Casual Work or Volunteer Abroad Programs

Au Pair Search

This website includes searchable databases of individual families and placement agencies for au-pair positions. Au pair positions generally involve living with a family abroad for a specific period (usually 3-12 months) and providing part-time childcare and/or tutoring in exchange for room, board, and a stipend; the term "au pair" refers to the fact that the participant is considered an equal member of the family. Many au pair placement agencies also cover the cost of language and/or culture classes at a local language school or university. While most placement agencies charge a fee to the participant, they also generally ensure minimum standards (for example, guaranteeing that the au pair will have limited work hours, time to attend school, days off each week, and a certain amount of spending money). Some agencies and many families restrict participation to females only; many also require previous childcare experience, etc.

Amigos de las Americas

A summer volunteer program in Latin America for four to six weeks, AMIGOS volunteers work on public health projects including specific projects in dental hygiene, community sanitation, and immunization. AMIGOS is affiliated with the Pan American Health Organization and local AMIGOS groups help participants raise money to cover some of the costs of the program. Some scholarships are available. At least one year of high school Spanish is required. Application deadline is March 1.

Australian Trust for Conservation Volunteers

ATCV is a non-profit, non-political community based organisation, which undertakes conservation projects which will be of benefit to the Australian environment. As Australia's largest practical conservation group, the Australian Trust for Conservation Volunteers aims to preserve the environment by involving the community in practical conservation projects. They arrange more than 1000 "hands on" conservation projects each year. Participants pay a fee of $400-$600 for 4 to 6 week programs; accommodations, meals, and travel costs within Australia are covered.

BUNAC Work in Britain, Australia, and New Zealand

The British Universities North America Club (BUNAC) allows participants to experience short-term work in Britain (England, Scotland, or Wales) for up to 6 months any time of the year; New Zealand for up to 12 months; and Australia for up to 4 months. Participants find their own jobs and may work in any field. Although most find work in the service industry (retail, restaurants, pubs, etc.), about 15% of participants arrange career-related positions. There is a fee ($225 for Britain, $450 for New Zealand, $475 Australia) for the issuance of the work permit and support services. The program is open to U.S. citizens who are full-time students or graduating seniors, provided they begin the program within 6 months after graduation. Application deadline is rolling; the number of spaces in Australia and New Zealand is limited.

Cross-Cultural Solutions

Cross-Cultural Solutions places people of all ages and backgrounds in three-week volunteer positions of their choice in India, Ghana, Peru, and Kosovo. No skill or experience is required. Participants pay a fee of $1,950; room and board are included.

Earthwatch

Earthwatch allows volunteers to join research scientists in fields such as archaeology, marine biology, animal behavior, ecology, public health, and anthropology on projects all over the world. Expeditions take place year-round for 2-3 weeks at a time. Participants pay a program fee of $600-$2,000 depending on the program; room and board are included. Cost of the program is considered a tax-deductible contribution. Application deadline is rolling.

Global Volunteer Network

Global Volunteer Network is a non profit organization run out of New Zealand. The organization places volunteers in community projects in Alaska, China, Ecuador, Ghana, Nepal, New Zealand, Romania, Russia, Thailand, Uganda, and Vietnam. Volunteers have the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational, environmental and community aid programs. Examples of the activities available include teaching English, environmental work, AIDS education, and assisting in an orphanage.

Habitat for Humanity: Global Village Program

HFH works together with the poor to build low-cost housing they can purchase at no profit and no interest. Global Village programs with affiliate organizations in over 50 developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Pacific Islands. Programs last 1-3 weeks, cost is $1,000-$3,000 depending on location and duration. Cost includes round-trip airfare, room, meals, insurance and donation towards materials.

Interexchange

Provides 2-4 month agricultural and resort work placements in Germany, Switzerland, Norway, and Finland. Participants pay a placement fee and receive stipends sufficient to cover living and personal expenses. Application deadlines vary.