There are numerous volunteer and service travel opportunities available in the United States. Whether you're interested in environmental conservation, community development, disaster relief, or other areas, you can find meaningful ways to contribute your time and skills.

Here are a few organizations and programs that offer volunteer and service travel opportunities in the USA:

01. Habitat for Humanity:

Habitat for Humanity organizes volunteer trips called "Global Village" that allow individuals to assist in building homes for those in need. They have projects in various states across the country.

Habitat for Humanity is a well-known nonprofit organization that focuses on providing affordable housing solutions for people in need. They offer volunteer and service travel opportunities that allow individuals to contribute to their mission and make a positive impact in communities around the world.

Here are some details about volunteer and service travel opportunities with Habitat for Humanity:

• Home Construction: Habitat for Humanity is primarily known for its home construction projects. They engage volunteers to build affordable houses for families in need. These projects involve various tasks, including foundation work, framing, roofing, electrical and plumbing installations, and finishing touches. Volunteers work alongside Habitat staff and partner families to create safe and decent homes.
• Older Adults' Home Repair: In addition to new home construction, Habitat for Humanity also focuses on repairing and improving existing homes, particularly for older adults. They offer services such as accessibility modifications, critical repairs, weatherization, and energy-efficient upgrades. These initiatives aim to ensure that older adults can age in place and live in safe, comfortable environments.
• Revitalizing Communities: Habitat for Humanity recognizes the importance of community revitalization. In addition to individual home projects, they work to improve entire neighborhoods through initiatives like community clean-ups, landscaping, painting, and infrastructure development. These efforts contribute to creating vibrant and sustainable communities.
• Disaster Response: Habitat for Humanity plays a crucial role in disaster response and recovery efforts. When natural disasters strike, they mobilize volunteers and resources to assist affected communities. Their disaster response programs involve emergency shelter construction, home repairs, debris removal, and long-term recovery planning. By providing housing assistance, they help families rebuild their lives after experiencing devastating events.
• Innovation: Habitat for Humanity embraces innovation to address housing challenges effectively. They explore new technologies, construction techniques, and sustainable building practices. They also collaborate with partners and communities to find innovative solutions that make housing more affordable, resilient, and environmentally friendly.
• Impact and Stories: Habitat for Humanity shares stories and testimonies of the families they've served and the impact their programs have made. These stories highlight the transformative power of safe and decent housing, showcasing how it improves lives, educations, health, and overall well-being. You can find inspiring stories on their website, social media channels, and publications.
• Where We Work: Habitat for Humanity operates globally, with a presence in numerous countries around the world. They have local affiliates and partnerships that allow them to carry out their mission at the community level. The specific locations where they work vary, and you can find information about their active projects and locations on their website.
• Live Stream Events: Habitat for Humanity occasionally hosts live stream events to engage with their supporters, volunteers, and the general public. These events can include virtual tours of construction sites, panel discussions on housing-related topics, updates on ongoing projects, and interactive Q&A sessions. Keep an eye on their website and social media platforms for announcements regarding upcoming live stream events.

Contact Global Village:

Email: gv@habitat.org
Phone: 1-800-HABITAT

Mailing address:

Global Village, Habitat for Humanity International
322 West Lamar Street 
Americus, Georgia 31709-3543 USA

02. American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross offers various volunteer and service travel opportunities for individuals who are interested in making a difference and helping others. While my knowledge is based on information available until September 2021, I can provide you with some general information about the American Red Cross and its volunteer programs. I recommend visiting their official website or contacting the organization directly for the most up-to-date information on current opportunities.

• Disaster Response and Recovery: The American Red Cross is known for its disaster response efforts. Volunteers can be involved in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery activities. This may include providing shelter, distributing emergency supplies, offering emotional support, or assisting with logistics.
• Blood Services: The Red Cross is responsible for collecting and distributing a significant portion of the nation's blood supply. Volunteers can support blood drives by helping with donor registration, providing information to donors, or assisting in canteens.
• Health and Safety Training: The American Red Cross provides training courses in first aid, CPR, AED, and other health and safety topics. Volunteers can become certified instructors and teach these courses to individuals and communities.
• Service to the Armed Forces: The Red Cross supports military families by delivering emergency messages, providing support during deployments, and offering communication services. Volunteers can assist with these services and provide a vital link between military personnel and their families.
• International Services: The American Red Cross also participates in international humanitarian efforts. Volunteers may have the opportunity to travel abroad and support disaster response, health initiatives, or other international programs.

