Why Globalteer?

Reasons to Volunteer with Globalteer!

Globalteer understands that people have different reasons to volunteer and that what makes a memorable volunteer experience differs between everyone. We have been placing volunteers at our projects since 2006; building up a wealth of knowledge in those years about what makes volunteering rewarding for volunteers as well as impactful for the fantastic projects we work with.

There are many organisations offering international volunteering placements and choosing who to volunteer with is not an easy decision. But not all volunteer organisations are the same. In fact some are ‘for-profit’ travel companies who pass on very little of your money, if any, to the communities they work with. Well, that's not us!

While there are countless reasons to volunteer with Globalteer, we have narrowed it down to our top 10 reasons! You can feel confident you are doing the right thing when you choose to volunteer with Globalteer.

Top 10 Reasons to Volunteer with Globalteer!

1. Globalteer is a UK Registered Charity:

We are not a business, we don’t have share-holders and we don’t make a profit. We’re not even a business with a charitable foundation as a side-line; we are all charity and our reasons for doing what we do are 100% charitable! Of course we have to run Globalteer as efficiently as possible to make sure that the money we raise is used wisely and our charitable work has maximum impact.

We have a dedicated team of just 8 full-time and a 2 part-time management, admin and support staff. In addition, more than 90% of our staff are based “in the field”; enabling us to keep are our overheads well below 'western' standards while also contributing to local economies all year round. As a registered charity our activities are audited once a year as are our accounts which are available to view on the Charities Commission Website; so you can see where your money goes!

2. Every penny we raise goes towards our charitable objectives:

As a registered charity we are governed by UK government rules and have a legal obligation to only use the money we raise to help us do our charitable work. Whilst that does include the unavoidable costs of running the charity, we keep those as low as we possibly can.

What’s more, as well as covering costs such as accommodation and transport when you are volunteering, a share of every volunteer placement fees goes directly to our partner projects. Since 2006 our partner projects have benefited from donations totaling almost £2.2 million thanks to Globalteer!

3. We are one of the pioneers of Responsible Volunteering:

Since day one we have focused on making all of our volunteer placements truly responsible so you can be sure you are contributing to a meaningful cause with long-term, sustainable impact.

We have introduced detailed and robust child protection policies into many overseas projects and are one of the few volunteer organisations that insist on background checks for all staff and volunteers working with children. We are also associate members of Keeping Children Safe.

4. We genuinely value and need volunteers:

We believe that your relationship with your volunteer project is a two-way thing where you and the project both benefit from your contribution. A crucial part of that two-way relationship is the existence of a real, community-driven need for the work that you will be doing.

We have been working with most of our partner projects for many years and also run our own projects; knowing them inside out. We know just how much they are helping their communities, we know their aims and we know their needs; which is where you, our volunteers come in. Your time will always be put to good use when you volunteer with us.

5. We really look after our volunteers:

From the moment your placement is confirmed, we start helping you to prepare for your trip; the better prepared you are, the more of an impact you can have at your project. The pre departure support gives you comprehensive, tailored travel and health advice and even a packing guide. Additonally we communicate with you regularly by email or Skype before you set off so that you know exactly what to expect when you arrive and what duties you will be taking on at your project.

We only place volunteers at projects that have been vetted by us and who we know personally. Even our remotest partner projects have been checked out by our own staff. All of the projects we work with have English-speaking staff in their teams of local employees to help your volunteering go as smoothly as possible. And for volunteers in Siem Reap, Cusco and Medellin; we have Globalteer staff ready to welcome you and help you during your stay. Volunteer training is an important of your orientation so things go smoothly and you can make a real difference at the project!

6. Our projects have a sustainable impact

At Globalteer we know the importance of a long-term sustainable impact and not just a quick fix to a problem. That is why we only work with projects that have long-term, sustainable goals. We have built this value into our mission, charitable goals and strategies. We work closely with our partners and local communities to ensure that the projects are fulfilling genuine needs and that volunteer placements are of true value to the project & communities and keep in line with their short term & long-term objectives. Volunteer placements with our projects are a part of long term plans, with a sustainable solutions to real problems; so rest assured that your time spent volunteering is making a real difference to sustainable projects.

7. Something for Everyone - Groups, Individuals, Couples and even Families!

Individuals, Couples, Families, Student Volunteers and Groups – all are welcome! While travelling and volunteering on your own can be an exciting adventure, we understand that it isn’t for everyone! Some people want to share the experience with their significant other, family or friends. Additionally some people want to share the experience with a group; whether a work group, school group, university group or just a friends group, we have options to suit all. Furthermore, we cater to all age ranges. Those under 18 have the option to volunteer with their parents; or as part of a school group as a student volunteer. And we do not have an upper age limit! Very often people ask what is the upper cut-off age and we are happy to tell you we don’t have one; in fact we actually get a large number of volunteers to all of our projects that are over 40.

