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I thoroughly enjoy serving at IFI because of how they make Biblical hospitality simple. At the start, I felt very intimidated about ministering to international students and wondered how to cultivate authentic relationships with them. However, IFI has taught me that all I need to do is invite them into my day-to-day life! That's what discipleship means anyway-- as Jesus did with his disciples, he walked with them daily, inviting them to meals, parties, prayers... I think we tend to overcomplicate things and IFI has made me realize that hospitality and friendship can be easy!

Stien and I are street artists from Thailand and Norway, and we had a residency at Bangkok1899. Everything was excellent. The place is quiet at night despite being in the heart of the city. There is space to exhibit artwork, a garden, and a charming café downstairs. The atmosphere is perfect for creating art. They also helped us with art supplies, installation, and promotion for the exhibition, as well as managing everything on the opening day. It was truly impressive.

I have been fortunate to participate in several Trips with Intention to highland Ecuador with The Tandana Foundation. Each trip has provided an opportunity to work with local communities on projects important to them - medical checkups, helping bring potable water to their homes and families, assisting in planting trees and vegetable gardens, and more; with each trip I come away feeling that I’ve received more than I could ever have given. In addition to project work we interact with the community members, explore Otavalo and nearby areas, and learn about the Kichwa people and culture. The Tandana staff is everything you could wish for and more. The accommodations are excellent, we are kept informed, always feel safe and are well fed! If you are looking for an international volunteer opportunity I encourage you to give serious consideration to The Tandana Foundation.

My internship with United Planet was an amazing experience that taught me a lot about teamwork, communication, and leadership. I got hands-on experience using tools like Canva for designing projects and organizing ideas, which really helped me improve my creativity and digital skills. Beyond technical skills, it also strengthened my problem-solving and time management, and made me more confident in collaborating with others. This internship showed me how much impact thoughtful work can have and inspired me to keep learning and contributing.

Would not recommend. We were told a student needed an emergency placement and no there were no other families available, this would be an unpaid placement. We spoke to the student and her local coordinator and thought we would be a great match. Because it was midway into the school year, it took a lot of legwork from myself and the local volunteer by getting my family approved to calling and writing letters to schools to have her accepted. After many hurdles, we finally got her accepted into local school school. But, then the next day, we were told she is being sent to another family because her region was prioritized. Just to be respectful, they should have told us what they were exploring and check in with us before a decision was made since we were the first to answer the call and made it clear the work we'd be putting in to help her. ASSE really needs to work out these kinks so not to hurt the students and waste people's time and effort.

I have always believed in travel and international education as tools to foster a more just, equitable, and empathetic world. Through RISE I've learned how to better articulate that and now have tools to educate others. One thing I love is that RISE's programs and materials are accessible to all no matter their level of education or travel experience. As the lead for Experiential Journeys I've had the privilege of seeing RISE's mission in action. There are so many incredible people and organziations around the world with a similar goal of making the world a little better through travel, and I have loved learning about and meeting so many of them. I'm always amazed that RISE is completely volunteer-run. Our team is an incredible group of people with a similar passion, and everyone brings diverse and interesting experiences to the table. I've loved being a part of this team and learning from wonderful people. Great mission, great programs, even better people.

Volunteering with SWB has been a wonderful experience. As a recent resident to Baltimore, I was lucky to find a group focused on building community and working with children through a language I've always understood - soccer. It has been a pleasure working alongside genuine and caring coaches and school personnel dedicated to serving diverse communities in Baltimore, and mostly, working with the all the kids involved with SWB. I look forward to continuing to volunteer here and contributing to a positive and constructive environment for all SWB's players.

Caution advised. I cannot, in good conscience, recommend Global Volunteers as a reputable nonprofit. While they promote a “Philosophy of Service,” their practices often lack transparency & fairness, favoring certain programs over others. My company made a donation designated for specific materials where we had served. Despite repeated follow-ups with staff & the community organization, those materials were never provided. I have also heard from other volunteers & staff that donations are redirected to GV’s more “favored” programs (such as Tanzania, Malaysia, Cuba), even when contributions were earmarked, leaving other programs underfunded. Further, volunteer fees go entirely to organizational costs rather than supporting projects, a fact not openly shared. For these reasons, I have formally reported this organization. I strongly encourage prospective donors, volunteers & supporters to exercise caution. In my experience, the image they present is not consistent with reality.

It is all about LOVE over here. My mommy and papa have been a part of the Love Foundation since before my birth. I love them and they love me unconditionally

Big Apple

The MayaGold Foundation is a wonderful organization. As a YAT (youth action team) member, I’ve participated in various events, such as highway cleanup and setting up giving libraries. I’ve loved working with them to make my community a better place and helping to fix the stigma around mental health.

I had an amazing GCAC experience! Our group travelled to Costa Rica to volunteer at the Wild Sun Animal Rescue, clean one of the beautiful beaches, and visit a local orphanage where we brought toys and school supplies for the kids. I am looking forward my next GCAC opportunity!

