This was my first volunteer trip therefore I was very nervous and had no clue what to expect. The program set everything up very well and I had no issues. While volunteering, I had an incredible time building a stove in Xela, Guatemala, and helping out at risk kids. I am so thankful for this program. It was an awesome catalyst for helping me help others! I had a great experience thanks to this program!!
You are here
Home › Institute for Field Research Expeditions - IFREInstitute for Field Research Expeditions - IFRE

This was the first time I had done a volunteer trip. In the past I had gone to resorts, but wanted to try something different. I have to admit I was nervous. I didn't know if I would be comfortable and safe, if I would be able to reach my destination, or even if this was a scam. After going through the program it was the most memorable and rewarding thing I had ever done in my life.
The assistance your receive is phenomenal. Everyone is happy to see you and happy to help. They lay out everything from your living arrangements to travel and are more than happy to answer any questions you have.
We donated and helped build a stove for a needy family and helped out at-risk children. I made friends that I will never forget and helped change the world. This is a great program and you will not think same when you are done. I could not recommend it more.
I am so glad I chose this program for my volunteer project. It has been an amazing experience that has led to a lot of personal growth. All of the people I've met have been so kind and helpful, and I'm incredibly grateful for the support and kindness they have given to me. I would definitely recommend this program to those who are willing to work hard and experience a new culture from a different point of view than that of a tourist.
We enjoyed our time in Costa Rica and had good experiences, but we felt that the coordination of our volunteer sites was lacking. It seemed as if the site was not 100% prepared to have us there to help, and we ran out of tasks to help with on all of our volunteering days. It also would have been nice to have a more set schedule for our volunteering hours with more of a description of what we would be doing before we left. While we absolutely appreciate our time in Costa Rica and made the best of it, we felt that the money we paid to participate in the experience was a bit too much for what we really received.
It was a wonderful experience. Helping elderly people and being exposed to a different culture is so valuable. I wish that our tasks as volunteers in the volunteering site were more specific and clear, and more related to our educational background (pharmacy), so we can be more helpful and involved.