To get involved, you can start by visiting the American Red Cross website (www.redcross.org) and exploring their volunteer page. You'll find information about the different volunteer opportunities, requirements, and the application process. Keep in mind that specific opportunities may vary depending on your location and the current needs of the organization.

03. National Park Service:

The National Park Service (NPS) offers various volunteer and service travel opportunities for individuals who want to contribute to the conservation and preservation of our national parks. These opportunities allow volunteers to work alongside park rangers and staff, assisting with a wide range of projects and programs.

Here are some volunteer and service travel opportunities with the National Park Service:

• Volunteer Programs:

  • General Volunteer: You can volunteer your time and skills in a specific national park by assisting with visitor services, trail maintenance, wildlife monitoring, and more.
  • Campground Host: Become a campground host and assist with visitor registration, campground maintenance, and providing information to park visitors.
  • Interpretive Volunteer: Help educate park visitors by providing guided tours, leading nature walks, or presenting educational programs.

• Service Corps:

  • Youth Conservation Corps (YCC): This program offers young individuals aged 15-18 the opportunity to work on various conservation projects within national parks during the summer.
  • Veterans Conservation Corps (VCC): The VCC provides veterans with the chance to serve and work on conservation projects in national parks, supporting the transition to civilian life.

• Service Travel Programs:

  • Alternative Breaks: The NPS offers alternative break programs for college students during spring, winter, and summer breaks. Participants engage in service projects while learning about park resources and environmental stewardship.
  • AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps VISTA: These national service programs provide opportunities to serve with the National Park Service for a specific duration, usually a year. Participants receive a living stipend, education award, and professional development opportunities.

To find specific volunteer and service travel opportunities with the National Park Service, you can visit the official NPS website (www.nps.gov) and navigate to the "Get Involved" or "Volunteer" section.

04. Peace Corps:

The Peace Corps is an independent agency of the United States federal government that promotes peace and friendship by sending American volunteers abroad to work in various sectors. While the Peace Corps primarily focuses on long-term volunteer assignments, there are alternative ways to engage in volunteer and service travel opportunities with the organization.

Here are a few options:

• Peace Corps Volunteer: The traditional Peace Corps program involves a 27-month commitment to living and working in a community overseas. Volunteers serve in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, environment, and community development. They receive comprehensive training and support, including language instruction, before being placed in a host country.

• Peace Corps Response: This program is designed for experienced professionals who want to contribute their skills and expertise in a shorter-term assignment. Peace Corps Response assignments typically last from three to 12 months, and volunteers work on specific projects based on the needs of the host country. These assignments often require specialized qualifications or experience.

• Peace Corps Crisis Corps: This program provides an opportunity to support disaster relief and recovery efforts. Crisis Corps volunteers work on short-term assignments ranging from three to 12 months, assisting communities affected by natural disasters, conflicts, or other emergencies. They provide immediate assistance and help with recovery and rebuilding efforts.

• Peace Corps Global Health Service Partnership: This unique program focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure and capacity in developing countries. It pairs healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and educators, with local institutions to strengthen healthcare systems. Assignments generally last one year or longer, and volunteers work alongside local healthcare professionals to provide training and support.

To participate in any of these programs, individuals must be U.S. citizens and meet specific eligibility criteria outlined by the Peace Corps. Applicants go through a rigorous selection process, including interviews and medical screenings. It's important to visit the official Peace Corps website (https://www.peacecorps.gov/) for the most up-to-date information, including available programs, application requirements, and country-specific details.

05. United Way:

United Way is a global nonprofit organization that works to improve communities by mobilizing volunteers, raising funds, and collaborating with various partners. While United Way primarily focuses on local community impact, they do offer volunteer and service travel opportunities through certain programs and initiatives. However, it's important to note that the availability and specific details of these opportunities may vary based on your location and the programs offered by your local United Way chapter.

