Construction Volunteer Quest

Volunteer Abroad Construction Programs: 1-52 weeks

United Planet’s unique Volunteer Abroad Quest program combines volunteering abroad, language learning, cultural activities, learning excursions, and special Cultural Awareness Projects to provide an incredibly fulfilling experience for volunteers and valuable support for communities in need.

Many of the communities in which United Planet works lack basic buildings and infrastructure—particularly homes, schools, and libraries. United Planet sends volunteers to build homes in partnership with people and communities in need.

  • Go any time of year, for as long as you want.
  • All ages welcome. The minimum age for unaccompanied volunteers is 16 in some countries; 18 in others. Under those ages must be accompanied by guardian. No upper limit!
  • Citizens of any country are welcome.
  • Construction work is a common group task in any country-see the group options here
  • Universities, Schools, Corporate, Youth Groups, Spiritual Organizations.
  • Create your own customized Group Volunteer Programs such as alternative breaks, or team-building trips for employees worldwide.
Long-term/Gap Year Quests (6 months; 1 year):
  • Spend 6 months or 12 months living and working on a community project.
  • Volunteers must be citizens of the U.S. or Canada, aged 18-30 (upper limit is flexible).
More Information:

Construction Volunteer Abroad Programs

back to top

Chile

United Planet volunteers work alongside Chilean volunteers to build homes for low-income families in Santiago and rural villages. The homes are basic constructions that replace the families’ current shelters, which are often made of temporary materials such as cardboard and plastic. Volunteers participate in all aspects of the construction and have the opportunity to meet the family who will live in the home they are building.

Romania

United Planet works in partnership with an orphanage in a remote town in Romania, sending volunteers to help care for the children, provide basic healthcare, and construct essential buildings as the orphanage struggles to accommodate its ever-growing population. 

Ecuador

United Planet works with projects in the Cloud Forest of Nanegal, located just two hours north of Quito. Volunteers plant seeds and organic coffee, identify flora and fauna, and assist in environmental education and outreach in the local community. In the Galapagos, volunteers work on a reforestation and community development project and may mentor children as well.

Costa Rica

Volunteers in Costa Rica involved with Environmental Quests can work at conservation areas, national parks, wildlife refuges and more. We offer a wide range of different experiences: from creating trails in the cloud forests to cultivating medicinal plants, guiding tourists and patrolling protected turtle beaches. There are no Spanish language requirements for the environmental projects, though basic Spanish is very helpful.

Volunteers are needed to work at a family owned Eco-lodge in Ajloun. The village is known for Ajloun Castle built in 1184 and its nickname is Jordan Green. The family developed over 32,000sq-m over 25 years and owns farms and gardens they can live on. The family is planning to develop the farm to attract more tourists in the region and to provide lodging for them to spend time. Volunteers can help with construction, beautifying the area, planting trees, gardening, and farming. There will be plenty of opportunities to interact with local families. There is no language requirement, but Arabic language skills will help to communicate with local people.

Quest Program Briefs

back to top

Dates
Short-term Quests are available year-round with two start dates per month. Specific start dates vary by location. Long-term Quests begin in January and August of each year.

Program Fees Include:
  • Preparation & training before departure
  • Food & lodging in-country (what’s included may vary by country, call for details)
  • Airport transportation
  • Cultural activities and excursions
  • Emergency medical insurance
  • Ongoing support from Coordinators in each country

Fees do not include:

  • Visa processing charges
  • International airfare
  • Any required vaccinations or immunizations
  • Local transportation

Three Easy Steps to Apply

back to top

Questions about applying? 1-800-292-2316

Call one of our friendly regional Quest coordinators today. We will walk you step-by-step through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Step 1: Choose your Quest. Contact us at any time for help!  We'd love to talk to you. Email or call  1-800-292-2316.

Step 2: Enroll online. Please fill in the enrollment form. Then reserve your spot with a deposit (which will be credited toward your program fee).

Step 3: Meet your Quest coordinator and iron out the details. Once you've applied, your United Planet coordinator will contact you, and arrange a phone session to talk about your Quest of interest. THANKS!

Fundraising

back to top


Home | Volunteer Abroad | Privacy Policy and Terms of Use | Contact | Site Map