VOLUNTEER IN VIETNAM

Its unique geographic shape (resembling a rising Asian dragon), breathtaking natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and resilient people make Vietnam a fascinating country to explore. Descendants of the Mongols from China and migrants from Indonesia, the Vietnamese were ruled by foreign imperialists for hundreds of years before finally achieving unified independence under a Communist regime in the 1970s, and the culture reflects a unique blend of the Chinese, Japanese, French, and American colonial influences. Traditional Vietnamese culture focuses heavily on family and community and celebrates a long artistic heritage including water puppetry, calligraphy, and innovative cuisine, as well as music, dance, and architecture.

Years of isolation and inefficiency led to substantial economic reforms in the late 1980s that have gone a long way to accelerating the growth of the economy and improved the general standards of education, healthcare, and living. However, Vietnam has a long way to go before it catches up with many of its neighbors in Southeast Asia. Though Vietnam is now considered a “middle-income country” about 70% of the population still lives in remote, rural areas with little public infrastructure. Our service work in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a fantastic introduction to all of the ethnic, cultural, and economic diversity of this geographic wonder that is Vietnam.

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Expand your horizons. Give back while taking in the world from a new perspective. There are as many reasons to adventure as there are destinations to explore. Check out these upcoming service travel adventures.

what you will remember …

the artistry

There is so much to take in — from the natural beauty of the World Heritage sites to the peaceful gardens and royal palaces, in the everyday artistry of the colorful cuisine and intricate craftsmanship and the exotic exuberance of the traditional festivals. The Vietnam tradition is one of careful artistry and attention to detail only rivaled by the geographic beauty of its landscapes.

the smiles

Vietnamese are universally friendly! Polite and considerate to a tee, they are also welcoming and enthusiastic in embracing visitors to their country. Vietnamese are eager to share the beauty of their country and to learn about the world beyond. You will be greeted by smiles wherever you travel and it is those brilliant smiles that will remain in your memories.

your impact

At once both fast-developing and still underdeveloped, Vietnam lacks much of the infrastructure many of us take for granted and young people are some of the most impacted. Orphanages are commonplace and many of our projects find us working to support these children, greatly in need of love and attention. You will quickly grow attached to these young children whose futures you will make brighter.

vietnam service projects

Projects are based on community needs and vary from trip to trip. Here are examples from recent trips.

Making a friend at the orphanage
Sharing treats at a local school

Testimonials

“It has given me hope for the future. Before coming on this trip, I felt that there wasn’t more I could do to help my community. This trip has changed my mind. I have hope again and I feel fulfilled..“

Carolina

Student Volunteer

“This experience has re-inspired me to create change that relates to my passions. It has also given me a lot of hope that I had lost over the course of the pandemic. Overall this is an experience that will impact me for the rest of my life.”

Olivia

Student Volunteer

“This was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. It was amazing to be immersed in the culture and meet such wonderful people. Everyone was so kind and welcoming. It was also great to know that I was making an impact on something important.“

Pierce

Student Volunteer

Let’s talk… We’d love to find a way to collaborate!