International Volunteer Program: Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I volunteer?
Watch Habitat’s 2008 video campaign on the importance of volunteers. As a long-term international volunteer, you will be able to match valuable experience to specific needs at one of our Habitat offices around the world. Serving abroad in this capacity exposes you to a broader understanding of global issues, other ways of life and an unforgettable experience with an international nongovernmental organization. You will be able to share your professional expertise and stretch yourself as you apply your skills in a new context and from a new perspective. You will experience firsthand poverty, housing needs and Habitat for Humanity’s impact in a specific region. Most importantly, you will get the sweet satisfaction of being part of the solution to the poverty housing crisis.

Where can I volunteer?
In the past, we have placed volunteers in Argentina, Armenia, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Egypt, Ghana, Haiti, Hungary, Ireland, Kenya, Mongolia, Nicaragua, Tanzania and Zambia. There are certain standards that must be met by any Habitat office requesting a long-term international volunteer, including capacity for supervision, available resources to complete an assignment, and a safe location.

Who can apply to be an international volunteer?
People with a variety of skills are welcomed from all around the world. Since the volunteers in this program serve on specific, often office-based, assignments, they must possess the skills for the project. An international volunteer needs to be flexible and sensitive to multi-cultural environments, research the country of assignment well before arrival and be willing to adapt to new ways of doing things. To apply for an IVP assignment, you must be eighteen years or older.

What types of assignments do you have?
Special project volunteers work on specific projects or programs, supporting the work at an affiliate, national office or area office, as designated on the assignment description. These projects will help to build capacity in many areas of the host office, such as administration, communications, finance, programs, resource development and volunteer coordination. Occasionally you will find specialized construction assignments (site assistants, foremen, etc.) in this section. View our current volunteer opportunities.

How long are the volunteer assignments?
The average term of service is six to twelve months, but assignments vary depending on the needs of the Habitat organization.

How much does it cost to participate?
The cost of participation varies from country to country. In some cases, the host country is able to provide assistance with local transportation, housing or some other kind of support. However, in all cases, the international volunteer is required to pay for all costs associated with living abroad, including–but not limited to–international medical insurance (MEDEX), housing, food and travel to and from the host country. An estimate of the cost for each volunteer assignment is included in the description posted online. We do not charge an administrative fee for the program.

How can I apply?
Check out the assignments that are currently open for application in the Current Volunteer Opportunities section and thoroughly read the descriptions to get an idea of what to expect from your term of service. Once you find a match for your talents and interests, you are ready to download the application and waiver of liability. Be sure to include a current passport, resume and specific assignment for which you are applying with your application.

If you are unable to be an international volunteer, but you want to contribute to Habitat for Humanity’s mission, please visit our More Opportunities section for other ways to get involved.

Do you have further questions regarding the International Volunteer Program?
Contact us.