Here are some potential ways to get involved:

• United Way Day of Action: United Way organizes an annual Day of Action, during which volunteers from around the world come together to address community needs. You can participate in various activities, such as organizing book drives, renovating community centers, conducting health fairs, and more. Check with your local United Way chapter for information on how to get involved.
• Global Corporate Leadership (GCL): United Way's Global Corporate Leadership program offers opportunities for corporate volunteers to engage in international service projects. These projects typically focus on education, health, and income-related initiatives. Companies can partner with United Way to send employee volunteers to communities in need around the world.
• Disaster Response and Recovery: During times of natural disasters and emergencies, United Way often mobilizes volunteers to support relief efforts. These opportunities may involve providing immediate assistance, such as distributing food, water, and supplies, or assisting in long-term recovery efforts like rebuilding homes and infrastructure.
• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): United Way's VITA program provides free tax preparation services to individuals and families with low to moderate incomes. You can volunteer to become a tax preparer or support staff at a local VITA site, helping people navigate the tax filing process and maximize their refunds.

To explore volunteer and service travel opportunities with United Way, start by visiting their official website and locating your local United Way chapter. They will have the most up-to-date information on available programs and initiatives. Additionally, you can reach out to them directly to inquire about specific volunteer opportunities and how you can contribute to making a difference in your community or beyond.

06. All Hands and Hearts:

All Hands and Hearts is a non-profit organization that provides volunteer and service travel opportunities to assist communities affected by natural disasters. Their mission is to address the immediate and long-term needs of disaster-affected communities through various programs and projects.

Here are some volunteer and service travel opportunities offered by All Hands and Hearts:

• Disaster Response: All Hands and Hearts deploys volunteers to areas impacted by natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires. Volunteers work on tasks like debris removal, mucking and gutting homes, cleaning and sanitizing, and rebuilding homes and schools.
• School Construction: All Hands and Hearts focuses on building or rebuilding schools in areas that have been affected by disasters. Volunteers help construct safe and resilient learning environments for children, ensuring they have access to education.
• Community Development: This program involves working with communities to support their long-term recovery and resilience-building efforts. Volunteers may participate in initiatives like infrastructure repair, community engagement, and capacity building activities.
• Volunteer Infrastructure: All Hands and Hearts also seeks volunteers with specific skills to support their operations. These roles may include project coordination, logistics, administration, and other tasks essential to running the organization's programs efficiently.

Visit the All Hands and Hearts website (https://www.allhandsandhearts.org/) to explore their current projects and apply to volunteer. 

07. Volunteers of America:

Volunteers of America (VOA) is a nonprofit organization that provides various volunteer and service travel opportunities. While my knowledge cutoff is in September 2021, I can provide you with general information about VOA and the types of volunteer programs they typically offer. It's advisable to visit their official website or contact them directly to get the most up-to-date information on their current programs and opportunities.

Volunteers of America is dedicated to helping individuals and communities in need. They operate across the United States and have a wide range of programs aimed at addressing issues such as homelessness, poverty, addiction, and veterans' needs.

As a volunteer with VOA, you may have the chance to participate in local community service projects or engage in service travel programs. These programs often involve providing assistance and support to vulnerable populations, such as homeless individuals, low-income families, seniors, and veterans.

Service travel opportunities with Volunteers of America can vary depending on the specific needs and programs in different regions. They may include activities like:

• Homeless shelter assistance: Volunteers can help in shelters by serving meals, organizing donations, providing basic necessities, or offering companionship to those experiencing homelessness.
• Community outreach: This may involve participating in outreach events, distributing essential supplies, providing information about available services, or engaging in community development projects.
• Disaster relief: Volunteers can assist in disaster-affected areas, providing aid and support to affected communities during times of crisis.
• Youth mentoring and education: Opportunities to mentor or tutor children and youth may be available, helping them with academic support, life skills development, and positive role modeling.
• Elderly care: Volunteers can engage in activities at senior centers, nursing homes, or assisted living facilities, such as companionship, organizing recreational activities, or providing assistance with daily tasks.
• Veterans support: VOA often runs programs to support veterans, such as organizing events, assisting with job training, and providing housing support.

08. Sierra Club:

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the Sierra Club is a well-known environmental organization that offers volunteer and service travel opportunities for individuals interested in conservation and outdoor activities. They provide various programs and initiatives that allow volunteers to make a positive impact on the environment while exploring and enjoying natural spaces.

