Safety Guidelines for Volunteers
Your safety matters most. Follow these guidelines before, during, and after your volunteer placement to ensure a safe and rewarding experience.
Before You Go
Research Your Host
Read reviews from past volunteers, verify the organization is approved on GBA, and look up their online presence. Ask questions before committing.
Get Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and emergency evacuations. This is essential, not optional.
Share Your Itinerary
Give a trusted friend or family member your full travel itinerary, host contact details, and check-in schedule. Register with your country's embassy if available.
Know Local Emergency Numbers
Research the emergency phone numbers for your destination country. Save them in your phone before you travel.
During Your Stay
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels wrong, it probably is. You are never obligated to stay in a situation that makes you uncomfortable. Leave immediately if you feel unsafe.
Keep Documents Safe
Store your passport, insurance documents, and emergency funds in a secure location. Keep digital copies in a cloud service you can access from anywhere.
Stay In Touch
Maintain regular contact with friends or family back home. Set up a check-in schedule and stick to it. Let someone know if your plans change.
Know Your Rights
Volunteers should never be asked to pay unexpected fees, surrender their passport, or work in conditions that differ significantly from what was advertised.
Emergency Steps
Contact Local Authorities
Call local emergency services immediately. Dial 112 (international) or the local emergency number. For medical emergencies, go to the nearest hospital.
Report on GBA
Log into your dashboard and submit a report. Use the report button on any opportunity page, or navigate to Dashboard → Reports. This helps us take action and protect future volunteers.
Email info@givebackabroad.org
Send an email to info@givebackabroad.org with the subject "URGENT: Emergency Support". Include your name, location, host organization, and a description of the situation.
Need Immediate Help?
If you're currently in an emergency situation, visit our Emergency Support page for detailed steps and direct contact options.
Go to Emergency SupportGBA's Commitment to Safety
Give Back Abroad is committed to the safety and well-being of every volunteer. We vet all host organizations through our 11-point ethical matching process, maintain a zero-fee policy, and actively monitor reports to ensure hosts meet our standards. We believe volunteering should be transformative — not dangerous.
If you have suggestions for improving our safety practices, email us at info@givebackabroad.org.