8. Affordable and Flexible Volunteer Options

We understand that not everyone has huge budgets to spend on volunteer trips. That is why we aim to provide affordable volunteer trips to suit a range of people. We keep our fees low to ensure that volunteer opportunities are available to as many as possible.  Additionally, not everyone has the chance to take huge chunks of time off work. Which is why we have options to volunteer for just 1 week, for those with limited time still wanting to help. And for those able to invest more time into volunteering you have the option to volunteer for up to 12 weeks; or to combine volunteer placements at multiple projects. Additionally our projects run year-round; so you are not restricted if you are only able to take time off work during holiday periods.

9. Cultural Immersion, Fun and an Unforgettable Experience all in One

Not only will you be helping to make a sustainable impact, you will also get the trip of a lifetime. Learn new skills while volunteering, enjoy some adventure travel and meet new people all at once! You become immersed in the local culture; seeing, learning and experiencing things that most tourists never do; as a true global citizen. Both Globalteer and project staff have a wealth of knowledge about the country. They can share many tips on all the best spots that only locals may know about. Additionally, due to the location of the projects, you really get off the regular 'tourist path' and see a side of the city and country you may otherwise not get to experience.

10. A Great Addition to your CV

Leadership, teamwork, cultural immersion, volunteer overseas, international development, foreign language, charitable; these are just some of the things that employers or academia look for when viewing an application or CV. How to show you are a great leader? Voluntary service overseas on projects overseas where you are responsible for completing tasks as part of a team. How to learn a foreign language and gain a cultural experience outside of the classroom? Volunteer abroad where you will be fully immersed in the local culture.

Additionally volunteers can become a Charity Champion through Globalteer; volunteers or those that conduct fundraisers are able to achieve a certificate showcasing their skills and achievements as volunteers. Yet another great reason to volunteer with us!

Now seeing some great reasons to volunteer with Globalteer, why not browse our volunteer projects to find something most suitable for you. If you would like to know more about the Charities Commission and view our audited accounts and annual reports, please visit the Charities Commission website. For a full account of where your money goes, please click on the button below:

  • Sally Bateman Avatar

    All the Globalteer staff I have worked with have become friends and I value their support and encouragement. I have volunteered with the Globalteer Cambodia Community Project in... read more

    Sally Bateman 1/17/2018
    Jess Robinson Avatar

    If you’re considering getting involved, just do it! I guarantee you won’t regret it. I had an AMAZING experience volunteering on two different projects... read more

    Jess Robinson 1/12/2018
    Anna Von Foerster Avatar

    The Globalteer staff was extremely friendly, helpful, and made me feel right at home. One of the best experiences I've ever had! The Globalteer... read more

    Anna Von Foerster 6/30/2017
  • Justine Auton Avatar

    The benefits of doing this work through Globalteer were many. I worked on the clean water project in Siem Reap... read more

    Justine Auton 1/14/2018
    Diego Alonso Avatar

    Had a great time and was happy to support such a worthwhile project. Having done lots of research on volunteer projects, I decided... read more

    Diego Alonso 11/13/2017
    Nathan Crook Avatar

    Globalteer employ members of staff who themselves have a passion for travelling. Having chosen to spend three-weeks volunteering on a Cambodia Community... read more

    Nathan Crook 1/25/2018
  • Crystal Moniz Avatar

    Accommodation was perfectly chosen and I made friends for life during my month working there. Perfect mix of authenticity and safety. Stayed with the best... read more

    Crystal Moniz 2/13/2018
    Jessica Robinson Avatar

    Well organised, really helpful and welcoming staff. I had an amazing experience volunteering with Globalteer earlier this... read more

    Jessica Robinson 1/12/2018
    Nick James Avatar

    Great organisation making a real difference. Great organisation making a real difference in Peru.

    Nick James 12/20/2017
  • PICKLE SMART Avatar

    If you go there, you would definitely love it. I stayed in Picaflor House for like one month and... read more

    PICKLE SMART 8/31/2019
    Eva Deix Avatar

    I felt very much taken care of and I met amazing people who worked on other Globalteer projects. Coming from a country with very few organisations that offer... read more

    Eva Deix 1/14/2018
    Evie Rollinson Avatar

    I would really recommend them to anyone... Great company who genuinely want to improve the lives of... read more

    Evie Rollinson 12/26/2019
  • ragnhild helgesen Avatar

    Plenty of people you can ask for guidance. Great place to do your internship. Good atmosphere in the... read more

    ragnhild helgesen 11/29/2019
    Hannah Verity Stone Avatar

    Everything was well organised from day one and any special requirements were met with ease. Volunteering with Globalteer at Picaflor House was an incredible experience... read more

    Hannah Verity Stone 6/30/2017
    Robert Bisson Avatar

    Each morning I woke up excited and full of energy to meet the other amazing volunteers and start our work! This experience was one of the most rewarding things I... read more

    Robert Bisson 1/12/2018
  • Lauren Franklin Avatar

    I had an amazing time and look forward to volunteering with Globalteer again in the future! I volunteered with the Peru Community Project out of Cuzco... read more

