We are thrilled to announce that International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) has been selected as a finalist in two prestigious categories at the 2025 GoAbroad Innovation Awards:
1. Innovation in Study Abroad
2. Innovation with Community College
This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to making transformative international experiences accessible, affordable, and impactful for students from all backgrounds.
Finalist: Innovation in Study Abroad
Global Changemakers Program: Increasing Access to Education Abroad
Launched on June 1, 2024, the Global Changemakers Program was created in partnership with the Centre for Global Citizenship Studies and Warren Wilson College to address the barriers that prevent many students - particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds - from studying abroad. Traditional study abroad programs often come with high costs, rigid academic calendars, and logistical challenges that can be prohibitive for many.
Our solution: a flexible, affordable alternative that combines asynchronous online coursework with immersive international volunteer experiences.
Key features of the Global Changemakers Program include:
- Affordable Access: Earn up to 16 US academic credits over 12 weeks in one of 40+ destinations worldwide for $5,500 USD or less-significantly lower than the $20,000+ price tag of many traditional programs.
- Comprehensive Support: Our local teams provide in-country support, orientation, and resources to ensure all students, especially first-time travelers, feel safe and prepared.
- Flexible and Inclusive: With year-round start dates, customizable durations, and a wide selection of volunteer projects, students can tailor their - experience to their academic and personal goals.
- All-Inclusive Pricing: Program fees cover course and transcript fees, accommodation, volunteer placements, meals, airport pick-up, and orientation.
By integrating meaningful community engagement with academic credit, the Global Changemakers Program is breaking down barriers and opening doors for a new generation of globally minded students.
Finalist: Innovation with Community College
Expanding Access to Study Abroad for Community College Students
This award celebrates providers and institutions that create inclusive and accessible study abroad opportunities for community college students. We dedicate this recognition to the memory of Dr. Danielle Heard Mollel, whose tireless work expanded global education opportunities for students, particularly in Africa.
Our partnership with Mott Community College (MCC) exemplifies this commitment. Supported by the U.S. Department of State’s IDEAS Grant, MCC and IVHQ have:
- Broadened Program Access: Previously, MCC’s study abroad programs were limited and non-credit bearing. With new funding and support, MCC now offers credit-bearing programs open to students from a range of disciplines.
- Faculty-Led Innovation: Since 2023, MCC faculty from teaching, conservation, business, and modern languages have led interdisciplinary student groups to Costa Rica, Jamaica, and the Galapagos Islands, with plans to expand further.
- Comprehensive Student Support: Our collaborative model ensures robust pre-departure training, in-country support, and tailored programming to meet the needs of diverse student populations.
By working together, we are making global education a reality for community college students who have traditionally been underserved in international programming.
Our Commitment
Being named a finalist in these two categories is a testament to the dedication of our partners, staff, and the thousands of students who have chosen to make a difference through IVHQ. We remain committed to our mission: to make meaningful international experiences accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstance.
The Go Abroad Innovation Awards are taking place at this year’s NAFSA conference in San Diego on 30th May 2025 and showcases the best in innovation, originality, creativity, and exceptional ideas in international education.
Thank you to GoAbroad for this recognition, and congratulations to all fellow finalists who are driving innovation and inclusion in global education.
For more information about our programs and how you can get involved, visit our Study Abroad page or Academic Credit page.
