Ethical volunteering, your way.
GVI Flex – an independent way to make an impact while travelling
We know you’re keen to travel and volunteer with community development programs abroad. But perhaps you’re looking for something that’s not as comprehensive as our hub volunteering programs.
Introducing GVI Flex – a brand new way to make an ethical impact more independently.
We’re stripping it down and keeping it simple. Your volunteer hours are determined by the partner organisation and may vary from full-time to reduced hours. We’re also simplifying activities and benefits to focus on providing only essential GVI support services.
With GVI Flex, you get to choose from new, exciting locations, partners and projects across the world! Along with our community development program in Tanzania, we also offer conservation programs in South Africa and Peru.
Meaningful volunteering is now more accessible than ever.
Are you ready to join GVI Flex for a global adventure? Immerse yourself in diverse cultures, traditions and vibrant communities while living and working abroad. Enjoy the freedom to contribute, explore and experience it all – your way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is GVI Flex?
GVI Flex is a new GVI offering where you can make a global impact in a more independent way.
The programs provide a bit more flexibility and freedom for independent volunteers, and may not encompass all the benefits of a comprehensive GVI program.
For more comprehensive volunteering programs, we also offer GVI Hub programs.
What’s included in a GVI Flex volunteer program vs a GVI Hub volunteer program?
GVI Flex programs
- Project work
- Accommodation
- Meals (program dependent)
- Airport transfer
- Basic pre-departure support
- Basic in-country support
- 24/7 mental health support
GVI Hub programs
- GVI-facilitated program and project work
- Accommodation on a communal community hub
- Meals
- Airport transport
- Full pre-departure support
- Full in-country support
- 24/7 mental health support
- Orientation sessions
- Local transport
- Training
- Qualifications
- GVI Experiences
- GVI staff
- Career development
Is accommodation included?
Yes, accommodation is always included. The type of accommodation will however vary depending on the GVI Flex program you’re joining.
You could be sleeping in dorm rooms, campsites, guest houses or hostels; or you could participate in a homestay with a local family. The specifics will be clarified according to your chosen program.
Is food included?
The amount and type of food included will depend on the program that you choose.
Some programs include three meals a day, whilst some programs don’t include any meals. The details will be made clear on the individual program page.
Food is always included where a GVI Flex program is based in a remote location where access to shops and restaurants is limited.
How long can I spend on a program?
You’ll typically volunteer anything between 1 to 24 weeks, for 10 to 20 hours a week, from Mondays to Fridays.
You’ll have lots of free time in the week and on weekends to explore and experience your local area.
What can I do in my free time?
In your free time, you are welcome to explore and travel around as you wish. You have complete freedom to manage your own free time!
Will I get picked up from the airport?
Yes, you will be picked up from the airport and taken to your GVI Flex accommodation.
What emergency support is provided?
You’ll be provided with an essential Information pack upon your arrival. This pack is equipped with local resources, clinic information and details about essential services. In case of an emergency, this pack will be your go-to guide. If you ever need additional assistance, you can reach out to your Program Manager – they’re here to support you.
Do you offer support with visas, flights and insurance?
Yes, we will provide you with arrival and departure information as well as guidance on the necessary visa for your program.
We also offer CISI travel insurance which we highly recommend you purchase.
Each participant will receive an Essential Information Pack to help prepare you for your program.
What support services do you offer?
We offer our GVI Flex participants basic support services before, during and after your program. Before you leave, you’ll get access to essential information, receive guidance to ensure you’re prepared for your travels and you’ll get invited to attend a pre-departure webinar. You’ll also get airport transfers to your accommodation and access to basic in-country support.
Will I meet other people on my program?
Yes, you are very likely to meet other participants on your program.
Can I speak to someone who has done a GVI Flex program before?
Yes, sure. Please complete our enquiry form so we can try to put you in touch with a past participant that meets your requirements.
Do I need any qualifications, certifications or experiences needed to join an GVI Flex program?
Most programs do not require you to have any previous experience or qualification. The exception may be diving programs, which sometimes require you to have some PADI certifications. Please read the information on the individual GVI Flex program pages to find out if this is applicable to you.
Can I travel with a friend?
Yes of course, many participants travel with a friend. In fact, if you join a GVI Flex program and refer a friend – they’ll get GBP 250 off their program fees and you’ll get a GBP 250 cash bonus.
Are there any age requirements?
You must be 18 years or older to join a GVI Flex program. As long as you are fit and healthy, there are no other limitations.
Do I have to complete a criminal background check?
Yes. All participants must complete a criminal background check to join a GVI Flex program. Our team will guide you through the process.
Do you offer any kind of mental health support?
At GVI, your mental well-being is a priority. Our enrolment and support teams are trained to offer personalised assistance, ensuring a program that aligns with your preferences. Additionally, you’ll have 24/7 access to mental health support from licensed professionals, making your journey with us a supportive experience.
Our ten ethical commitments
At GVI, we’re passionate about running top-quality community development programs in collaboration with local partners across the world..
Over the last 25+ years, we’ve compiled and refined a list of core ethics and best practices we believe are essential to the operation of quality, ethical, safe and sustainable development programs.
Our ten ethical commitments are implemented across all our programs, and are critical to ensure that your time and money contribute towards positive, lasting change.