Embrace the opportunity to engage in meaningful volunteer work in the Caribbean—animal welfare, carpentry and social service with kids. Learn tangible lessons about the social and conservation issues the islands face in the midst of a changing environment. And swim, snorkel, scuba dive and explore in one of the most beautiful and welcoming places on earth.
In the aftermath of one of the most destructive hurricane seasons in recent history, residents of the British Virgin Islands face a long and daunting relief and rebuilding effort. Our homebase will be on the island of Virgin Gorda, where there is much to be done. After 27 years working in the territory, VISIONS teen volunteers are needed more than ever. Guided by experienced carpenters, you’ll be directly involved in rehabilitating homes and community buildings. You will learn skills necessary for construction projects, as well as how to safely use power tools.
Over the years, VISIONS has worked with many local nonprofits and grassroots organizations. Given the vast impact of recent hurricanes, community members and NGOs have taken an “all hands on deck” approach to relief, and we are looking forward to being part of the collective effort. The program promises to be a rare experience in cooperative service, as the entire BVI community has come together to work toward a common and urgent goal.
We will be working on Virgin Gorda, a charming island measuring only 8.5 square miles. Here, a proud Afro-Caribbean heritage, dating back to the Atlantic slave trade of the 1500s, infuses everyday life. VISIONS has worked in the BVI since 1992, and first worked on Virgin Gorda in 1993. As one of our oldest international sites, we are deeply immersed in the island culture. You will be welcomed like an old friend—to play pickup basketball with local kids; to hang out with neighbors; or to go lobstering with a fisherman friend, who has been working to repair boats damaged in the hurricane so that he and others can get back to the sea. In addition to the cultural experience that comes naturally by being grounded in the community, you’ll have a chance to learn about Rastafarian traditions, groove to steel drum music and watch carnival favorite moko jumbies dance on stilts.
Great communal experience. All the members and staff were friendly. Various types of community service, from weed-pulling to using power tools to make a picket fence. Similar to People to People's programs, but slightly less touristy. All in all, a great experience.