I have just recently started interning for Kids for Peace and it has really added a light to my life. Whether it be making signs to spread kindness for local news stations, or putting smiles on people’s faces—the impact of brightening someone’s day is worth more than money can buy. Thank you for giving me this opportunity Kids for Peace!

As a former host family, I had a deeply challenging experience with Youth For Understanding (YFU). While the program promotes cultural exchange, its handling of student vetting, academic preparedness, and support for host families and schools raised serious concerns. <br> <br>Issues with Admissions and Language Proficiency Testing <br>The student hosted under YFU’s program demonstrated significant academic and language deficiencies that were overlooked during the admissions process: <br> <br>The student admitted to multiple failed attempts on the required English proficiency test before receiving an inflated score with alleged assistance. <br>After repeated concerns, YFU retested the student, but the process lacked impartiality, as the test was conducted by a teacher directly involved with the student. Despite three months of English immersion, the student only barely passed. YFU refused to provide the numerical score or clarity on passing standards. <br>Impact on Schools and Host Families <br>The student’s lack of preparedness created significant burdens: <br> <br>School Resources: The student required extensive ESL support, remedial courses, and interventionist assistance. Teachers lowered standards, granting full credit for incomplete or incorrect work. <br>Host Family Challenges: YFU dismissed concerns about the strain on our family, repeatedly suggesting our expectations were too high. We were told other families might "show more compassion," despite the student’s lack of effort or academic progress. <br>Broken Agreements and Manipulation <br>To minimize disruption, we offered to continue hosting the student for the semester if YFU and the biological parents agreed not to place her with another family. While YFU initially agreed, they reneged, pressuring the school to find a new host family. This shifted the burden further onto already strained resources. <br> <br>Conclusion <br>YFU’s systemic failures in vetting, testing oversight, and family support undermine the integrity of its program. Until meaningful reforms are implemented, including transparent admissions processes and improved support for schools and host families, I cannot recommend participation in this program. <br> <br>

I have worked with the organizers of action alliance several times in setting up apartments for refugees. The love and attention given to each setup is incomparable. Not only are they trying to give these families the essentials of life, they're trying to make it feel like a home for those that have none. It is truly beautiful. Each time I make donations of household goods, I know they are going directly to the people that need them most desperately. So encouraging to see an organization where 100% for all the donations of items, money, and time go directly to the cause being supported. No one is taking anything for themselves. Such an inspiration!

I am inspired by the work and the mission of Atux̂ Forever Restoring Attuans' Freedom. I only recently learned about their important work. I am excited to support their work revitalizing culture, language, and traditional stewardship of their lands.... and for the day they are Federally Recognized with access and rights to their traditional lands.

They stopped being a non profit in 2018. Did not tell the volunteers til after they already paid and discovered issues and were on site in the country volunteer site. No longer tax deductible. I do not believe they are in business. I was injured due to them in 2018 and won the court case in 2021 but received nothing because they disappeared

I have visited Long Way Home for many years throughout it's life. It has always been a source of inspiration to see how much has been done with so little. Long Way Home started out helping a few families in Comalapa, grew to building an eco-park and soccer field for the community, and now into a large school that not only provides the highest quality education in the area, but provides an unforgettable experience for all involved. It is my favorite place to visit when I travel to Guatemala and will always be a major destination for my family and my career.<br><br>Long Way Home is a juggernaut in the nonprofit arena and it's future is gleaming.

Our family LOVES Abada Capoeira! Mastranda Yara is nothing short of amazing with our 6yo son. She is patient, approachable, passionate and disciplined. Our son has gained confidence, coordination, friendships and community through Abada Capoeira. They focu on the techniques of Capoeira, but also learn musical instruments, songs, Brazilian Portuguese language, and so much more. Thank you Yara!!

The Colorism Project has proved to be a platform for me to voice my thoughts about the prevalence of colorism in society and has enabled me to interact with individuals from all over the world that are fighting against colorism. Its been a great pleasure and an enriching experience to work with dedicated thought leaders that are striving towards bringing about the much needed change in this world when it comes to color bias. I have been involved with the Colorism Project for two years and look forward to collaborating with them for several more.

Global Glimpse is truly a fantastic nonprofit. The programming they have in place for students is unlike any other nonprofit I've worked with, and they truly focus on how to create the deepest level of impact for students and the communities they work with. Students walk away from their trips with substantial leadership skills, interpersonal skills, new friends, new sense of community and an expanded view of the world. It's a positive experience for everyone involved and I highly recommend looking for ways to get involved or donate!

