Volunteer Abroad for Disaster Relief Projects

How to Find Ways to Volunteer in Disaster Relief

When a calamity strikes, do you see yourself parachuting down from the sky to a camp of people who have lost everything? Just like a superhero – supplies in one hand, selfie-stick in the other?

If so, disaster relief volunteering isn’t for you.

Other types of volunteer trips may be a good opportunity to travel, see the sights, and live out the summer. But disaster relief is a whole separate category of volunteer work.

In the aftermath of a natural disaster, the environment changes dramatically — especially in countries with minimal disaster preparedness. You could walk into a former tourist destination that now looks like a war zone and find yourself in a situation filled with desolation, fear, and anger.

Those who sign up for volunteering with disaster relief programs or refugee relief must have a clear idea of what they’re getting into.

Before You Go: How to Prepare

Here are some essential steps before going to assist at a disaster relief site:

• Learn about the local culture and language. Understanding social norms and communication helps you integrate smoothly.

• Enroll in a first-aid course. You may be the first responder in some situations.

• Educate yourself about humanitarian work. Workshops, online courses, or academic programs can provide valuable insights.

• Update your passport, vaccinations, and travel insurance. Emergencies require you to be fully prepared.

• Pack light, leave ego behind. Excess gadgets, cultural hang-ups, or assumptions can hinder your ability to help.

• Prepare emotionally. You may hear heart-wrenching stories or witness traumatizing scenes. Speak to experienced volunteers about their experiences to help set expectations.

How Can Volunteers With No Experience Help During a Disaster Relief Operation?

“If you’re new in the area, come ready to do anything,” says Jo, a Canadian volunteer who spearheaded disaster relief projects during the Haiyan typhoon in the Philippines. “Don’t assume that because you’re from a more developed country that you know better than the locals. Add value by asking how you can help rather than trying to assign yourself a certain task.”

Even if you’re in high school, college, or otherwise have no disaster response training, there are many ways to volunteer abroad:

1. Help with Medical Care and Support Teams

While medical professionals are essential, many programs welcome volunteers to assist support teams, help organize supplies, or provide logistical support. The most well known organization is the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Volunteers work worldwide to assist with emergency response, disaster preparedness, first aid, and community support in more than 180 countries.

2. Construction Volunteer Programs

Displaced communities urgently need temporary shelters, schools, and community facilities. Construction volunteer programs provide not only temporary shelters but also a sense of safety and belonging.

GoEco, a top-rated volunteer abroad organization, is involved in disaster relief efforts. For example, GoEco’s Kandy Community Construction & Renovation program in Sri Lanka focuses on repairing and rebuilding community structures damaged by the 2025 floods. Volunteers help with painting, cleaning, and light renovation in temples, schools, and community centers. No prior construction experience is required, and accommodations and meals are provided on-site.

They also have a great construction and rebuilding initiative in Nepal (from $930 for two weeks). Enhance your craftsmanship skills as you rebuild properties and buildings for communities that were affected by the 2015 earthquake. Tasks include mixing cement, painting, building walls, and removing broken structures. You can truly see your impact right away.

Projects Abroad runs volunteer programs in many under‑resourced countries, including building, reconstruction, and community support projects, which some are tied to post‑natural disaster recovery. For example, in Nepal, they have a construction project where participants rebuild classrooms and toilets that were damaged in major earthquakes, giving children safer places to learn.

Global Vision International offers on-site and post-earthquake support to affected families. They have rebuilt learning centers, repaired temples and re-constructed community centers in Nepal and other countries. Projects Abroad also offers volunteer opportunities for anyone looking to build in Ghana, Tanzania, Nepal, the Philippines, and Jamaica. You’ll help build important infrastructure like homes, playgrounds, and toilets. The work you do will help improve quality of life for those living in challenging conditions.

3. Child Care Volunteering

Temporary camps often accommodate children affected by disasters. Volunteers can help with playing, reading, arts, and other activities to ease trauma. Involvement Volunteers International, IVI, a non‑profit volunteer organization established in 1989, partners with local organizations to place volunteers in a wide range of project types worldwide, is also involved in disaster relief programs in Greece, and Turkey. In Turkey, volunteers assist with childcare, informal education, recreational activities, and psychosocial support, helping create safe, structured environments for children affected by trauma. 

Also, check out IVI’s  humanitarian aid programs in numerous countries that are focused on reducing suffering, distributing aid supplies, and supporting regions in after disasters.

4. Help Prep and Serve Food

If you enjoy cooking, disaster relief operations often need help with preparing and distributing meals for both victims and relief teams. GoEco’s Barcelona Food Rescue and Community Empowerment in Spain, supports communities recovering from social and economic crises, including migrant and refugee populations affected by displacement or financial hardship. You can help collect and distribute surplus food to families in need.

More Tips for Traveling

Be Aware of the Importance of Self-care

This isn’t about putting yourself first, but making sure you are physically fit to be in these situations. Don’t push yourself to the point of burnout.

“Drink clean water, eat, sleep,” suggests Gaby, who has spent four years volunteering in India. “It can feel overwhelming, but we’re no good half dead.”

Contribute to the Country’s Recovery By Traveling There

Now that you are familiar with the country on a deep and personal level, make a point to visit again. You could embark on an English teaching trip in countries affected. Or get in touch with Maximo Nivel – they offer TEFL certification courses which you can then use professionally when you teach English later on. This way, you do your part to contribute to the country’s recovery and economic growth.

Travel That Truly Connects

Yes, volunteer abroad programs in disaster zones can be highly unpredictable, and even dangerous. But if it’s right for you, it may just be one of the most worthwhile causes you ever volunteered for abroad.

When total strangers come together to help each other in desperate circumstances, miracles happen. The simplest acts of kindness become the very means and reasons for survival. And chances are, a trip like this will change your life.

Ready to Travel?

If you’re up for the challenge, sign up for an account on Volunteer Forever today. We’ll help equip you with the tools you need to discover, plan and fundraise for your next volunteer journey. For more ideas on the best volunteer abroad programs, read these articles next:

2017 Best Volunteer Abroad Organizations and Projects

Medical Volunteer Programs for Doctors, Nurses, Pre-Med Students

10 Fatal Mistakes that Every First-Time Volunteer Must Avoid