly views? World studies, anthropology, sociology, psychology, cultural classes, etc. can travel together to gain a full understanding of foreign cultures. For example, if your group is learning about Latin culture, you can travel to Central or South America. If you are learning about ancient Asian cultures, you can travel to China or Southeast Asia. The possibilities are truly endless.
• Looking for something more physical? School groups can collaborate with local organizations to help in construction projects such as building schools and orphanages. Be active with your colleagues and enrich the lives of underprivileged children so they have safe, educational and enjoyable environments to learn and grow.
• Are you interested in science or the environment? Do you have a green thumb? Students studying science can travel together to volunteer with organizations focusing on conservation and environmental projects. This is the perfect opportunity for students learning about biology, chemistry, veterinary studies, conservation and ecosystems. Volunteers help local organizations with cleanup campaigns, planting trees, working with elephants and saving animal habitats such as those needed for land and sea turtle survival.
• Love writing and/or photography? Journalism students can take advantage of a Rustic Volunteer and Travel programs to practice global writing and photography. There are endless opportunities to capture daily life, flora and fauna, history, culture and local traditions. Students can practice their skills by capturing and sharing their global experiences.
• Students studying fields such as psychology, therapy, teaching, nursing, healthcare, engineering, social work, medicine, management, business and so on work with Rustic Volunteer and Travel to customize their projects to meet specific educational goals. Projects can directly relate to career objectives such as volunteering in schools, working with disabled people, helping in an orphanage, working in clinics/hospitals, constructing community projects, etc. This is a great opportunity to gain resume-enhancing experiences.
• Interest groups, sports clubs and teams can share their specific interests as they volunteer in a wide-range of projects to help local communities. For example, sports teams can enhance their volunteer experience by sharing their sport and bringing equipment to play with children and community members; musical clubs/choirs/bands can bring instruments and teach children how to play their music or plan community events such as talent shows. Just be creative and we will work with you to exceed your expectations!

A typical Itinerary:

Rustic Volunteer and Travel group itineraries are usually broken up into three phases: orientation, volunteer projects and travel. Depending on the amount of time your group has, we will develop each phase specifically for you. Rustic staff works hard to ensure that each phase is meaningful and well-organized so that your group can have the most rewarding experience possible.

• Orientation Phase: Depending on your available time, your group can choose an orientation lasting 1-7 days. The orientation will give your group information about your destination, daily life, local foods, safety issues, religion, history and basic information about your project. With more time, we also plan field trips, language courses and cultural immersion programs.
• Volunteer Phase: Once you complete your orientation, your group will then travel to your volunteer project site. Depending on how much time your group has available, you can volunteer anywhere from 4 days to 12 weeks. It's completely up to you. Depending on your group's interests, you can choose from a variety of projects such as working in an orphanage, school, construction project, health awareness (basic health and sanitation, HIV/AIDS and disease prevention, etc.), women's projects, teaching, community development projects, conservation efforts, etc. Depending on the country you choose, volunteers will stay with a host family, home base or hostel.
• Travel Phase: As an international volunteer, you will have the unique opportunity to explore new cultures, discover exotic flora and fauna, engage in new adventures and meet new people. Again, depending on the time you have, you can travel for 2 to 12 or more days. This phase is a time to relax and explore after knowing that you've done your part to help others in the world. Depending on the country of your choice, your group can experience pristine beaches, astonishing wildlife, scenic landscapes, historical locations, museums, vibrant markets, exotic cuisine, endless adventures and local daily life. Pictures will not suffice to capture your unforgettable experiences.

What are you waiting for? Contact us now for more information so we can work with you to organize an unforgettable, educational and cultural experience.