What is International Volunteer HQ?
International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is the world’s #1 rated volunteer travel organization, offering award-winning programs with flexible booking options. Since 2007, more than 154,832 volunteers have joined IVHQ to make a real difference abroad. With 338 projects spread across 50 countries, there’s a wide range of opportunities for anyone looking to contribute meaningfully while exploring the world. Programs vary in length, from just 1 week up to 24 weeks, making it easy to find something that fits your schedule and goals.
Main Benefits of Volunteering with IVHQ
Volunteering with IVHQ comes with some pretty amazing perks. Here’s a quick snapshot:
- 154,832 volunteers since 2007
- 338 projects in 50 countries
- Programs lasting from 1 to 24 weeks
- Starting at only $20 per day, including accommodation and meals
- Free unlimited changes to your trip — flexibility at its best!
Affordable and Flexible Programs
One of the coolest things about IVHQ is how affordable the programs are. Starting from just $20 a day, the cost includes accommodation and meals, which means less stress about budgeting while abroad. Plus, if plans change (because hey, life happens), volunteers get free unlimited changes to their trip. This kind of flexibility is rare and super helpful for anyone juggling work, school, or unexpected events.
Certified B Corporation and Carbon Neutral Commitment
IVHQ isn’t just about volunteering; it’s about doing good responsibly. They’re a Certified B Corporation, which means they meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. On top of that, IVHQ is 100% carbon neutral, so every project you join helps support sustainability efforts. It’s volunteering with a conscience, aligning actions with values.
Earn Course Credits and Save on Tuition
Students, listen up! Volunteering with IVHQ can actually help save thousands on tuition fees. Many of their programs offer the chance to earn course credits, turning your volunteer experience into academic progress. It’s a win-win: gain real-world skills, make an impact, and lighten the financial load of education.
Project Impact and Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals
- Good Health and Well-being
- Quality Education
- Gender Equality
- Clean Water and Sanitation
- Affordable and Clean Energy
- Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Reduced Inequalities
- Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Climate Action
- Life Below Water
- Life on Land
Join a Global Community Making a Difference
With over 154,000 volunteers and counting, IVHQ connects people from all walks of life who share a passion for making a positive impact. Whether it’s teaching, conservation, healthcare, or community development, there’s a place for everyone. The experience is not just about giving back — it’s about growing, learning, and becoming part of something bigger than yourself. Ready to take the leap? The world is waiting.
What International Volunteer HQ actually does
International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) is a volunteer travel organisation founded in July 2007 by Dan Radcliffe, launched from his family farm near Mount Taranaki, New Plymouth, New Zealand. The company has placed more than 163,000 volunteers since founding, across 335 projects in 50 countries, and is a Certified B Corporation with claimed carbon-neutral operations.
“I loved my placement and the people I was able to work with. Volunteering was truly a life changing experience.”
Bethany Duane, 21, childcare volunteer in Tanzania
Where the volunteer placements show up
- Childcare and education: placements supporting local schools and community programs
- Broad traveler base: teens 16+, gap-year and university students, professionals, retirees, families
- 50 countries: vetted local organisations across five continents
Proof, not just claims
IVHQ has also directly addressed a well-documented ethical issue in the volunteer travel industry: orphanage volunteering. After running such placements for years, the company phased them out and now operates under a published Child Protection Policy and Responsible Volunteer Travel Policy.
Why this belongs on a sustainability directory
By connecting volunteers to vetted local organisations across 50 countries rather than running its own on-the-ground projects, IVHQ channels support to community-led initiatives, aligning with SDG17 (partnerships for the goals). Its childcare and education placements, and its documented shift away from orphanage volunteering toward more ethical placement models, connect the organisation’s work to SDG4 (quality education) and SDG8 (decent work and economic growth) through the skills and support volunteers bring to host communities.
Frequently asked questions
Where is International Volunteer HQ based, and who uses it?
International Volunteer HQ is based in Taranaki, New Zealand, founded in July 2007 by Dan Radcliffe. It sells B2C, placing individual volunteers, from teens to retirees, in vetted programs across 50 countries.
Which SDGs does International Volunteer HQ support, and how?
International Volunteer HQ supports SDG17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by connecting volunteers to vetted local organisations rather than running centralised projects, and SDG4 (Quality Education) and SDG8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through education and community-support placements.
How is International Volunteer HQ verified as a sustainability project?
International Volunteer HQ is a Certified B Corporation with claimed carbon-neutral operations, and operates under a published Child Protection Policy and Responsible Volunteer Travel Policy after phasing out orphanage volunteering placements.
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