    Lauren Franklin 6/30/2017
    Peter DiFrancesca Avatar

    Globalteer were there every step of the way to help facilitate everything. Such a rewarding experience. Candice and Globalteer were there every... read more

    Peter DiFrancesca 7/10/2017
    Elise Mousset Avatar

    100% recommend to volunteer with them Globalteer is a great charity that will help you every... read more

    Elise Mousset 10/03/2019
  • Crystal Avatar

    Accommodation was perfectly chosen and I made friends for life during my month working there. Learnt so much in an authentic and safe environment. Accomdation... read more

    Crystal 2/13/2018
    Kayla Lynne Kiteley Avatar

    This trip was very well organized by Globalteer. I had the amazing opportunity to volunteer with Globalteer at... read more

    Kayla Lynne Kiteley 1/25/2018
    Holly Bygrave Avatar

    The whole experience was fantastic from start to finish. All the Globalteer staff made me feel really welcome. I spent a couple of weeks volunteering at the Helping... read more

    Holly Bygrave 7/26/2018
  • Hercules Moriarty Avatar

    The staff working there are dedicated but also good fun. What an amazing experience! We spent a week with this... read more

    Hercules Moriarty 9/22/2018
    Tiarne Biviano Avatar

    It was organised so well and I felt so comfortable throughout the whole process. Late last year I was able to spend a month... read more

    Tiarne Biviano 2/02/2019
    AJ Rodney Avatar

    The staff really made me feel welcome. I had a great experience with Globalteer in Peru. The... read more

    AJ Rodney 11/05/2017
  • Eli Joshua Echt-Wilson Avatar

    Great program, great volunteer opportunities, would recommend to anyone. I volunteered for a month with Globalteer in Peru and... read more

    Eli Joshua Echt-Wilson 3/15/2019
    Milly O'Connell Avatar

    I had the privilege of working as an Intern in Peru with Globalteer I had the privilege of working as an NGO Assistant... read more

    Milly O'Connell 10/04/2023
    Paxton Perry Avatar

    Globalteer in Cusco was one of the best summers of my life. This was one of the most life changing experiences i... read more

    Paxton Perry 10/09/2023
  • A.N. Barry Avatar

    I would most definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone who is interested in volunteering. My experience with Globalteer was amazing and I've volunteered with... read more

    A.N. Barry 1/14/2018
    Colin Elkington Avatar

    The most eye-opening and inspiring experiences I have had. My time spent volunteering in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with Globalteer... read more

    Colin Elkington 1/14/2018
    Jeff Bartlett Avatar

    They are great in every way. I have worked with them twice and I am counting down the days until I return next. Working with Globalteer and Picaflor house is amazing. They're great... read more

    Jeff Bartlett 6/30/2017
  • Ann Quinlivan Avatar

    It was a life-changing experience for me, one that I will never forget. I absolutely loved my time volunteering in Cambodia with Globalteer!... read more

    Ann Quinlivan 5/31/2018
    Anna Hilbert Avatar

    Would highly recommend them to anyone considering volunteering abroad. A wonderful organisation that's truly dedicated to helping the communities... read more

    Anna Hilbert 9/30/2019
    Hope Wilson Avatar

    I met a fab group of people and they made the trip even better! I had the best time volunteering, especially with a background... read more

    Hope Wilson 1/16/2018
  • Geraldine Parkin Avatar

    The trip has changed my outlook on life and I believe that this is only the start of my volunteering career! Mid-life crisis? Mid-life adventure? It could have been either.....or even... read more

    Geraldine Parkin 2/06/2018
    Katrina Baxter Avatar

    Anyone wanting to volunteer I would 100 percent recommend Globalteer!!!! I had the pleasure of volunteering with Globalteer at Picaflor... read more

    Katrina Baxter 7/04/2017
    Casey Scholl Avatar

    Would absolutely do it all over again! Amazing! They matched me with the perfect project and went... read more

    Casey Scholl 1/12/2018
  • Mark Catling Avatar

    Could not fault the hard work these people put in to support people less fortunate than myself. Great experience in Peru, couldn't fault the hard work these... read more

    Mark Catling 6/30/2017
    Fiona Mehmet Avatar

    It was a huge eye opener and I would do it again in a heartbeat! I volunteered with Globalteer in Cambodia last year and I... read more

    Fiona Mehmet 1/16/2018
    Colin Elkington Avatar

    All the staff and volunteers I worked with were very friendly and supportive. My time spent volunteering in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with Globalteer... read more

    Colin Elkington 1/13/2018
  • burcu eren Avatar

    Wish others would also be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience! I can’t stop talking & thinking about this amazing experience... read more

    burcu eren 1/10/2019
    Katharine Hughes Avatar

    I think it speaks volumes for the quality and impact of the experience, that I returned for a second trip! I first volunteered at Picaflor House Children's Community Project in... read more

    Katharine Hughes 2/28/2018