Here are a few examples of volunteer and service travel opportunities with the Sierra Club:

• Service Outings: The Sierra Club organizes service outings where volunteers work on conservation projects such as trail maintenance, habitat restoration, tree planting, and invasive species removal. These outings can take place in national parks, wilderness areas, and other scenic locations.
• Inner City Outings: This program focuses on providing outdoor experiences for urban youth who may not have regular access to nature. Volunteers lead trips and activities like hiking, camping, and kayaking, introducing young people to environmental education and outdoor recreation.
• Volunteer Vacations: Sierra Club offers volunteer vacations where participants spend a week or more working on environmental projects in national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges. These trips combine hands-on conservation work with opportunities to explore and appreciate the natural surroundings.
• Trail Crews: The organization has trail crews that work on building and maintaining hiking trails in collaboration with land management agencies. Volunteers on trail crews gain valuable skills in trail construction and restoration while enjoying the outdoors.
• Global Adventures: The Sierra Club also offers international travel opportunities for volunteers interested in exploring and conserving natural and cultural sites around the world. These trips often involve working on community-led conservation projects and engaging in cross-cultural exchanges.

09. Big Brothers Big Sisters:

Big Brothers Big Sisters is a well-known nonprofit organization that provides mentoring programs for children and youth. While they primarily focus on matching adult mentors with young individuals in their local communities, they may not offer specific volunteer or service travel opportunities.

However, there are alternative ways you can support their mission. Here are a few suggestions:

• Local mentoring: Contact your local Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter and inquire about becoming a mentor. They will provide you with information on their mentoring programs and the process for getting involved. Mentoring can be a highly rewarding experience, as you'll have the opportunity to make a positive impact on a child's life.
• Fundraising and awareness campaigns: Many nonprofit organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, rely on fundraising events and campaigns to support their programs. You can volunteer your time and skills to help organize and promote these activities. This might involve planning events, soliciting donations, or spreading the word about the organization's mission through social media or other channels.
• Community outreach and advocacy: Support Big Brothers Big Sisters by becoming an advocate for their cause. Raise awareness about the importance of mentoring and the organization's work in your community. You can speak at local events, engage with schools and community centers, or collaborate with other organizations to create partnerships and expand their reach.
• Donations: Financial contributions play a crucial role in sustaining the programs of nonprofits like Big Brothers Big Sisters. Consider making a monetary donation to support their initiatives. You can also donate items like books, school supplies, or sports equipment that could benefit the children in their programs.

10. Global Vision International (GVI):

Global Vision International (GVI) offers a range of volunteer and service travel opportunities for individuals interested in making a positive impact while exploring the world. GVI is a well-established organization that partners with local communities and conservation projects in various countries to address critical social and environmental issues.

Here are some examples of the volunteer and service travel opportunities offered by GVI:

• Conservation Projects: GVI provides opportunities to work on conservation projects aimed at protecting and preserving biodiversity and ecosystems. This can include marine conservation, wildlife research and rehabilitation, forest conservation, and environmental education initiatives.
• Community Development: GVI focuses on community-based projects that aim to improve the quality of life for local communities. This can involve teaching English, supporting sustainable development initiatives, working on construction projects, or assisting with healthcare and childcare programs.
• Teaching and Education: GVI offers volunteer programs that involve teaching and educational support in underserved communities. Volunteers can work as teaching assistants, provide one-on-one tutoring, or contribute to the development of educational resources.
• Animal Care and Rehabilitation: GVI partners with animal sanctuaries and rehabilitation centers to provide care for rescued and endangered animals. Volunteers can help with animal feeding, cleaning enclosures, and assisting with the rehabilitation process.
• Research Expeditions: GVI organizes research expeditions in collaboration with scientific organizations. These expeditions offer volunteers the opportunity to contribute to field research in areas such as marine biology, wildlife conservation, or climate change studies.
• Healthcare and Medical Programs: GVI facilitates volunteer placements in healthcare settings, allowing participants to gain experience and provide assistance in areas such as public health, medical clinics, or community outreach programs.

The United States offers a plethora of volunteer and service travel opportunities for individuals seeking meaningful ways to contribute to society. From organizations like Habitat for Humanity and American Red Cross that focus on disaster response and housing, to the National Park Service and Sierra Club that emphasize environmental conservation, there are diverse avenues to make a difference. Additionally, programs such as Peace Corps, United Way, and Big Brothers Big Sisters provide avenues for community development and mentorship.

Whether you're interested in disaster relief, education, environmental preservation, or other areas, there are numerous organizations and local chapters throughout the country that offer volunteer opportunities. Engaging in these activities not only allows individuals to contribute their time and skills, but also provides an opportunity for personal growth, cultural exchange, and building connections with communities. By participating in volunteer and service travel opportunities, individuals can make a positive impact and create lasting change in the United States.