The Russian Center also provides critical social services to those in need. The center offers essential items to families and individuals struggling to make ends meet. Additionally, the center offers immigration services, providing guidance and support to those navigating the complex immigration system. These services have a profound impact on the individuals who receive them, often providing a lifeline during difficult times. <br> <br>In addition to its social services, the Russian Center hosts cultural events and activities that bring the community together. From traditional Russian holidays and festivals to concerts and art exhibitions, the center provides opportunities for community members to connect and celebrate their shared heritage. These events not only promote cultural awareness but also help to strengthen community bonds. <br> <br>The Russian Center's impact on the community is further amplified by its partnerships with local organizations and institutions. By collaborating with schools, libraries, and other community groups, the center is able to expand its reach and provide even more resources to those in need. These partnerships also help to raise awareness about the center's mission and programs, increasing community engagement and support. <br> <br>In summary, the Russian Center has a significant impact on the community by offering language classes, social services, cultural events, and partnerships with local organizations. The center's work helps to bridge cultural gaps, provide essential resources to those in need, and foster a more inclusive and connected community. Through its efforts, the Russian Center is making a positive difference in the lives of countless individuals and families.

First time host parent here. And last time hosting with Nacel. This place is a nightmare. They care about the money. Not the kids period. In one conversation with Kimberly Morvig she talked trash about my host student, broke HIPPA 4 times about 4 other students and gave my personal information out to a former host family. <br>Erin asked us to do our face to face meeting at the airport at 6 am. I said no. So the meeting never happened violating DOS guidelines. I rarely got a monthly check in as they “forgot” to do it. I learned about a student that had an access and was in the er. So if that was your child… I hope he’s ok. And about a girl that got her period in school and was embarrassed. All things I should not know. Stay away. The school say nacek was the worst exchange program they had ever dealt with. I would agree. Find a different one.

Our family has hosted 9 students from 7 different countries since 2018. 7 of those students being through the EF High School Exchange Year. Sadly after our experience with this organization this past year we will no longer be hosting with EF. 
<br><br>The majority of our students we consider to be our own kids and part of our own family. We plan to travel and visit them as we are able. We continue to stay in touch after their arrival home. <br><br>The last 3 students were received from the program were absolutely unacceptable for a variety of reasons. 
<br><br>One student we hosted from Germany snubbed everything our daughter had to say to her. She cared a lot about her appearance and boys. We went on many trips with her and received no thank yous which can wear on you after awhile. We took her to Disney and the “thought the castle would be bigger.” Towards the end of the year she thought it was ok to have a boyfriend in her room with the door closed in our house. Being an only child and this being her first boyfriend her parents did not have rules or boundaries at home. She continued to ask if she could sleep at her boyfriend’s house. At the same time was failing her classes. She wasn’t sure if she was going to be able to participate in graduation until the day her parent’s showed up from Germany. Overall her pushing the boundaries with her boyfriend was embarrassing and challenging, right up to the day she went home with her parents. <br><br>We received 2 students for the 2023-2024 school year. Both did not speak any English to start off with coming from Asian countries, Korea and Japan. <br><br>The Korean student spent the entire year with us and did not speak to us. She was sent several warning letters throughout the year and EF did not send her home. It was a miserable year for everyone involved. Instead of leaving us a thank you letter when she left, she left us a card with money in it to “send her things home” which didn’t even cover a small box. She left her room a disaster that took us an entire day to clean.<br><br>The other student from Japan did want to have some interaction with us but could not understand directions or rules. This resulted in her getting in an accident resulting in a concussion 3 weeks into her exchange year before school even started. <br><br>This resulted this situation consuming our entire lives for 2 months. Driving to the hospital during her stay, arranging for her mom (who also didn’t speak English) to come to the US. Providing food, transportation and housing for the both of them. The student and the mom wanted her to stay and EF would not let her continue her exchange year against everyone’s wishes. <br><br>EF staff (a lady by the name of Amber) dealt with this situation completely unprofessionally without any compassion. This resulted in anger and emotions on our side, the student and her mom. EF forced her to return to home. After returning home and being cleared medically she requested that EF send her back to the US. The Japan office told her that she did not have host family acceptance, which was NOT the case. They told us that EF would not sponsor her visa and would also not be giving her a refund for the experience. What a total loss for everyone involved. <br><br>EF told us that they could “see what they could do” regarding the expenses and stress we endured during this time. They sent us a very very small check that didn’t even cover what we went through. <br><br>When EF “sells” these kids to American families they say they come with their own insurance, spending money and speak English. These students are a liability to families if they get hurt when you are their guardian. <br><br>If we decide to host in the future, we will be choosing a program that screens their students properly and that requires their students to pay their own way. NOT EF EXCHANGE YEAR.

This CIEE organization does not have a clear policy for their applicants . Unfortunately my fourteen year old son applied for this program and they rejected him because he was not a freshman in HS and they did mention anything about their unclear policy by the enrollment coordinator. In fact they were rush to collect funds and for my family to make a commitment to the program. <br><br>For example, the CIEE website or their terms and conditions does not indicate 8th graders or rising freshman don't qualify. One of their enrollment coordinator twisted the CIEE terms and conditions - page 27 indicating the following statement"<br> "Rising freshman are not eligible to participate. You need to complete 9th grade prior to traveling on a CIEE program". When I confronted about the misleading the CIEE never reply to my email.<br><br>Now it has been a month already and they have not refund payment after they agreed to send payment in two weeks. Please do your due diligence before making a commitment to this program - big red flags! If they have issues internally I don't want how is overseas.